Going without hot water is never enjoyable, especially during colder months of the year or when your AC unit is running smoothly throughout the summer. The last thing you want is to step of of a cold shower, shivering and wondering how much it costs to fix a water heater. 

Unfortunately, just like with every appliance in your home, hot water heaters are known to fail eventually. Dealing with a broken hot water heater obviously leads to cold showers, cold dishwasher water, and potentially even worse issues if there's a leak or internal damage. 

Common Causes of Hot Water Heater Damage

Internal Rust

There are rods inside your hot water heater called sacrificial anodes which are designed to keep your heater from corroding. These rods get used up instead of the metal, explaining their name, "sacrificial anodes." To prevent the metal from rusting, however, these anodes must be replaced every few years since they're consumed and no longer able to protect the metal. If they look worn down at all, they should be replaced to prevent internal rust. 

High Water Pressure and Leaks

If your home's water pressure is too high, it could do damage to your water heater, pipes, and other home appliances. Keep a lookout for any water leaking from the overflow pipe alongside your water heater and call in a professional if you ever seek leakage. That could be a sign of excessive water pressure or some other kind of internal damage or corrosion. 

Improper Installation

As is the case with any appliance in your home, improper installation can lead to faulty appliance performance and even serious damage. Be sure to only ever allow a licensed plumber to handle installation and repairs on any of your home plumbing equipment. 

System Age

If your water heater is any older than 8 to 12 years, then it could be on the brink of failure. That's the average lifespan for most water heaters, though improperly maintained units last for even less. Rust, issues with poorly heated water, leaks, and other signs of wear and tear can add up until the unit is too old and too used to be much good. 

Dealing with a continual broken hot water heater can get expensive. Replacing the unit before worse damages arise can spare you a pricey repair while also offering you a more energy-efficient appliance. 

Signs You Need a Hot Water Heater Repair

It's highly important that you keep up with proper maintenance on your water heater if you want to increase its longevity and help it to perform optimally. Your water heater tank should be flushed yearly to help remove any buildup and sediment. The anode rod should also be checked on as part of your unit's yearly maintenance service. 

Here are 8 signs that your water heater might need a repair:

1. You are able to get cold or lukewarm water, but not hot water.
2. Your water is turning rusty or muddy in color.
3. Your water tank is leaking.
4. You are unable to drain water through your appliance's drain valve.
5. Your water heater is making a rumbling noise.
6. Your water has a metallic odor or flavor. 
7. You see signs of leakage around your water heater.
8. It has been over a year since your water heater had a professional tune up.

If you're wondering how much it costs to fix a water heater, then just know that a broken hot water heater repair costs can vary depending on what's wrong with your unit. Call CroppMetcalfe to get a quote for your water heater repair. 

Signs You Need a Water Heater Replacement

It can be extremely difficult to predict when you need a water heater replacement. However, if your unit is getting old or continually having maintenance issues, it might be time to consider getting a new one. Typically, water heater replacements cost anywhere from $1000 to $1500 per heater, though costs can vary widely depending on the needs of your home. 

Our CroppMetcalfe technicians can offer you a recommendation for a heater that would best suit your home. 

Call in the Experts

Need help with your home plumbing system? CroppMetcalfe has the 5-Star Technicians who get the job done right. Call 1-800-740-6657 or schedule hot water heater service for your home online now.