Last Updated: February 25, 2026 — Reviewed by Brian Hayes, Licensed Master Plumber
Water heaters normally last from 10 to 15 years before they would need replacement. But if you notice corrosion or if any of the internal parts are encased in mineral buildup, your water heater may not be as efficient. Flushing the water heater regularly would keep it working for a longer time.
You do not need to guess anything, though. There are some telltale signs that will alert you if it’s time you find a new water heater before your current one completely fails. Here are some of them:
- If there is no hot water, you can try checking for power. It is true that no hot water is a sure sign that the water heater is failing, but it could also mean the pilot light is out or perhaps the circuit breaker has tripped.
- If rusty water comes out of your hot faucet, it’s not a good sign at all. This usually signals an upcoming failure of your water heater.
- If there is a noticeable increase in sediment or if there are signs of muddy water in your water tank, you should worry. How do you check this? Attach a hose to the drainage bib of your water heater and make sure the unit is turned off. Drain it so you can examine its contents properly.
- If you smell and taste the water and you notice that it has a metallic taste to it, then that is an indicative that your water heater will be breaking down real soon.
- If you notice noises that were not there before, that is a warning sign, too. You have to pay attention to any noise that your water heater makes. There are those normal sounds when water heats and then there are loud pops and cracks which you would not hear from a properly working water heater. Those sounds indicate that there is an interaction between the heating elements and the scale as well as the mineral deposits that have been building up on them.
- If you see any sign of leaking water around your water heater, especially when none has ever leaked before, you should take immediate action. What you should do is to disconnect the equipment from its source of electricity or turn off the gas. Make sure the water has cooled down before trying to remove it and replacing the water heater. Leaks indicate internal failure in your water heater.
These are just some of the signs that your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. If you notice any of these problems, you can always give Hayes Plumbing a call and we’d be more than happy to repair your water heater or even replace it if need be.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call a plumber for water heater?
You should call a licensed plumber for water heater when the issue persists after basic troubleshooting, involves water pressure changes, or requires access to pipes behind walls. Hayes Plumbing serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering.
How much does water heater cost in Durham Region?
The cost of water heater in Durham Region depends on the complexity of the job and parts required. Hayes Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work so there are no surprises.
Should I try DIY or hire a professional for water heater?
While minor issues can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, water heater often requires a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets Ontario plumbing code. Hayes Plumbing is fully licensed, WSIB certified, and BBB accredited.
Need help with plumbing repairs or installations? Hayes Plumbing & Bathroom Renovations serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering. Contact us or call (905) 576-3043 for a free estimate.
