Replacing a failing tank water heater before it flooded the garage
Location: Marysville, WA
Service: Water heater replacement
Customer: Steve M.
A Marysville homeowner called us after noticing rust-colored water from the hot taps and a small puddle forming under the water heater. The unit was 14 years old — well past the typical lifespan for a tank water heater — and showing multiple warning signs.
Chase headed out to assess the situation. The tank had visible corrosion at the base and the anode rod was completely depleted. Rather than wait for a full failure (and the flood that comes with it), Steve opted for replacement. We installed a new 50-gallon gas water heater the same week, hauled away the old unit, and got him back to reliable hot water.
What Steve Had to Say
“Called for a water heater replacement after ours started showing rust. Chase came out, gave us honest advice about repair vs replace, and had the new unit in within a few days. No pressure, fair price, cleaned up after. Exactly what you want from a plumber.”
— Steve M., Marysville
Thanks, Steve. Catching a failing water heater before it floods is always better than dealing with the aftermath.
When to Replace vs. Repair a Water Heater
Not every water heater problem means replacement. Here’s how we think about it:
Replace when:
- The tank is leaking — once the tank itself is corroding or cracked, repair isn’t possible
- The unit is 10+ years old AND needs major repair — if the repair costs more than half a replacement, replace it
- Rusty water from hot taps only — rust in the tank itself (not the pipes) means the lining has failed
- Multiple components failing — when the thermostat, elements, and anode are all going, the tank is on its way out
Repair when:
- The unit is relatively new (under 6-7 years) and the problem is a single component
- It’s a thermostat, heating element, or T&P valve — these are replaceable parts
- The tank itself is sound — no visible corrosion, no leaks at seams or base
Steve’s unit checked multiple boxes for replacement: age, rust, visible corrosion, and a forming leak. Replacement was the right call.
Signs Your Water Heater Is Failing
If you’re seeing any of these, it’s worth having us take a look:
- Rusty or discolored hot water — indicates corrosion inside the tank
- Popping or rumbling sounds — sediment buildup on the heating elements
- Water pooling around the base — could be condensation, could be tank failure
- Lukewarm water or runs out fast — failing heating elements or thermostat
- Age approaching 10-12 years — most tanks don’t last much longer
Catching a failing water heater early — like Steve did — means replacing on your schedule, not dealing with an emergency flood.
Water Heater Replacement in Marysville
We serve all of Marysville — Sunnyside, Lakewood, Smokey Point, downtown, and the newer developments. If your water heater is showing signs of age or failure, give us a call. We’ll tell you honestly whether repair makes sense or replacement is the better option.
Call 425-374-3909 · Request a Quote
Stollwerck Plumbing & Sewer · Mukilteo, WA · WA License #STOLLPL780CJ