The Top 5 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Immediate Attention

Are you aware that your water heater is the silent MVP of your household?

It's not flashy, loud, or demanding (until it is). But every time you step into a warm shower, wash your dishes, or do a load of laundry, it's working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly.

So, what happens when that trusty tank starts acting up? You might not notice it at first. Maybe the water takes a little longer to heat, or there's a strange noise you can’t quite place.

And then one day… boom.

You're mid-shampoo in an ice-cold shower, wondering what went wrong.

The truth is that water heater issues rarely appear overnight. The signs are usually there — they’re just easy to ignore until they become urgent (and expensive).

The good news? Catching the warning signs early can save you time, stress, and thousands in water damage or emergency repairs.

So, how do you know when your water heater is crying out for help?

Here are the top five signs your water heater needs immediate attention — and what to do about them.

1. Your Hot Water Smells Funky or Looks Rusty

Are any smells coming out of your faucet ever pleasant?

Should you ever see your water look anything but clear? Obviously not!

If the water coming out of your tap smells like rotten eggs or has a brownish tint, then it's definitely time to start paying attention.

• What to Look For: Discolored water coming from your hot water taps, metallic or sulfur-like odors, and staining in sinks, tubs, or laundry.  

Why It’s a Problem

Rusty or smelly hot water is usually a sign of bacteria buildup or corrosion inside your tank. It could mean your anode rod — a crucial component that prevents the tank from rusting — is shot.

Left untreated, corrosion can eat through the tank itself, leading to leaks, contamination, or full system failure.

How We’ll Fix It

At Onyx Plumbing & Gas, we’ll inspect your anode rod and flush the system if bacterial buildup is present. If corrosion is widespread, we’ll help you weigh the cost of a repair versus a full replacement.

Either way, we’ll make sure your hot water is clean, safe, and reliable.

2. Unusual Noises from the Tank

A quiet rumble might seem harmless — until it starts sounding more like a popcorn machine in your utility closet.

Noise is something that should not only ever be ignored; it should be inspected as soon as possible.

• What to Listen For: Rumbling or banging noises, popping or crackling sounds, loud humming from the tank

Why It’s a Problem

Those sounds usually mean sediment has built up at the bottom of your tank. When your water heater heats up, the sediment hardens, causing overheating and loud pops as steam bubbles through.

Over time, this can overwork the system, reduce efficiency, and even lead to tank cracks or leaks.

How We’ll Fix It

A licensed plumber can flush your water heater to remove the sediment buildup and check for internal damage. In some cases, installing a water softener can help prevent future issues.

The goal is to restore your water heater’s efficiency and prevent long-term damage to the system.

3. Inconsistent Water Temperature (Or No Hot Water at All)

Nothing says “good morning” quite like an icy surprise in the shower!

But fluctuating temperatures are more than just annoying. They’re a sign that something’s up with your water heater system.

• What to Watch For: Water gets hot, then suddenly cold, water takes a long time to reheat between uses, or no hot water comes out at all.

Why It’s a Problem

This often points to a failing heating element, thermostat issues, or an undersized tank that can’t meet your household’s demands. Ignoring it not only disrupts your daily routine but can strain your plumbing system — and your patience.

How We’ll Fix It

We’ll test the thermostat and heating elements to determine the source of the issue. If your tank is too small for your household size, we might recommend upgrading to a larger or tankless water heater for more consistent performance.

4. Water Leaks Around the Tank

See a small puddle under the tank? Don’t just mop it up and hope for the best!

Leaks of any size or magnitude should be inspected and addressed quickly to avoid potential flooding.

• What to Look For: Pooling water near the base of the heater, damp walls or floors around the unit, or corrosion or rust on connections or valves.  

Why It’s a Problem

Leaks can be caused by pressure build-up, cracked fittings, or internal corrosion. Even small leaks can escalate quickly, damaging floors, drywall, or nearby appliances — and mold growth is never far behind.

How We’ll Fix It

Our expert team will locate the source of the leak and repair or replace the affected components. If the tank itself is compromised, we’ll help you find an energy-efficient replacement before the problem becomes a full-blown flood.

5. Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old

Let’s face it: Your water heater doesn’t last forever.

If it's over a decade old, it's living on borrowed time, and even if it seems to be working just fine, too much mileage on any water heater system is due for a replacement.

• What to Look For: Age of the unit (check the serial number on the label), higher utility bills, recurring problems, or frequent repairs.

Why It’s a Problem

Older units are less efficient, more prone to breakdowns, and can become a liability if they fail unexpectedly. A sudden rupture can flood your basement or utility room, leading to expensive water damage and emergency repairs.

How We’ll Fix It

We’ll assess your unit’s age, condition, and energy use to determine whether a repair or replacement makes more sense. If a new unit is the best option, we’ll walk you through modern tank and tankless models that are more efficient, space-saving, and better suited to your needs.

Time to Call the Pros? Onyx Plumbing & Gas Has Your Back

If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait until you’re left without hot water — or worse, with a flooded basement.

At Onyx Plumbing & Gas, we specialize in comprehensive water heater inspections, repairs, and replacements that keep your home comfortable and your plumbing system protected. We serve St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, and surrounding Twin Cities suburbs with expert service and honest solutions.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a certified plumber at Onyx Plumbing & Gas. Let’s bring the comfort, and hot water, back to your home!