Water heaters are essential for any home, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishes. However, like any appliance, they can break down and require repairs. Several types of water heaters are on the market today, but they all tend to suffer from similar problems. Here are some of the most common water heater problems.
Water Leaks
Water leaks are a huge problem because they can cause extensive damage to your home if left unchecked. The most common causes of water leaks are faulty valves and pipes or a crack in the tank itself. Water leaks could also result from faulty plumbing connecting the water heater to your home’s water supply. If you notice a water leak, it is important to shut off the water heater and call a plumber as soon as possible.
No Hot Water
This issue could be due to several different things. The most common culprits are a failed heating element or a faulty thermostat. It is also possible that your home’s circuit breaker has tripped, causing the power to the water heater to be cut off. If you are not getting hot water, it could also mean that your water usage exceeds your water heater’s capacity. In this case, you may need to upgrade to a larger unit. If you have a gas water heater, check that the pilot light is lit.
Rusty Water
If the water coming out of your tap is rusty, it could indicate that your water heater is rusting on the inside. This problem is most common in older units not made of stainless steel. Rust can cause serious damage to your water heater and eventually lead to leaks. If you notice rust in your water, it is important to call a plumber as soon as possible so they can inspect your unit and determine if it needs replacement.
Strange Noises
If you notice strange noises coming from your water heater, it could mean that sediment has built up inside the unit. In tankless water heaters, sediment can cause the heating elements to overheat and fail, as well as reduce the efficiency of your water heater. To get rid of sediment, you will need to have your water heater flushed by a professional.
Foul Smell Coming from Water Heater
If you notice a foul smell coming from your water heater, it is likely due to bacteria growth in the unit. This problem is common in units not used often, such as those in vacation homes. Bacteria can cause serious health problems if ingested, so it is important to have your water heater professionally cleaned if you notice this problem.
Extremely Hot Water
If the water from your tap is too hot, it could be due to a faulty thermostat. The thermostat’s function is to regulate the temperature of the water, so if it is not working properly, the water could get too hot. Additionally, you may encounter this problem if you have set the thermostat to a higher setting than is recommended for your unit.
Water Heater Takes Too Long to Heat Up
If your water heater takes longer than usual to heat up, it could mean that sediment has built up inside the unit, and it may be nearing the end of its life. In tankless water heaters, sediment can cause the heating elements to overheat and fail, as well as reduce the efficiency of your water heater. To get rid of sediment, you will need to have your water heater flushed yearly by a professional,but we only recommend flushing tankless water heaters, as we have found that flushing standard water heaters does not extend their lifespan nor increase their productivity.
Pilot Light Issues
If your water heater is not working, it could be because the pilot light has gone out. The pilot light is responsible for igniting the burner inside the unit, so if it is not lit, the water heater will not work. If you have a gas water heater, check to ensure that the pilot light is lit before calling a plumber.
Identify Water Heater Problems Early
Keep an eye out for any signs of trouble, such as leaks, strange noises, rusty water, excessive heat, or no heat, the longer you let issues with water go, the more the problems can compound.
We Can Help!
If you are having problems with your water heater in American Fork, UT, the experts at Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing can help. We specialize in water heaters, drain cleaning, garbage disposals, sheet metal fabrication, heating and cooling services, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
