Is Your Water Heater on Its Last Legs? Here’s How to Tell — and What to Do Next
We often take hot water for granted — until we’re hit with an icy shower or a flooded garage. A failing water heater isn’t just an inconvenience; it can cause serious damage and leave your home without hot water when you need it most. At Plumbing Detectives, we specialize in water heater repair and replacement throughout Pinellas County.
Here’s how to spot the warning signs, understand your options, and know when it’s time to act.
7 Signs Your Water Heater May Be Failing
1. Fluctuating or Cold Water
If your hot water keeps turning cold or takes forever to heat up, something’s wrong with the heating element or thermostat.
2. Rusty or Discolored Water
Brown or reddish water may indicate corrosion inside the tank — especially if it only shows when using hot water.
3. Weird Noises (Banging, Rumbling)
Sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank causes banging or popping sounds during heating.
4. Leaking Around the Base
Water pooling around your heater is a serious red flag. It could mean a cracked tank or faulty valve.
5. Low Hot Water Pressure
Sediment or corrosion can clog internal components, leading to weak water flow.
6. High Utility Bills
An inefficient or failing unit may use more energy to deliver less hot water.
7. It’s Over 10 Years Old
Most traditional water heaters last 8–12 years. If yours is older, it may be time to consider replacement.
Repair vs. Replace — What’s Right for You?
After diagnosing your water heater issue, our licensed plumbers will help you decide whether to repair or replace. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Situation | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Minor thermostat or valve failure | Repair |
| Small leak from fitting or connection | Repair |
| Corrosion inside the tank | Replace |
| Major leak from the tank | Replace |
| Over 10 years old and underperforming | Replace |
| Frequent repairs in the past year | Replace |
Types of Water Heaters We Service
- Tank Water Heaters (Gas & Electric)
- Tankless Water Heaters
- Hybrid & High-Efficiency Units
We repair, replace, and install all major brands, including Rheem, Bradford White, A.O. Smith, and Navien
Why Choose Plumbing Detectives?
- Licensed and insured plumbing experts
- Upfront pricing and honest advice
- Same-day service available
- Repairs backed by warranties
- Expert installation for replacements
- We don’t push what you don’t need. We investigate the issue, explain your options, and do the job right the first time.
Serving Water Heater Needs Across Pinellas County
We proudly offer water heater services in:
Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Largo, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Safety Harbor, Oldsmar, Seminole, Pinellas Park, Gulfport, East Lake, Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Belleair, Belleair Bluffs, Belleair Beach, Belleair Shore, Redington Beach, North Redington Beach, Redington Shores, Madeira Beach, South Pasadena, Kenneth City, Treasure Island.
Zip Codes We Serve
33701, 33702, 33703, 33704, 33705, 33706, 33707, 33708, 33709, 33710, 33711, 33712, 33713, 33714, 33715, 33716, 33755, 33756, 33759, 33760, 33761, 33762, 33763, 33764, 33765, 33767, 33770, 33771, 33772, 33773, 33774, 33776, 33777, 33778, 33781, 33782, 33785, 33786, 34677, 34683, 34684, 34685, 34689, 34695, 34698.
Need Hot Water Fast? Call Plumbing Detectives
Think your home may need a new water heater or looking for a more efficient upgrade? Call Plumbing Detectives at 727-495-9065 or visit PinellasPlumber.com to schedule a free inspection and estimate.