Hello there, I have brown water coming out from my bathroom shower faucet (hot only) and my washing machine. Could it be time to replace my water heater? I've contacted the water department and We are the only ones in my neighborhood having this problem. I have to let the water run for a minute or so till it runs clear. We need help in Middletown, Ny

"I have brown water coming out from my bathroom shower faucet (hot only) and my washing machine. Could it be time to replace my water heater?"

Nope! The brown you see is iron oxide,(rust). But it's time you started a maintenance schedule and begain to flush you heater out. Let me show you how.
For long life and fewer troubles you should keep your heater clear of mineral build-up by flushing on a regular schedule. Attach a hose to the boiler drain at the bottom of the tank. With the pressure on, open the boiler drain and let it run until the water runs clear. You will see a spurt of red,(rust) followed by white or yellow grains,(lime or calcium carbonate). This shouldn't take more then a few minutes. Don't forget to flush it out every month. Your heater will thank you for it. Hope this helps, Tom