Why Your Marietta Home's Water Heater Isn't Lasting as Long as It Should

Most Marietta homeowners expect their water heater to last 10-15 years, but many end up replacing theirs after just 6-8 years. If you've experienced premature water heater failure or you're wondering why your relatively new unit isn't performing well, you're not alone. At Rooter King, we see this problem constantly—and the good news is that it's usually preventable.

The Number One Reason Water Heaters Fail Early

Sediment buildup is the silent killer of water heaters, especially in areas of Marietta with hard water. As your water heater operates, minerals like calcium and magnesium settle at the bottom of the tank. Over time, this sediment layer thickens, creating several serious problems that shorten your water heater's life and drive up your energy bills.

When sediment accumulates, your water heater has to work much harder to heat water. The heating element or burner must heat through the sediment layer before it can warm the water above it, forcing your system to run longer and consume more energy. This extra work not only increases your utility bills but also causes premature wear on components.

Even worse, sediment creates hot spots on the tank bottom that can crack the tank lining, leading to corrosion and eventually leaks. Once your tank starts leaking, replacement is your only option—and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time.

The Simple Maintenance Most People Skip

Flushing your water heater annually removes sediment before it causes damage. This simple 30-minute maintenance task can add years to your water heater's life and improve its efficiency. Yet most Marietta homeowners never do it, either because they don't know it's necessary or they're unsure how to do it safely.

During a water heater flush, a plumber drains the tank completely, removing all the accumulated sediment. For heavily neglected units, this process might need repeating until the water runs clear. Professional plumbers also inspect the anode rod—a critical component that protects your tank from corrosion—and replace it if necessary.

Other Common Mistakes That Shorten Water Heater Life

Ignoring Temperature Settings - Setting your water heater too high (above 120°F) wastes energy and accelerates sediment buildup. Too low, and you risk bacterial growth. The sweet spot is 120°F for most households.

Skipping the Pressure Relief Valve Test - This safety valve prevents dangerous pressure buildup, but it can stick if never tested. Testing it annually ensures it'll work when needed and helps it last longer.

Neglecting Strange Noises - Popping, rumbling, or banging sounds indicate severe sediment buildup. By the time you hear these noises, significant damage may already be occurring.

Installing Without Expansion Tanks - In closed plumbing systems (common in newer Marietta homes), expansion tanks prevent excessive pressure that damages water heaters. Many installations skip this critical component.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Professional Attention

Don't wait for complete failure. Call Rooter King if you notice:

• Rumbling, popping, or banging noises during operation

• Rusty or discolored hot water

• Reduced hot water supply

• Water pooling around the base

• Fluctuating water temperature

• Age approaching 8-10 years without maintenance

Protect Your Investment

Your water heater is one of your home's hardest-working appliances, providing hot water for showers, laundry, dishes, and cleaning every single day. A small investment in annual maintenance protects this expensive appliance and ensures it reaches—or exceeds—its expected lifespan.

Rooter King's maintenance plans include water heater flushing, inspection, and all the preventative care your system needs to run efficiently for years. We serve Marietta homeowners who want to avoid the expense and inconvenience of premature water heater replacement.