Several warning signs indicate your water heater needs attention before it fails completely. If your water isn’t getting hot enough, takes longer to heat up, or the temperature fluctuates unpredictably, there’s likely an issue with heating elements, thermostats, or gas components.
Strange noises like popping, crackling, or rumbling sounds often mean sediment has built up in the tank, which reduces efficiency and can cause damage. Rusty or discolored water, especially when it first comes out of the tap, suggests internal corrosion or sediment problems.
Visible signs like water pooling around the base, rust on the tank exterior, or a rotten egg smell from hot water taps all require immediate professional attention. In Mather’s climate, these problems can develop quickly due to mineral-heavy water and temperature fluctuations, so addressing them early saves money and prevents complete system failure.