No Matter What, Never Ignore These 5 Signs

1. Water heaters are essential in many households, yet they are often overlooked and not given much attention.
2. There are several signs that indicate when something is wrong with a water heater, such as temperature issues, a leaky faucet, or unusual noises.
3. If these problems arise, contacting a professional plumbing service is best to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
4. Additionally, some maintenance tips can help extend the lifespan of a water heater, such as ensuring proper air circulation around the unit and flushing the tank regularly.
5. Ultimately though, if a water heater is more than ten years old or constantly needs repairs, it may be time for a replacement.

No matter where you live, chances are a dependable water heater is essential in your household. Whether it’s for heating baths, washing clothes and dishes, or running appliances like dishwashers. Though often overlooked as an ‘afterthought’ appliance since they aren’t glamorous like other home fixtures. Water heaters are unique pieces of machinery that help make life more convenient.

Yet, suppose you aren’t careful with monitoring and maintenance. In that case, it can lead to severe issues that could cost you time and money down the line. Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing discusses some common residential water heater problems that you should never ignore if they occur. We’ll also look at some helpful tips to help with water heater repair and maintenance. So, stick around and learn how professional plumbing services can help. 

Water Heater Issues and What To Do About Them?

1. Temperature Issues

Suppose you notice that your water isn’t as hot or cold as it usually is. In that case, something may be wrong with the temperature control. It could be a faulty thermostat, corrosion on the heating elements, or a malfunctioning thermocouple.

You must inspect your thermostat to ensure that it’s functioning correctly. If not, contact a qualified plumber to repair the issue. Avoiding water heater repair can lead to exorbitant utility bills and a home safety hazard.

2. Leaky Faucet

If you’ve noticed water pooling around your tank, it indicates a leak. Corrosion, loose pipes, fitting, or an aging tank are a few reasons. Your best bet is to contact a plumbing service immediately to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

3. Unusual Noises

Strange noises from your water heater can often signal sediment buildup in the tank, leading to corrosion and can even cause your heating elements to crack. The best way to avoid this is by flushing out your tank regularly. The US Department of Energy recommends flushing a quarter of your tank every three months to remove sediments inside.

This simple maintenance removes built-up minerals, prolongs the life of your water heater, and helps reduce energy consumption. If the issues persist, it better call in a professional plumber to deal with it.

4. Muddy Water

When you turn on your hot water faucet and find that it produces muddy or discolored water, there is a good chance that sediment has built up inside your tank. It can cause an unpleasant smell in your water as well.

You should call a professional plumber to flush out the sediment from your tank, as this will improve water quality and also help reduce energy consumption.

5. No Hot Water

If you are not getting hot water at all, then it is likely that there could be an issue with the heating element or thermostat. In this case, you should immediately contact your water heater to be inspected and repaired by a professional.

Maintenance Tips for Your Water Heater

1. Ensure Proper Air Circulation Around the Unit

Good ventilation helps ensure that the water heater functions correctly, keep it from overworking itself, and prevents safety hazards due to inadequate airflow.

2. Flush Your Water Heater Regularly

Regularly flushing your water heater helps remove any sediment buildup, which can lead to poor performance and even cause it to fail.

3. Check the Anode Rod

The anode rod should be inspected at least once yearly for signs of corrosion or deterioration. If the anode rod is in poor condition, it should be replaced to prevent further damage to your water heater.

4. Check for Leaks

Any time you notice a puddle of water near your water heater, have a technician come out and inspect it for leaks or other signs of damage.

5. Adjust the Temperature Settings

Your water heater should be set to the manufacturer’s recommended temperature, typically between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. If your water heater is running too hot or too cold, adjust the thermostat accordingly.

When to Replace Your Water Heater Instead of Water Heater Repair

1. Age of the Water Heater

If your water heater is more than ten years old, it’s probably time for a replacement. Replacing it with a more energy-efficient version can help reduce your energy costs.

2. Frequent Repairs

If you’re dealing with constant water heater repairs, it’s probably not worth spending money on maintenance. It’s time to invest in a new water heater that is more reliable and efficient.

3. Facing Higher Utility Bills

As water heater age, they can become less efficient and start to consume more energy. Replacing it with a newer model will help lower your utility bills.

4. Rust-Colored or Strange Smelling Water

If your tap water is rusty in color or emitting a peculiar smell, you may develop corrosion in the tank. Bacteria can quickly grow there, impacting the quality of your water and making it hazardous to consume; not only could this lead to damage in pipes, but it also jeopardizes health risks. To stay safe, replace the heater swiftly!

Related: Minor Plumbing Repairs That Will Eat Into Your Savings If Avoided For Too Long!

Conclusion

In conclusion, paying attention to the signs of breakdown in your water heater is best. If you follow the tips above, you could save yourself from a much more significant expense. Regularly check for potential warning signs like strange noises, temperature inconsistency, and rust-colored or smelly water. With proper maintenance and swift action on repairs, you can extend your water heater’s lifespan and keep it functioning optimally throughout its lifetime!

Hire Qualified Plumbing Technicians For Water Heater Repair and Water Heater Replacement in Sarasota, FL

Suppose you’re struggling with water heater issues and require quality repair. In that case, Accurate Backflow Testing & Plumbing is your local plumbing expert in Ellenton, FL. We offer state-of-the-art residential water heater maintenance, repairs, and replacement services for all types of water heaters throughout the area. Our team is here to provide you with reliable plumbing service you can trust and have confidence in.

Get in touch with us or learn more about our scheduled backflow test.