Last Updated: November 26, 2025
Thinking about upgrading your home’s water heater in Peabody, Massachusetts? We rely on these systems daily, whether it’s running a load of laundry, cleaning up the kitchen, or just taking a hot shower. So if your system is becoming less reliable, it might be time to consider a replacement. In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 signs you need a new water heater.
How Long Do Water Heaters Usually Last in Massachusetts?
You can expect your conventional, tank-style water heater to last about 8 to 12 years in Massachusetts, while a tankless model can last about 15 to 20 years before needing replacement. Of course, this assumes that you’re keeping up with regular water heater maintenance, which is one of the best ways to prolong the life expectancy of a water heater.
With this in mind, let’s look at the main signs that your heater is reaching the end of its lifespan.
1. Your Water Heater Is Over 8–12 Years Old
If your tank-style water heater is 8 to 12 years old or older, it will likely need to be replaced sooner rather than later. Not only do systems of this age tend to break down and face more issues, but they also run less efficiently. This means you’ll be overpaying for energy bills, as the system struggles to heat water quickly, consuming much more power than a modern, efficient unit would.
2. You’re Running Out of Hot Water Quickly
If it feels like you’re always running out of hot water, it’s a sure sign that your water heater needs attention. Assuming your water heater is properly sized, this can happen due to excess sediment buildup in the tank, which prevents the heating elements from heating the water quickly. This issue can also be caused by issues with the heating element itself or the unit’s thermostat. While this can sometimes be fixed, running out of hot water with an older system is a key sign that it’s time to replace the water heater.
3. Discolored, Rusty, or Metallic-Tasting Water
If your hot water comes out of the tap discolored, rusty, or with an unpleasant metallic taste, your water heater is most likely to blame. This happens due to excess sediment and corrosion within the tank and connecting pipes in your plumbing. While flushing the tank and replacing the unit’s anode rod can help with this, any corrosion that’s already been building up in your tank will likely continue to spread, eventually putting you at risk of a water heater disaster, such as a leaking tank.
4. Your Water Heater Is Leaking or Producing Moisture
If your water heater is leaking onto the floor or producing moisture on the exterior, it’s on its last legs. Water heaters carry many, many gallons of water at one time, and even a small leak can be disastrous to your home, causing wood rot, structural damage, and hazardous mold growth in hard-to-reach areas. Don’t ignore it if your water heater is starting to leak or produce excessive condensation.
5. Strange Noises or Rumbling From the Tank
While some quiet noises from your water heater are normal, you should pay close attention if you hear anything loud or unusual. Different sounds can mean different things — rumbling, popping, or crackling indicate excess sediment buildup in the tank, and hissing and whistling indicate water pressure issues or leaks. Ticking noises, which are just metal parts expanding and contracting, aren’t necessarily a reason for concern, but most other sounds mean your system is nearing the end of its lifespan.
More Signs You May Need a New Water Heater in Peabody, MA
Beyond these 5 major signs that your water heater needs replacement, there are a few other potential problems to keep an eye out for, including:
- Inconsistent hot water supply
- Strange smells from the water supply (especially sulfuric ‘rotten eggs’ smells or metallic odors)
- Rising energy bills with no change in usage
- Frequent repairs and shutdowns for various reasons
- Visible corrosion on water lines or the water heater itself
If you spot any of these issues, give the pros at Spencer Home Services a call. We’re available in Peabody and nearby Salem, Lynn, Danvers, and Beverly.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Water Heater?
No one wants to spend money on a new water heater before they need to, and it’s always good to repair water heaters when possible. The best way to know for sure whether it’s better to repair or replace a water heater is to have a local professional inspect and diagnose it. If your system is less than 8 to 12 years old and generally reliable, you can probably repair it and enjoy a few more years of use before you need to replace it.
However, if your unit is older, has been experiencing repeated breakdowns, or is simply becoming too energy-intensive to run economically, replacement is your best bet. In Peabody, MA, you can access several rebates for installing an efficient water heater, including through local utility companies such as Peabody Municipal Light Plant. These rebates help offset the costs of an efficient system, making it easier for you to access the monthly savings of a new unit.
Keep Things Flowing with Spencer Home Services
When your water heater is working as it should, you probably don’t think about it much. You turn the tap, hot water comes out, and you carry on with your life. If you’re tired of worrying about whether your water will actually come out hot this time, or you’re sick of discolored, metallic-tasting water, or you’re ready to stop overpaying on utility bills, Spencer Home Services can help.
Spencer Home Services doesn’t aim to be the cheapest — we aim to be the best. Backed by decades of experience, expert technicians, and industry-leading warranties, we deliver high-quality, lasting solutions done right the first time. We do what’s right — not what’s easy — so our customers get peace of mind, not shortcuts.
With over 40 years in the business, our team has the skills, experience, and knowledge to quickly and thoroughly inspect your water heater, identify the source of the issue, and either repair or replace it, depending on your needs. With trusted workmanship, honest pricing, and a commitment to your comfort, it’s no wonder we’re Peabody’s top choice for water heater services. Contact us to schedule a water heater service appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace my water heater after 10 years?
If you have a tank-style water heater, you should consider replacing it after 10 years, even if it hasn’t had any major problems yet. With water heaters, these issues tend to happen all at once, so it’s best to start budgeting for the new system now, at the very least.
Can a water heater last 20 years?
Tankless water heaters can last 20 years with proper maintenance, but this is at the far end of the average lifespan. Tank-style water heaters rarely last this long, and if they do, it’s at greatly reduced energy efficiency.
Is it worth switching to a tankless water heater?
Switching to a tankless water heater is a great way to get access to virtually unlimited hot water with far lower energy consumption. However, they cost more to install initially and require more in-depth maintenance, which may make them not the best choice for all households.
