As cooler weather moves into Middle Tennessee, the last thing any homeowner wants is a cold shower on a frosty morning. Your water heater works harder in the winter — and if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, the extra demand could push it over the edge.
If you live in Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill, Thompson’s Station, or Nolensville, now is the perfect time to make sure your water heater is ready before the temperatures drop. Here are the key warning signs that it might be time for a replacement.
1. Your Water Heater Is Over 10 Years Old
Most standard water heaters last 8–12 years with regular maintenance. After that, the efficiency begins to decline, and parts like the heating element or tank lining start to wear out.
If your unit was installed before 2015, it’s probably nearing retirement age. Even if it’s still producing hot water, a newer, more efficient model can save you money on energy bills and prevent unexpected breakdowns this winter.
Check out our Water Heater Replacement Services.
2. Inconsistent Water Temperature
Does your shower go from hot to cold without warning? That’s one of the first signs your water heater is struggling. Mineral buildup, corrosion, or failing heating elements can cause temperature fluctuations and uneven heating.
This is a common problem in Franklin and Brentwood, where hard water leads to faster sediment buildup. Flushing your tank may help temporarily, but if the problem keeps coming back, it’s time to consider a replacement.
3. Strange Noises Coming from the Tank
If you hear popping, rumbling, or banging sounds when your water heater runs, that’s sediment buildup at work. Over time, minerals in Tennessee’s water supply settle at the bottom of the tank and harden, trapping heat and creating air pockets that rattle and pop.
This doesn’t just make noise — it also reduces efficiency and puts extra stress on the tank, increasing the risk of cracks or leaks.
Plumbing Pro offers water heater flushes and inspections across Spring Hill and Thompson’s Station to help extend your system’s life or determine if replacement is the smarter choice.
4. Rusty Water or Corrosion Around the Tank
If your hot water looks rusty or discolored, or you notice rust forming around the base of your water heater, it’s a red flag that corrosion has set in. Once the tank starts to rust, leaks are only a matter of time.
A small leak can quickly turn into a flood, damaging floors and drywall. That’s why Plumbing Pro recommends replacing a corroded tank right away — before the damage gets worse.
5. Rising Utility Bills
An aging water heater becomes less efficient as sediment builds up and components wear out. You might not notice the problem until your energy or gas bills start climbing.
Switching to a high-efficiency or tankless water heater can dramatically reduce your energy use while providing endless hot water — perfect for families in Franklin, Nolensville, and Columbia who need consistent performance.
Learn about Tankless Water Heater Options.
6. Frequent Repairs
If you’ve called a plumber more than once this year for water heater issues, it may be more cost-effective to replace the unit. Frequent repairs often indicate internal wear that can’t be fixed with simple part replacements.
At Plumbing Pro, we can inspect your system and give you an honest recommendation — whether it’s a simple repair or a full replacement.
Professional Water Heater Replacement in Franklin & Surrounding Areas
At Plumbing Pro, we’re proud to help homeowners in Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill, Thompson’s Station, Nolensville, and Columbia stay comfortable year-round.
Our licensed plumbers offer:
- Expert installation of traditional and tankless systems
- Removal and disposal of old units
- Same-day emergency service
- Honest pricing with no surprises
Now’s the time to schedule your inspection or replacement before the cold weather sets in.
Contact us today to schedule your Water Heater Inspection.
Conclusion
Your water heater is one of the hardest-working systems in your home — and when it fails, it always seems to happen at the worst time. Replacing your old unit before winter gives you peace of mind, energy savings, and reliable hot water all season long.
If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, call Plumbing Pro today. We proudly serve Franklin, Brentwood, Spring Hill, and nearby Tennessee communities with fast, professional water heater replacement you can trust.