Water heaters are a vital part of our daily lives, providing us with hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. However, like any household appliance, water heaters are prone to problems and breakdowns. Whether you have an electric or gas water heater, knowing the common issues that can arise can help you identify and resolve problems quickly, ensuring you have reliable hot water when you need it.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we specialize in providing high-quality water heater repair and replacement. Our plumbers are familiar with the common water heater problems that homeowners and businesses experience. Here are four common water heater problems and what you should do to get them fixed so you can get your hot water back.
This is one of the most common issues with water heaters. If you're not getting hot water from your water heater, it may be due to a faulty thermostat, a broken heating element, or an interruption of power to the unit. Check the thermostat to make sure that it’s set correctly and is functioning properly. If it's not, adjust the temperature to the desired setting. You’ll also need to check the power supply to ensure there’s no interruption. If you're unable to diagnose or fix the problem on your own, it's best to call a professional plumber to inspect and repair your water heater.
Water heaters can sometimes develop leaks, which can be caused by a damaged tank, a broken valve, a bad gasket, improper water pressure, or loose connections. If you notice water pooling around the base of your water heater, turn off the water supply and call a nearby plumber for water heater repair to prevent damage to your home.
Rusty-colored water coming out of your hot water tap can indicate sediment buildup in the tank, corroded pipes leading to hot water taps, or corrosion of your tank’s inner lining. Hot water tanks can naturally rust over time due to normal wear and tear. Luckily, this issue can be fixed if it’s caught early enough. If the rust is extensive or there are signs of leakage, the tank will need to be replaced.
If you hear gurgling, popping, hissing, banging, or other strange noises coming from your water heater, it could be a sign of sediment buildup or a malfunctioning heating element. Flushing the tank may be a solution for sediment buildup, and it’s advisable to flush your hot water tank 1-2 times a year, to keep the appliance in top shape. If the heating element is faulty, it may need to be replaced.
If you need water heater repair or water heater replacement in your home or business, turn to the experienced plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our team of plumbers can install, repair, and replace all types and models of water heaters, including conventional storage tank water heaters and tankless water heaters. When you call us to handle water heater repair in your home or business, you can rest assured knowing your appliance is in expert hands.