Water heaters don’t last forever. But most of us don’t think about them until we’re stuck with a cold shower, a leaky tank, or sky-high energy bills.
If you’re a homeowner in Wichita, KS, it’s smart to stay ahead of the problem. Replacing your water heater before it fails can save you money and a major headache. At On Time Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we help local homeowners recognize the warning signs early, and get the right fix fast.
Here are the top signs you may need a new water heater.
1. Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old
Most water heaters last between 8 and 12 years. If yours is in that age range, or older, it’s living on borrowed time.
Sure, it might still be working today. But when tanks get older, they’re more likely to leak, break down, or fail without warning. And if that happens, you’re not just replacing the heater — you could be dealing with water damage, too.
2. You’re Running Out of Hot Water Quickly
If you can’t make it through a shower without the water turning cold, your water heater may not be doing its job anymore.
Over time, sediment builds up inside the tank, leaving less room for hot water. That buildup also makes the unit less efficient, which can raise your energy bills.
3. Rusty, Cloudy, or Smelly Hot Water
When you turn on the hot water and notice a rusty tint or a metallic smell, that could be a sign your tank is corroding from the inside. It’s usually not fixable, and it’s a sign you should replace the unit before it starts leaking.
Tip: If it only happens when the hot tap is running, the issue is likely coming from the heater.
4. Loud Noises from the Water Heater
Water heaters shouldn’t rumble or bang. Those sounds usually mean sediment has hardened at the bottom of the tank.
When the water heats up, pressure builds beneath the sediment and causes the tank to shake or knock. It’s not just noisy, it’s a warning that the heater is under stress and may be close to failing.
5. Water Leaking Around the Tank
If you see water pooling at the base of your water heater, that’s a big red flag. It might be a loose valve or connection, but it could also be a cracked tank, which means it’s time to replace the unit.
Leaks don’t fix themselves. And the longer you wait, the more damage it can do.
6. Hot Water Is Too Hot… or Not Hot Enough
Temperature fluctuations usually point to a faulty thermostat or heating element. Sometimes those parts can be replaced but if your system is old, it may be more cost-effective to swap the whole unit.
Consistent water temperature is something every home should have. If your system can’t deliver, it’s time for something new.
7. Higher Energy Bills Without a Clear Reason
If your utility bills are creeping up and you haven’t changed your habits, your water heater might be the problem.
Older units lose efficiency, especially if they’re full of sediment. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient water heater can save you money every month.
8. You’ve Repaired It More Than Once This Year
One repair? That’s normal. But two or three in one year? That’s a sign your unit is breaking down more often than it should.
At that point, it’s usually smarter to replace the heater rather than keep paying for parts and service calls.
Don’t Wait for a Full Breakdown
When a water heater fails, it rarely happens at a convenient time. And if it leaks, it can damage your floors, walls, and belongings — fast.
Replacing it before that happens is the safe move.
At On Time Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we’ve helped Wichita families with water heater repairs and replacements for over 20 years. We’ll check your system, explain your options, and get your hot water back: fast, clean, and stress-free.
Call On Time Today for Fast, Honest Water Heater Service
Not sure if you need a new water heater? We’ll take a look and give you a straight answer.
Whether you need a repair or a full replacement, we’ve got you covered. Our licensed techs are on time, on your side, and always ready to help.
📞 Call On Time Plumbing at (316) 721-5055
📅 Or schedule online today
Stay warm. Stay safe. Stay on time.
