There’s nothing worse than going to take a shower and realizing there’s no hot water, and common water heater problems are often to blame.
Water heaters work under a lot of pressure in your home, and when Utah’s cold winters come around they have to work overtime. This can lead to problems with your water heater during the months when you need it the most. Here’s a look at some of the most common problems water heaters encounter and what you can do about them.
Leaks
Leaking is one of the most common water heater problems, and it can be caused by a number of issues inside the unit. It could be a stuck or faulty valve, problems with the water pressure, loose heating element bolts, a bad gasket, or poor plumbing connections.
You can usually identify a leak by visually inspecting your water heater. If there’s water pooling or dripping around the unit, see if you can find where it’s coming from. Check for loose plumbing connections and tighten them. Check back in a few hours and if the leaking has stopped then you’re good to go. Otherwise, you should call a plumber to examine the water heater.
If the leak is coming from the water storage tank, that’s a good sign that you need to replace it. Tanks usually erode from the inside out, so leaking from the tank means it’s nearing the end of its life. Alternatively, you can replace it with a tankless water heater that will take up less space, give you more hot water than can be held in a tank, and take up less space in your utility room.
Problems With Water Temperature
Water temperature problems are extremely common with water heaters, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. Cold water that’s not warming up is often caused by a lack of power, a faulty heating element, or a malfunctioning thermostat. First, check to make sure the unit is getting power by checking circuit breakers, fuses, and light switches. If power isn’t the problem, a plumber will need to examine the water heater and make repairs.
If you’re having a problem with your water being too hot, the thermostat needs adjusting. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting the thermostat at 120 degrees Fahrenheit to save energy and avoid scalding while still having hot enough water.
Discolored Water and Odd Noises
Rusty-colored water is a sign that the lining inside your water tank is corroding. It might need to be replaced, but a plumber can tell you if it can be saved by replacing the anode rod. Odd noises indicate sediment buildup inside the unit, and flushing your water heater can help.
Quick Quality Plumbing Is Here
If you’re experiencing any of these common water heater problems, Quick Quality Plumbing can help. Our licensed and certified plumbers have experience repairing water heaters, as well as fixing any other plumbing problems that might arise. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Lehi, American Fork, Provo, and Orem, Utah, and everywhere in between. Contact Quick Quality Plumbing today for all of your plumbing needs!
