Watch for inconsistent water temperature—water that’s too hot, not hot enough, or fluctuates during use. Strange noises like rumbling, popping, or banging usually indicate sediment buildup that needs attention.
Discolored water, especially rusty or cloudy hot water, signals internal corrosion or sediment problems. A rotten egg smell from hot water indicates bacteria growth in the tank that requires professional treatment.
Visible leaks around the unit, reduced hot water supply, or longer wait times for hot water to reach your faucets all indicate problems that will worsen without repair. The sooner you address these issues, the less expensive the fix typically is.