Spotting Common Water Heater Problems
Knowing how to spot common water heater issues can save you money and protect your home’s comfort. While some issues can be as small as a loosened pipe or faulty heating element, it’s important to know when to call in a professional plumber for an expert appraisal. Learn more about water heater problems and how they should be fixed here.
Water Leaks
Every once in a while, you may find that water is collecting on or near your water heater. These leaks aren’t often hard to spot, but it may be difficult to see exactly where they’re coming from. Older water heaters often have issues with the pressure relief valve, which can cause water to accumulate. There may also be issues with the supply valve or overflow pipe. Without knowing exactly what’s causing the leak, you likely won’t be able to fix the issue by yourself.
Spotting a leak too late increases your chances of a mold or mildew problem. Green or black spots near your water tank could be due to a hidden leak or moisture issue. A professional plumber will tighten any loose valves and clear away debris impacting the system’s efficiency.
Water Discoloration
No one wants to deal with discolored water that tastes or smells wrong. Excess mineral buildup in the tank will cause a host of problems. Homes with hard water often see a lot of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While some buildup is normal, too much can cause your system to overheat or possibly even rupture.
If your water is brown or rust-colored, your tank may be reaching the end of its lifespan. Rust in or on your tank indicates it’s no longer able to safely hold water. The best option at that point is to replace it before it breaks entirely and causes serious water damage in your basement.
Temperature Inconsistencies
Water heaters can often face temperature issues if they haven’t been properly maintained. If your home’s water is too hot or cold, you may be dealing with a faulty thermostat or broken heating element. These issues will only worsen over time, making it essential to call in a plumber.
Some temperature inconsistencies may be caused by the size of your tank. Water that only ever feels mildly warm could be caused by a water heater that’s too small for the size of your home. If your water is too hot, you could be at risk for painful burns and scalding.
Odd Noises and Smells
Broken water heaters can emit odors that smell like rotten eggs. This could be caused by water that’s been left in the tank too long and has started growing bacteria. If you don’t smell anything strange from your faucets, you may be suffering from a gas leak. Call for professional plumbing services immediately to fix the issue and keep your home safe.
Strange noises like whining, thumping and rumbling are also common if your system is overdue for a flush. There may be too much sediment in the water or buildup at the bottom of the tank.
Rely on Professionals
Just like any other large appliance in your home, your water heater will probably face common issues, like leaks, from time to time. While it may be tempting to try to fix the issue yourself, it’s always safer and more cost-efficient to rely on a professional. What may seem like a loose valve could actually be a larger problem that spreads to other parts of your water heater. Regular expert maintenance during the year will keep your water heater safe and at peak efficiency.
Dependable Home Comfort Company
Nacogdoches Sheet Metal, Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LTD. is ready to help you with a full range of heating, cooling and plumbing services in Nacogdoches, TX. We have decades of experience servicing every HVAC model and make. Our team maintains an exceptional rating with the Better Business Bureau, and we’re also a proud Dave Lennox Premier Dealer. We’re dedicated to serving our community by always providing an exceptional quality of work.
Rely on us today to install, repair or maintain your HVAC system. We’re ready to check your indoor air quality take care of your sheet metal fabrication needs and service your air ducts. Our trained team will efficiently repair or replace your home’s water heater system. Drain and sewer cleanings and repairs are no problem with our talented crew on the job. Call today for more info.