How to determine if hot water heater going bad?
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How can one determine if cast iron plumbing water pipes are deteriorating Home was built in 1968 and have city water and sewer have noted discoloration of water City flushed fire hydrants recently and this seemed to make a difference but on occasion still have problem could it be hot water heater Any suggestions
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Start with looking at the date on the hot water heater. Do you remember when you replaced it last? See if this helps.
https://www.plumbinghelptoday.com/about-us/blog/2014/september/10-signs-you-need-a-new-water-heater/
If this isn't it, let us know and we can try something else.
I would contact a plumber, Marsha.
The problem with old metal pipes is that they corrode and are impacted by water supply. Remember the Flint, MI problems. A water softener can help reduce corrosion. Water heaters over 10 years old can be a problem. Be sure to flush water heaters each year. That reminds me that I should do mine now. It may be time to get a re-plumbing job using new copper of plastic pipes.
It could be a number of things. But, when my water heater went bad it started letting out rust in the water. It was 14 years old, I was told they only last about that long.
Doubtful the HWH is the problem. If the city flushed their pipes and it helped, it's not in your pipes. Most likely you do not have cast iron water pipes. Most likely your pipes are galvanized. Cast iron was used for waste drains in 1968. On the off chance it is cast iron, that has it's own set of problems.
If the cold water and hot water taps both have discolored water, it's most likely coming from the city, since your hot water is the only one going through the HWH. Your cold water comes directly from the city.
When your hot water heater goes out, it can flood where it is, and sometimes hurt electrical lines and other pipes. If you have not replaced the heater since you bought the house, it may be time. Call a plumber. ☺️