The warnings, in order
Most water heaters don't flood your basement without warning first. The signs show up weeks or months ahead. Knowing them is the difference between a planned replacement and a 2am mop job.
- •1. Rust-colored or discolored hot water — the tank's corroding inside.
- •2. Rumbling or banging when it heats — sediment buildup, straining the tank.
- •3. Hot water that runs out faster than it used to — sediment's eating the capacity.
- •4. Lukewarm water that won't get hot — failing element or burner issue.
- •5. Water pooling or dripping at the base — the tank or a fitting is leaking.
- •6. A relief valve that keeps tripping — pressure or temperature problem.
- •7. The unit's past 10–12 years — it's on borrowed time, plan for it.
Which ones mean call now
Pooling water at the base is the one that means now — that tank can let go. Discolored water and a tripping relief valve are close behind. The rest mean call this week, not this minute. Any of them, though, is the heater telling you it's not right.
Have a plumbing issue right now?
Call and leave a voicemail — Bob calls back during business hours. For the fastest reply (usually within the hour), email him directly.