Water heaters are always working hard in the dark recesses of your home to provide warm water for you and your family. Sometimes, we don’t appreciate such appliances until they stop working. It can be a nightmare if you need to be somewhere on time only to realize that there’s no hot water for a shower. Here are some common signs of trouble with your hot-water heater, along with some possible solutions.
Common Signs of Trouble
Water temperature issues are, of course, the most common problems one can expect from their water heater. Cold water could be due to a bad heating element, a faulty thermostat, or even a lack of adequate electricity. If the water is too hot, it may simply mean that the thermostat needs adjusting.
Leaks are another potential problem. If you notice rust on the water heater, this can be a sign of a leak somewhere. This issue may be due to a stuck valve or a bad gasket. It can also happen when the water pressure is higher than it should be. Another issue to look out for is discolored water. This can be a sign of corrosion on the inside of the tank. Another sign of trouble is hearing strange noises from the heater. This can be due to the buildup of sediment inside of the tank.
Possible Solutions to Common Problems
If the water temperature is off, the first thing to do is to check the thermostat. If it’s set correctly, check each heating element. Replacing the thermostat or heating elements will often do the trick if your heater no longer produces warm water at all. For leaks, check all of the nearby plumbing connections and the bolts that secure each heating element.
If the heating elements are secure but you still notice moisture escaping in the area, you may try replacing any gaskets here. If your leak is from corrosion in the tank, it’s probably just time for a new heater. If you’re experiencing odd noises, you can try replacing the anode rod. This part is responsible for preventing sediment buildup, and it wears out over time. If you’re not familiar with any of these parts or procedures, it’s always best to contact a professional plumber.
Conclusion
Some problems should only be handled by the professionals. Tackling a serious job on a DIY basis may, in fact, make things worse. If you live in or near Waldorf, MD, why not call A Better Plumber and let us handle your water heater service needs for you? We will be happy to assist you in any way we can.
