Water heater problems can be costly. Performing simple maintenance tasks like looking at the temperature setting and checking the anode rod, (sacrificial rod that attracts corrosive sediment) can help you avoid repairs or a replacement.
The first thing you should do is check the breaker or fuse to make sure it hasn’t tripped. You can also reset the thermostats and the high-temperature cutoff switch for gas water heaters. For professional help, contact Denver Water Heater Repair.
Stepping into the shower to find lukewarm water instead of hot can be a real pain. This is often caused by a clogged pipe somewhere in the house. If this is the case, checking other sinks and showers to see if they also are experiencing this issue could help determine where the clog is located. Once the clog is found, you will need to consult with a plumber who can come up with a solution.
Another potential reason for a lack of hot water is that the heater’s thermostat is set too low. Depending on the size of your home and family, this may be an easy fix by simply increasing the temperature dial. If this doesn’t work, it is possible that the heater has a faulty heating element or a tripped limit switch.
If you notice that your water is smelling foul, or even just has a weird color to it, there could be an issue with bacteria inside the sediment along the bottom of the tank. This can be a problem with well water systems or when a lot of people use the same water in a short period of time. This problem can usually be solved by a professional who will disinfect the system and drain and flush the tank.
If you have a gas water heater and are experiencing this issue, the pilot light might be out or it may keep going out. Whether you have tried to relight it several times or are not able to get it to stay lit, this is a good indication that it is time for a professional to inspect and replace the thermocouple. This is a safety device that keeps the gas valve open when the pilot light is lit and closes it when the light goes out. If this has been tripped, it is likely that the problem is more severe and will require a replacement of the entire unit.
Smell or Discoloration
If you’re noticing strange smells or colors in your water, it may be time to call in a professional. These signs could signal a number of problems with your water heater.
Odors such as a rotten egg smell typically indicate the presence of sulfate-reducing bacteria in your water heater tank. These bacteria feed on sulfates present in your home’s water supply and emit the foul hydrogen sulfide gas that produces the rotten egg smell. Sulfate-reducing bacteria flourish in conditions that include a low temperature and long periods of unused water heater use.
Sulfur in your water could also be caused by a corroded anode rod inside your water heater. If you’ve noticed a rotten egg smell or the water is yellow or red in color, turn off your water heater and drain the tank. This will help flush away any corrosive sediment that’s built up in the bottom of your tank and may solve the problem. If not, your plumber will likely recommend a new anode rod to prevent further corrosion and unpleasant odors.
You should also consider investing in a water filter and/or water softener to ensure your home’s drinking and cooking water is clean, safe, and healthy. These products can remove dissolved iron and other metals that may be present in your home’s water supply.
Brown or red water in your showers or tubs is usually caused by rust. While it’s not harmful to drink, this rust can stain clothes and dishes, and it can leave a metallic taste in your mouth and throat. Water containing rust can also cause your skin and hair to become dull, dry and brittle. The good news is that this rust is not usually the result of a faulty water heater but rather the pipes leading into your home and/or the hot water heater itself.
If you’re concerned about the quality of your home’s drinking and cooking water, you should contact a plumbing contractor to schedule an inspection of your water heater. They’ll be able to determine whether a faulty water heater is the culprit and suggest an effective solution for cleaner, better tasting, and safer water in your home.
Leaks
A leaking water heater is a major cause for concern. Even small leaks can lead to extreme damage if left unchecked over time. Thankfully, though, there are some things you can do to stop the problem in its tracks.
First, turn off the power or gas supply to your water heater. Once you’ve done this, wait for the water tank to cool down and then drain it. This will help you determine whether a leak is due to normal condensation or something more serious like a failing valve.
Leaks from the water heater tank are often caused by rust or mineral buildup in the tank itself. These minerals can corrode the interior of the tank until cracks begin to form. It’s important to have the anode rod replaced every 2-3 years in order to avoid this issue.
Alternatively, the leak may be coming from the pipe fittings on either side of the water heater. These can loosen or corrode with time. This will also require a plumber to repair or replace them.
It’s also possible that the leak is coming from the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. This is a common place for leaks to occur, especially after flushing or draining the water heater. If this is the case, then the valve will need to be replaced.
Another common reason for a water leak is a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P). This is a safety feature designed to release excess heat and pressure from the water heater. It can malfunction if not regularly maintained and inspected, causing it to leak or overflow.
A final common reason for a leak is that the gas line connecting to your water heater has become corroded. This is another reason why it’s essential to have your water heater inspected and serviced regularly by a professional. While it isn’t guaranteed to prevent all problems, it will significantly reduce the likelihood of leaks and other issues. If you have noticed a puddle or other signs of a leaking water heater, then be sure to call a professional immediately.
No Power
When your water heater isn’t working, it can affect every household activity. It may also impact your energy bills and reduce the efficiency of your home. Luckily, most problems with your hot water heater are relatively easy to fix. However, it’s important to follow all safety precautions when attempting any repairs yourself. Electric water heaters are high-voltage appliances that can cause shocks if you aren’t careful. To avoid injuries, always shut off the power to your water heater before attempting any repairs. This means turning off the breaker for your electric water heater or switching off the gas valve on a gas model. Ensure the unit is cool before proceeding, and use a non-contact voltage tester to test any wires before touching them.
If your water heater doesn’t turn on, it could be due to a broken heating element or a tripped pilot light. First, make sure the unit is getting power by checking its circuit breaker in the service panel. If the breaker is turned off, it may need to reset or be replaced. If the breaker is in the on position, it’s likely a simple problem such as a faulty thermostat or pressure relief valve. If you can’t find a problem with the breaker, try testing the heating element with a digital multimeter. Follow the manufacturer’s manual for instructions on how to test your specific water heater’s heating element.
Occasionally, mineral deposits can clog your hot water heater’s ignitor or thermocouple, preventing the unit from firing up. Our plumbers will typically recommend a cleaning or replacement to resolve the issue and restore your heater to full functionality.
A lack of hot water is the most obvious sign that it’s time to replace your water heater. If you’ve been dealing with a malfunctioning heater for a long time, a newer, more efficient model can save money on your energy bill and provide more hot water for your family’s needs.