Key Takeaways
- Age matters: most tanks last about 8 to 12 years.
- Rumbling usually means sediment. Rusty water can mean a corroding tank.
- A leak from the tank body means replacement, not repair.
- Thermostats, elements and gas valves are usually worth repairing.
1. It's More Than 10 Years Old
Most tank water heaters last about 8 to 12 years. Rockville's moderately hard water speeds up sediment buildup, so a tank that's never been flushed may age faster. The manufacture date is usually encoded in the serial number on the label.
2. Rumbling, Popping or Banging
Sediment on the bottom of the tank traps water that boils and pops. A flush can help on a younger heater. On an old one, it's a sign the end is near. Our guide to hard water in Rockville explains why.
3. Rusty or Discolored Hot Water
If only the hot water is rusty, the tank or anode rod may be corroding. If both hot and cold are rusty, old galvanized pipe is the more likely cause.
4. Water Around the Base
Check where it's coming from. A dripping relief valve or loose fitting can be fixed. Water from the tank body means it has rusted through, and replacement is the only fix.
If the tank is leaking, shut the cold water valve on top of the heater and turn the gas to pilot or switch off the breaker, then call.
5. Not Enough Hot Water
Running out faster than before can mean a failed heating element, a broken dip tube, sediment taking up space, or a household that's outgrown the tank.
6. Lukewarm Water or No Hot Water
On electric units, it's often a tripped high-limit switch or a failed element or thermostat. On gas units, look at the pilot, thermocouple or gas valve. These are usually repairable. Our water heater repair in Rockville covers all of them.
7. A Dripping Relief Valve
This usually means too much pressure, often from a failed or missing thermal expansion tank. It's a quick fix, but don't ignore it. The relief valve is a safety device.
Repair or Replace?
| Sign | Usually |
|---|---|
| No hot water, younger heater | Repair |
| Dripping relief valve | Repair (expansion tank or valve) |
| Rumbling, younger heater | Flush |
| Rusty hot water, older heater | Replace |
| Leak from the tank body | Replace |
| Over 10–12 years and needs a costly part | Replace |
When it's time for water heater replacement in Rockville, MD, our water heater installation team sizes the new unit, tank or tankless, and handles 24 hour replacement when a tank fails overnight. We serve Rockville, North Bethesda and Potomac.
