Water heaters play a vital role in our daily routines, from providing us with a refreshing morning shower to washing our dishes after a family meal. But what happens when your water heater starts to falter? Many homeowners in our Sarasota community might not realize that their water heaters are struggling until they’re faced with a cold shower.
At Veteran Air, we believe in proactive measures. It’s important to recognize the signs of a struggling water heater before it completely breaks down. Let’s dive into some of these indicators so you can be prepared to know when it’s time to call our pros.

Recognizing the Signs of a Water Heater in Trouble
Water heaters, like any other home appliance, have a limited lifespan. Over time, they can exhibit signs of wear and tear, signaling a need for repair or replacement. Identifying these symptoms early can help avoid major inconveniences.
Here are some key signs that your water heater might be struggling:
- Unusual noises
- Fluctuating or insufficient hot water
- Murky or discolored water
- Leaks around the heater
When Your Water Heater Gets Noisy
Water heaters are typically quiet, so any unusual noises coming from the unit can be a cause for concern.
Sounds of rumbling, popping, or cracking often indicate a buildup of sediment in the tank.
As the sediment hardens, it can cause your heater to work overtime, leading to wear and tear.
However, if your unit is making a humming noise, it could be due to a loose heating element. Is your water heater making other scary noises? Give us a call!
Maintaining Steady Hot Water Supply
If you seem to be running out of hot water quickly whether it’s while you’re showering or doing dishes, several things could be the culprit.
A few possibilities:
- Your water heater is reaching the end of its lifespan
- There’s too much sediment build-up
- Your tank is too small for your household’s needs
- You have a broken heating element or thermostat issue
Dealing with Murky or Discolored Water
If you find that your water is discolored or has a strange odor it may be due to rust, corrosion, or a buildup of minerals inside the tank.
You must take immediate action because water in such conditions is not safe for cooking or drinking and puts your health at risk.

Addressing Water Heater Leaks
Leaks around your water heater can signal serious problems. A leak might be due to a faulty valve or even a crack in the tank itself. Either way, ignoring a leak can lead to significant water damage and an increased utility bill.
If you spot a puddle, condensation, or drips on or around your heater, it’s time to call Veteran Air for an assessment.
Is Your Water Heater Struggling? Reach Out to Veteran Air!
It’s necessary to keep an eye on the performance of your water heater. Keep in mind that addressing possible problems early on can prevent inconvenient breakdowns, expensive water damage, and safety risks. Don’t delay until you find yourself in an unpleasant situation like taking a cold shower!
At Veteran Air, we are dedicated to providing top-notch HVAC and plumbing services. Our experienced team can diagnose and address your water heater concerns, ensuring that you can have proper hot water for all your daily needs.
Let us take care of your home – contact us today.