A dependable water heater is essential for everyday comfort in your Seattle home—whether it’s enjoying a warm shower on a cold morning or running the dishwasher after dinner. But like any appliance, your water heater can develop issues over time. Knowing when to call for professional water heater repair is key to avoiding bigger problems and ensuring your family always has reliable hot water.
At Brennan Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and Electrical, we’ve been helping homeowners across Western Washington since 1987 with water heater repairs, replacements, and maintenance. Here are the most common warning signs that it’s time to call the experts.
1. Inconsistent or No Hot Water
If your water heater can’t keep up with your household’s needs—or worse, if you’re running out of hot water altogether—it’s a sign something isn’t right. A faulty heating element, thermostat issues, or sediment buildup in the tank could all be to blame. Professional repair ensures the problem is correctly diagnosed and resolved.
2. Strange Noises
Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds coming from your water heater are not normal. These noises often signal excessive sediment buildup inside the tank. Without prompt service, this can lead to overheating, inefficiency, or even tank damage.
3. Water Leaks
Even small leaks near your water heater should never be ignored. Leaks can indicate corrosion in the tank, loose connections, or a failing pressure relief valve. Since water damage can spread quickly, calling Brennan Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and Electrical at the first sign of a leak is always the safest choice.
4. Discolored or Foul-Smelling Water
If your hot water looks rusty, cloudy, or has a metallic or rotten-egg odor, it’s time for repair. Rust inside the tank or bacterial growth in the water heater are often the culprits, and professional servicing is needed to restore safe, clean water.
5. Fluctuating Water Temperatures
Does your water switch from hot to lukewarm without warning? Fluctuating temperatures can point to issues with your thermostat, heating elements, or sediment buildup. Professional repair keeps your water temperature consistent and reliable.
6. Old Age
Most water heaters last 8–12 years. If yours is nearing or past this range and showing signs of trouble, repairs may still help extend its life. However, a professional can also advise if replacement is the smarter, more cost-effective option.
Why Call the Experts?
DIY fixes can sometimes make water heater problems worse—or even create safety hazards. Licensed technicians from Brennan Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and Electrical have the training to safely handle gas lines, electrical components, and pressurized systems. More importantly, we provide long-term solutions, so your family can enjoy reliable hot water without the stress of repeated breakdowns.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues with your water heater, don’t wait until you’re left with cold showers. Call (206) 222-7674 today for expert water heater repair in Seattle and across Western Washington.