Remember that your water heater works all day and night to give you a steady supply of hot water. All that work, however, takes a toll on the system and can cause problems. Before you call a plumber, please get to know these signs of trouble and what they mean for your system. Fluctuating Water Temperatures - If you get water that fluctuates between being too hot or too cold, it might mean one of the heating elements is failing. It can also mean that your water heater has lost efficiency with age and can't provide the hot water you're used to. Water leaks - A leaking water heater doesn't always require replacement. Sometimes, you might have a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve that's the issue, or it could be something like a bad gasket. Discolored Water - If you see brown or cloudy water coming out of the hot water tap, it could mean that you have sediment buildup in the tank, which you can solve by flushing the system, or it could be something worse like a corroding tank. Unusual Noises - It's common in areas with hard water to have scale and sediment build-up on fixtures and in your water tank. If you don't flush the tank regularly, sediment builds up and hardens, which causes the system to lose efficiency, and you may hear banging or rumbling sounds. If you suspect that your water heater may be failing, call Platinum Plumbing ASAP to avoid disaster.