If you’re having problems with your water heater, you’re not alone. Here are seven common water heater problems and how to fix them using a professional service.
Not Enough Hot Water
Your water heater might start having issues with temperature control. The most common problem is when the water isn’t hot enough. In such cases, the first thing to check is the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to the correct temperature. If the issue persists, it may be time to contact professional water heater repair services.
Leaking Water Heater
Although leaks are common, they also indicate a significant issue with the water heating system. Leaks usually indicate loose plumbing connections or a corroded water line, and it’s advised to turn off the power supply and call a plumber. Here are the most common causes of water leaks:
- Overheating,
- A bad gasket,
- Problems with the water tank,
- A stuck valve,
- Trouble with water pressure, etc.
Noisy Water Heater
Sometimes you might notice that the water heater is making peculiar noises. The primary reason behind this can be sediment build-up. The first thing you should do is try cleaning the sediment yourself and flush the water heater. If the problem persists, the sediment build-up might be too much, and it’s best to contact a water heater repair company.
The Water Heater Won’t Turn On
Next is when your water heater is simply not turning on. If that’s the case, check the circuit breaker and see if it’s tripped. In that case, flip it back on and then try again. If the issue persists, there could be a problem with the thermostat.
Discoloration
If you notice rusty water coming out of the tank, it may indicate corrosion, which means it needs a cleaning service.
Low Pressure
A drop in water pressure is another indication of a water heater problem. This might be because of hard water build-up in the tank, sediment accumulation, or blocked filters.
Malfunctioning Pilot Light
One common issue when servicing gas-powered tank heaters is a malfunctioning pilot light or burner. If the pilot light fails to turn on, contact your local gas utility company for servicing. Otherwise, the potential problem could be a defective thermocouple, clogged vent, burned-out orifices on the burners, or improper temperature control. Checking each element and adjusting the temperature when running hot water can help diagnose the root cause of these specific issues.
How To Fix A Water Heater?
Once you have identified the problem, you can begin to fix it.
For example, if the problem is with the pressure-relief valve, you can simply clean it. If the problem is with the heating element, you can replace it.
If you are unsure how to fix the problem, call a professional. Issues with water heating systems require technical expertise, and qualified professionals know how to fix them. Additionally, they are experts in replacing water heaters and have the tools to install them successfully. Most parts that they provide have long-term warranties.
Tips For Preventing Water Heater Problems
Once you have taken care of the persisting issues with the water heater, taking a few precautions is essential. Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind.
- Ensure that there is no sediment build-up in the tank.
- Always invest in a water heater according to the requirements. A small water heater shouldn’t serve a large family and may soon start causing trouble.
- It’s good to call a professional for regular water heater inspections and maintenance.
How To Choose The Right Water Heater?
You need to consider a few things when choosing a water heater.
- The first is how much water you need to heat. If you extensively use the water heater or you often have guests over, you’ll need a larger water heater.
- The second thing to consider is the type of water heater: electric or gas. Electric water heaters are cheaper to install, but gas water heaters are more efficient.
- The third thing to consider is the climate. A water heater is a must if you live in a cold climate.
Final Words
Following these tips, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix most water heater problems. If you’re still having issues or if your water heater is beyond repair, be sure to contact a professional.
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