Is your water heater acting up — or are you trying to avoid an unexpected cold shower and a costly replacement?

Most homeowners don’t think about their water heater until something goes wrong. But like any appliance, wear and tear build up over time — and small warning signs can turn into big breakdowns fast.

Let’s go over how to recognize early signs of trouble, why it matters for Omaha homes specifically, and what to do to keep your hot water running reliably year-round.

A water heater that’s about to go out doesn’t always quit suddenly — it usually gives off clear warning signs first.

Here are the most common red flags:

1. Water takes longer to heat up
2. Inconsistent temperatures (hot–cold–hot again)
3. Unusual noises (rumbling, knocking, or popping)
4. Rust-colored water or metallic smells
5. Puddles or moisture around the base
6. The unit is 10+ years old (most tanks last 8–12 years)

Even one or two of these symptoms can mean your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Omaha’s mix of older housing and hard water makes water heaters work extra hard. Homes built from the 1960s–1990s often have plumbing systems that are already aging — and when you add mineral buildup from our local water supply, tanks tend to wear out sooner.

Here’s what that means for your home:

• Hard water minerals build up inside the tank, reducing efficiency and causing heating elements to fail.
• Sediment buildup leads to noisy operation and wasted energy.
• Leaks can damage basements, drywall, or flooring — especially in finished lower levels.

At McIntosh Plumbing, we’ve repaired and replaced hundreds of water heaters in Omaha homes, and in most cases, the signs were visible long before failure.

If you’re noticing any warning signs, don’t wait for the heater to quit — a quick check now can save you from a bigger repair or replacement later.

1. Do a quick visual inspection
   Check around the base for corrosion, rust, or water pooling.
2. Verify the manufacture date
   If it’s more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to plan for replacement.
3. Call a licensed plumber
   A professional inspection can confirm whether it’s a minor repair, like a faulty valve, or something more serious.

If you’re considering an upgrade, this could also be the perfect time to explore energy-efficient tankless systems, especially if you plan to stay in your home for several more years.

At McIntosh Plumbing, we help Omaha homeowners keep their water heaters running efficiently — and we’ll always give you an honest assessment before recommending replacement.

Schedule a quick water heater inspection today and get a clear answer — no pressure, no surprises.

📍 Local. Honest. Reliable.
🔧 Done right. On time. Built to last.