Every home or commercial building needs access to hot water, whether it’s for washing hands, bathing, cleaning dishes, doing laundry, or something else. In fact, people often take hot water for granted, but they will always notice how important it is once they have to take an icy-cold shower.

To avoid this and similarly uncomfortable situations, it’s important to have a water heater that is in good condition. Here are four signs that you may need water heater replacement:

1. Your water heater is old. If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may be time to start looking for a replacement, especially if you have noticed problems. If you do not know how old your water heater is, you can check the manufacturer’s label on the water heater’s side to find the date of installation. If your water heater doesn’t have a label, look for its serial number to determine its age.
2. Your hot water doesn’t last long. If you are running out of hot water more frequently, your water heater may be failing due to sediment buildup or age. Calling a plumber will help you identify the problem and determine if the issues can be resolved with repairs or if you need water heater replacement.
3. Your water is rusty. If your water is a rusty color or tastes metallic, this is a sign your water heater may be corroding. Because rust cannot be reversed, you will need to replace your water heater.
4. Your water heater makes strange noises. When sediment at the bottom of your tank heats and hardens, you may hear strange popping or rumbling sounds coming from your water heater, and this is a sign you may need water heater replacement.