7 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
Written by Emma Haygood Licensed Journeyman Plumber at Venne PlumbingHot water is something most of us don’t think twice about—until the day we step into an icy shower or notice the water just isn’t as hot as it used to be!
At Venne Plumbing, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Sherwood and surrounding communities stay comfortable and safe by keeping their water heaters running efficiently. But like any appliance, water heaters don’t last forever. Recognizing the warning signs early can save you from bigger problems (and colder mornings) down the road.
1. Inconsistent or Lukewarm Water
If you’ve noticed your showers getting cooler faster, or your water temperature fluctuates without warning, it’s a classic red flag. As a water heater ages, minerals and sediment build up inside the tank, forming a layer that blocks the heating element or burner from doing its job efficiently. You may still get some hot water, but not for long—and your system will have to work much harder to keep up.
If flushing the tank doesn’t solve the issue, it may be time to start planning for a water heater replacement.
2. Rusty or Discolored Water
When hot water starts looking rusty or has a metallic odor, it can mean one of two things: your water heater’s tank is corroding from the inside, or your home’s plumbing pipes are rusting. Either way, it’s not something to ignore. Once corrosion eats through the tank lining, leaks aren’t far behind.
As a trusted Sherwood plumber, we can help you test where the rust is coming from and determine whether your water heater or your plumbing system is the culprit.
3. Strange Noises from the Tank
A healthy water heater should operate quietly. But over time, sediment and minerals can harden inside the tank and create popping, banging, or rumbling sounds as the unit heats up. Those sounds aren’t just annoying—they’re signs your heater is struggling. This extra strain not only reduces efficiency but can also crack the tank lining or overheat the system.
If you hear unusual noises, don’t wait until the water heater fails completely. A quick inspection from a professional can save you money and stress.
4. Leaks or Moisture Around the Tank
Any visible water pooling around the base of your heater is a clear warning sign. While small leaks might come from loose connections or fittings, larger puddles often mean the tank has cracked. Unfortunately, once the inner tank itself starts leaking, repairs are rarely an option.
When we’re called to homes in Sherwood, Tualatin, or Tigard with this issue, we usually recommend a water heater replacement to prevent further damage and restore reliable hot water.
5. The Unit Is More Than 10 Years Old
Most traditional tank-style water heaters last between 8–12 years if your lucky they can last 20 years. After that point, efficiency drops, repairs become more frequent, and the risk of leaks increases. If your water heater is over a decade old and you’ve noticed any of the issues above, it’s often more cost-effective to replace it rather than continue repairing it.
We’ve helped homeowners throughout Newberg, Wilsonville, and the greater Portland area choose replacement units that fit their home size, hot water needs, and budget from high-efficiency gas models to modern tankless systems.
6. Rising Utility Bills
Even if your water still feels hot, a slow increase in your energy bills can be another clue that your water heater is struggling. When sediment buildup or aging components make the system less efficient, it must run longer and harder to maintain the same temperature. That means more energy use and higher costs for you.
Upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model can reduce monthly utility bills and help you save long-term. Some areas even have rebate programs to give back for switching to a more efficient water heater. Check with the engery trust of Oregon to see if you qualify https://www.energytrust.org/residential/incentives/water-heater
7. Frequent Repairs
Needing one small repair every few years isn’t unusual. But when you find yourself calling for service more often, the costs can quickly add up. Instead of putting more money into an aging unit, investing in a new system gives you peace of mind and often comes with a strong manufacturer’s warranty.
When It’s Time for a Replacement
At Venne Plumbing, we understand that replacing a water heater isn’t something most homeowners look forward to. Our goal is to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible. We’ll help you decide whether repair or replacement makes more sense based on your system’s age, condition, and your household’s needs.
We install and service both tank and tankless systems, and we’re always happy to walk you through the pros and cons of each. Whether you’re in Sherwood, Tualatin, Newberg, Wilsonville, Tigard, or the Portland area, you can count on our experienced team to keep your hot water running efficiently and safely.