Signs You Need a Water Heater Replacement

A gas or electric tank lasts 8–12 years. Once these signs appear, replacement is cheaper than the coming leak.

Common causes

• Sediment buildup at the tank bottom
• Anode rod fully consumed
• Corroded steel tank body
• Failing thermostat or heating element

Step-by-step

1. 01Check the manufacturing date sticker — anything past 10 years is on borrowed time
2. 02Look for rust-colored hot water at the tap (tank interior corroding)
3. 03Listen for popping or rumbling (sediment cooking against the burner)
4. 04Feel around the base for damp or corroded fittings

When to call Northbridge

• Water pooling under the tank
• No hot water or lukewarm only
• Rusty water from hot side only
• Tank is 10+ years old and running slow