How often you should flush your water heater depends on your water quality. If you have hard water or notice popping and rumbling noises, flushing every 6 months helps clear out sediment buildup. Homes with a water softener and minimal sediment can typically flush every 2 to 3 years, though an annual flush is still a safe habit that extends the life of your unit.

Repairing your water heater usually makes sense if it’s less than 8 to 10 years old (for a standard tank unit) and the issue is relatively minor, such as a faulty thermostat, a bad heating element, a worn pressure relief valve, a pilot light or igniter issue, or a leaking drain valve. As a rule of thumb, if the repair costs less than about 50% of a replacement, repair is the better value. Replacement is typically the right call if your tank is 10 to 15 years old or older (tankless units often last 15 to 20 years or more), if the storage tank itself is leaking, or if you’re seeing rust colored hot water, significant corrosion, frequent breakdowns, or rumbling and popping sounds from heavy sediment buildup.

Hot water that runs out fast is often caused by sediment buildup inside the tank, which reduces its effective capacity and heating efficiency. It can also mean your water heater is simply too small for your household’s demand, or that a faulty heating element or thermostat problem is preventing the unit from keeping up. A plumber can determine which of these is behind your short hot water supply and recommend the right fix.

If your water heater isn’t producing hot water, the thermostat may be set too low (120°F is the recommended setting). It’s also possible the tank is simply still recovering after a period of heavy use, such as back to back showers. A tripped breaker or power issue can be the cause too, since even gas water heaters rely on electricity for ignition and controls. A leaking water heater can also lead to a loss of hot water and typically needs professional repair or replacement.

A leaking water heater is often the result of loose plumbing connections, a faulty temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve, or a leaking drain valve. The most serious cause is a corroded tank, which usually means the unit needs to be replaced rather than repaired. If you notice water pooling around your water heater, it’s best to schedule an inspection right away to prevent water damage.