26June 2025
Is your water heater giving you trouble—or just showing its age? If you’re not getting consistent hot water, noticing strange noises, or seeing rusty water from your tap, it could be time to think about a replacement.
At Southside Plumbing, we help Omaha homeowners decide when a repair will do the trick—and when replacing your water heater is the smarter long-term move.
🔥 Common Signs Your Water Heater Might Need Replacement
- Age of the Unit
- Most standard tank-style water heaters last about 8–12 years. If yours is pushing that upper limit (or older), it’s more likely to break down—and less efficient overall. Look for the manufacture date on the unit label.
- Rust-Colored Water
- Brown or reddish water from your hot water tap may mean the inside of your tank is rusting—especially if it only happens when using hot water.
- Loud Popping or Rumbling Noises
- These sounds often come from sediment buildup in the tank. If flushing the tank doesn’t fix it, the unit may be deteriorating.
- Water Around the Base
- Leaks near the bottom of the unit may indicate a fracture in the tank—this typically means the unit needs full replacement, not repair.
- Inconsistent or Lukewarm Water
- If your showers go cold quickly or the temperature fluctuates without warning, the internal heating elements could be failing—or the unit may be undersized for your home’s needs.
🔗 Explore our Water Heater services
🔍 Repair or Replace?
Some water heater issues—like a faulty thermostat, heating element, or valve—can often be repaired. But if your unit is 10+ years old, out of warranty, or showing signs of rust or leakage, replacement is usually the better investment.
Not sure which route to take? Our licensed plumbers can inspect your unit and help you make the call.
✅ Benefits of Replacing Your Water Heater
- Better efficiency = lower energy bills
- Consistent hot water for your family
- Fewer emergency repairs
- Available rebates or incentives in some cases
- Peace of mind with a new warranty
Southside Plumbing offers professional water heater installation for both standard and tankless units. We’ll help you choose the right size and model for your home—and install it with care.
We serve the entire Omaha metro, including Ralston, Elkhorn, Council Bluffs, Millard, and nearby communities. Whether it’s a leaky tank or a system that just can’t keep up, Southside Plumbing is here to help.
Need Help Deciding?
Not sure if you need a repair or a full replacement? Book a visit with one of our licensed plumbers—we’ll assess your current system and give you an honest recommendation.
If your water heater is aging or acting up, don’t wait until it fails. Call Southside Plumbing today for a clear diagnosis and reliable service that keeps the hot water flowing.