Signs that you need water heater repair
A deteriorating water heater doesn’t seem like a big deal until you have to take an ice-cold shower. The water heater works constantly 24 hours a day, every day throughout the year. Considering the increased amount of stress he has to endure, it’s no surprise that at some point he is bound to break down. When nothing but cold water comes out of the taps and showers, it suddenly strikes you how important this appliance is. Repairing the water heater is significant.
Here are 6 signs you should look for in a malfunctioning water heater
1. Irregular water temperatures
Do you notice that sometimes your water comes out as hot as you need it, other times it is lukewarm or even cold? The fluctuating water temperature is a good indication that something is wrong with your heater. Ask a professional plumber to come and take a look at what the problem could be. Also, try to remember when you first bought the water heater.
If it’s relatively new, you can get it fixed, but if it’s too old, it’s best to replace it with a new one. This saves time, money, and also the stress of having to repair the device several times. What causes the water heater to lose heat? The most common reason behind this problem is the accumulation of mineral deposits. Mineral deposits accumulate over time and cover the water heating elements, preventing them from functioning as needed. When only the water elements are faulty, you can have them repaired or replaced instead of buying another completely new water heating system.
2. Discolouration of the water
It goes without saying that the only water that comes out of your tap should be colorless. At times, it may seem confused due to the high pressure, but it should become colourless once the pressure is uniform. If you notice that the water coming out of the taps is brownish, rusty or has small dark particles, the fault lies with your water heater. Due to sedimentation, the water changes colour and is brownish. If this is the case, you may be facing a serious health hazard in your home. Ask an emergency water heater plumber to come and clean the hot water tanks or leave the water running to see if the colour of the water becomes colourless again. If that doesn’t work, it could mean your tank is rusty.
3. The hot water runs out too quickly
The water heater is designed to keep the water hot and ready for use. It has two heating elements, one at the bottom and one at the top. At any given moment, a water heater has litres upon litres of hot water inside. Accordingly, if the hot water runs out in times of need, one of the water heating elements does not work.
4. Funny noises coming from the tank
As the heating system ages, it starts with a slight hum and slowly grows to a growl. Many distraught homeowners assume their water heater is about to burst. But that’s not the case at all. It is perfectly normal if the water heater makes a little noise. But if the noise becomes loud, or crackling, you have good reason to raise concern. To find out what the problem may be, contact a professional repair plumber and have them check the water heater.
In many cases, a water heater becomes noisy when there is an excessive accumulation of mineral deposits inside the tanks and on the heating elements. Other reasons could be that the water heater has a broken dip tube, which causes hot and cold water to mix. Too much noise can also weaken the water heater structures, causing it to weaken and start leaking. This means that you will need to purchase a new water heater. Call Preston Plumber to replace the water heater. But if yours hasn’t started leaking yet, you can ask the technician to rinse all the water and have him spotless the internal areas of your stove. This is the only way to stop the noises and make it work again.
5. Signs of corrosion
Often, corrosion on your water heater means you should install a new unit. You can tell that your water heater has corrosion or rust if you see it on the outside or if the water is discoloured and brown. But what if the problem is only partial? Some people make this work by replacing the heat exchanger and other rusty parts. But this is only a temporary solution that gives you time to raise the money needed to purchase another heater. The water heaters are designed to serve an average of 8 to 12 years. So if you want to achieve more, it is vital that you maintain and clean it regularly.
6. Water leaks
In addition to noise, there are other reasons that can weaken the structure of your water heater causing it to leak. This leads to water stagnation around the bottom of the tank. Other than that it is quite dangerous especially in case you have pets, small children and other electrical appliances in the area. It could also cause corrosion which could penetrate the external parts and reach the internal areas of the water heater.
Do you need to repair the water heater? Hire a professional!
Having an amateur repairman repair your water heater is a risky way to damage it or raise further problems. Dealing only with professional plumbers is what guarantees you flawless plumbing service and the longevity of your water heater.
Are you looking for credible professionals in plumbing and water heater repair? In short, contact us today. We are licensed to work on all types of water heaters and have enough experience to know how to fix all water heater malfunctions. Call Preston Plumber.