The 4 Most Common Water Heater Issues
Your home’s water heater puts in a lot of effort in the background to provide hot water for you and your family’s everyday tasks, including showering, washing the dishes, laundry, and even washing your hands. However, there are instances when it strains itself a bit too much, creating issues that call for expert assistance.
In this article, you will learn about the most common water heater issues and what you can do to prevent them.
The 4 most common water heater issues you may experience
Always remember to switch off the electricity at the circuit breaker before doing any water heater troubleshooting procedures!
Water temperature
Are you having issues with your water being too hot or too cold? You may be experiencing the most common problem when it comes to water heaters.
No hot water could mean the heater is broken or malfunctioning, a blown fuse or circuit breaker, or you could have a faulty thermostat. It could also mean the pilot light is off, causing a shortage of hot water. If your water is too hot, it may mean your thermostat is set too high.
If you are having trouble lighting your pilot light, it could be one of two things, a bad gas valve or a faulty thermocouple.
If you have lukewarm water, but it’s not hot enough for your daily tasks, you may have issues with your dip tube, crossed plumbing lines due to improper installation, or your heating system may be too small to keep up.
If your water heater isn’t producing the water temperature you want, the best course of action is to find the root of the problem and purchase new parts or call in the Chas Roberts professionals.
Leaks
A water heater will have minor leaks as well as common wear and tear, creating cracks and fractures. But there are many causes. These include,
- Overheating
- A valve that is stuck
- A gasket that needs replacing
- Improper water pressure
- And more
Make sure all plumbing connections are tightened to avoid leaks. If bolts and connections are all tightened and look to be in good condition, you may have a bad gasket that needs replacing. We recommend calling in the professionals to take a look.
Discolored or smelly water
No one likes discolored water or water that has an odor to it. If you smell something odd when you turn on the hot water, there’s a possibility that germs have accumulated in your tank. If you notice water on the top, it could signify that your water connections are loose.
Discolored water could mean it is time to replace the anode rod. If that does not fix the problem, it may be time to look for a new water heater.
Odd noises
The most frequent source of strange noises coming from your water heater is sediment buildup. This issue could be resolved by flushing the water heater. Contact us if the issue persists after flushing your water heater. You may need to replace your water heater. It is best to report these problems right away to save money and to ensure they are properly fixed.
A leak, excessive pressure inside the tank, or loud pipes due to regular expanding and contracting are other reasons for noise and could mean nothing, but it is always safe to check.
Do your part to prevent a water heater issue
- Make sure your heater is insulated properly
- Check for rust, leaks, and any damage
- Routinely check the temperature pressure release valve
- Keep the area clean around your water heater and remove any dust or debris
Need our help with your water heater issues?
Contact a Chas Roberts plumbing technician to ask a question, schedule a repair or maintenance, or receive help regarding a water heater plumbing emergency today. To save on your next appointment, make sure to take advantage of our offers and financing options.
