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When to Replace Your Water Heater: Signs to Watch For

If your showers are suddenly lukewarm or your water heater is making strange noises, it might be time to take a closer look. Water heaters work hard every day, but like any appliance, they eventually wear out. Knowing when it’s time for a water heater replacement can save you money, stress, and a few cold mornings.

Homeowner considering water heater replacement options

1. Your water heater isn’t heating like it used to

The most obvious sign? Your hot water heater isn’t heating. If you’ve turned the tap and only get warm or cold water, there could be a failing heating element, a sediment buildup, or the end of your tank’s lifespan. A quick inspection from a FloHawks technician can help determine whether it’s a repairable issue or time for a new unit.

2. The age of your water heater

Most water heaters last about 8 to 12 years. Once yours hits that range, efficiency drops and the risk of leaks or total failure rises. If your tank is nearing that age, ask a professional for an estimate on water heater replacement cost — it’s often more affordable in the long run than frequent repairs.

3. Strange noises or rumbling

If you hear banging, popping, or rumbling from your tank, that’s usually sediment buildup heating unevenly. Over time, this sediment hardens and causes your system to overwork — a common reason homeowners look up water heater repair near me. A professional flush might help, but if the noises continue, replacement is usually the smarter choice.

4. Leaks or puddles around the tank

Even a small leak can lead to water damage fast. Check for moisture or corrosion around the base of your heater. If you spot rust or pooling water, it’s time to schedule a service visit right away.

5. High energy bills

A water heater that’s working too hard to deliver the same temperature uses more energy. If your utility bills have quietly climbed, your system may be losing efficiency. A new water heater installation will heat more consistently and save you money month after month.

Don’t wait until it breaks

A failing water heater rarely goes out at a convenient time. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, call 1-800-FLOHAWK or schedule service online at flohawks.com. Our licensed plumbers can diagnose the problem and recommend whether repair or replacement is best for your home and budget.

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OUR SERVICES

Isaiah Taylor

Service Advisor

Tacoma native Isaiah Taylor has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor, he focuses on building strong relationships with customers and making sure they feel confident in the solutions being provided.

Isaiah believes the company’s culture sets FloHawks apart. He appreciates working alongside people who genuinely care about customers and take pride in doing the job right.

At 26, Isaiah is focused on building his career and continuing to grow in the industry. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him in the gym lifting weights and staying active.

Kevin Elbert

Service Advisor

Born in Olympia and now living in Lacey, Kevin Elbert has spent 11 years serving customers with FloHawks. As a Service Advisor, he is focused on helping homeowners and businesses find solutions when plumbing or septic issues arise.

Kevin’s favorite part of the job is working with customers who need help and finding a path forward that solves the problem. He values being part of a team that takes pride in delivering dependable service when it matters most.

In his free time, Kevin enjoys staying active outdoors. Hiking, camping, fishing, photography, soccer, and travel are some of his favorite ways to spend time when he’s not at work. At home, he stays busy with his four teenagers.

Stephen Redford

Service Advisor

Stephen Redford was born in Tacoma and now lives in Gig Harbor. With 14 years at FloHawks, he’s built a reputation as both a trusted Service Advisor and a key contributor to the company’s growth and outreach.

Stephen plays a role in business development, trade shows, and marketing while also supporting service operations across multiple areas. He appreciates FloHawks’ unique culture and commitment to customer service, believing the team consistently goes above and beyond what most companies offer.

Outside of work, Stephen enjoys walking, playing golf, and riding motorcycles. He’s married to his wife, Lori, and is the proud father of three children.

Janie “J” Kirkland

Service Advisor Assistant

Janie “J” Kirkland was born in Miami, Florida, and now calls Roy, Washington, home. Despite being newer to FloHawks, joining the team mid-2025, she has already become a valued member of the Service Advisor support team.

J enjoys the strong sense of teamwork at FloHawks and the relationships she has built with the people she works alongside each day. That collaborative spirit helps the team deliver the dependable service customers count on.

Outside the office, J loves spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, as well as making memories with her family. She’s the proud mother of two sons and a grandmother to four grandchildren.

Carl Evanson

Service Advisor

A Puyallup native who now lives in Spanaway, Carl Evanson has been helping customers at FloHawks for more than 13 years. As a Service Advisor, he brings deep experience and a practical approach to solving plumbing and septic challenges.

Carl takes pride in helping customers find real solutions to their problems. At FloHawks, the philosophy is simple: if water runs through it, the team can handle it, and Carl has spent more than a decade proving that to customers across the region.

When he’s not working, Carl enjoys camping and spending time with his growing family, which includes two grown sons and seven grandchildren.

Luke Schneider

Service Advisor Assistant

Originally from the Midwest and now living in the Puyallup area, Luke Schneider has spent the past three years supporting the FloHawks service team as a Service Advisor Assistant. His role focuses on logistics and administrative coordination, making sure the details are handled so the team can deliver excellent service in the field.

Luke especially enjoys the moment when everything comes together to solve a customer’s problem. Helping turn a complicated situation into a clear plan and a successful outcome is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

When he’s not working, Luke loves hosting and entertaining with his wife. Much of their free time is spent with family, often gathered around the table for board games and good conversation.

Crystal Lyons

Service Advisor Assistant

Born and raised in Tacoma and now living in Puyallup, Crystal Lyons has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor Assistant, she helps keep operations running smoothly while making sure customers feel supported every step of the way.

Crystal’s favorite part of the job is simple: helping people. Whether she’s assisting the service team behind the scenes or making sure customers get the answers they need, she takes pride in being part of a company that puts people first.

Outside of work, Crystal enjoys camping and spending time with her family. She’s married, and the proud mom of one daughter, and she also helps care for her niece, keeping family at the center of everything she does.