3 Signs There’s a Problem With the Water Heater
Of all the appliances in a home, few are as essential as the water heater. Anyone who’s had to go without hot water for even a day can attest to how much of a difference it makes – cold water just doesn’t cut through grease on dirty dishes, doesn’t wash away germs as effectively when washing hands, and certainly doesn’t make for an enjoyable bathing experience.
This is why it’s so important to recognize the symptoms of a failing water heater as early as possible. A sudden water heater breakdown could leave the home without hot water while homeowners wait for repair or a replacement. So this article will lay out three signs that the water heater is malfunctioning and what they could mean.
Strange Sounds Coming From the Water Heater
Some sounds from the hot water heater are normal (the whoosh of burner flames kicking on, the occasional ticking of check valves doing their job, etc.). But other sounds can indicate trouble with the water heater. Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds are the most common and usually point to sediment buildup inside the hot water tank. These noises are caused by steam and air bubbles heating up and escaping from beneath the layers of sediment.
Over time, this can damage the heat exchanger or the tank’s inner lining – the former is an expensive repair, and the latter leaves the metal tank shell vulnerable to corrosion which may require replacement. Water heater maintenance is essential to avoid this. During maintenance, a plumber can drain and flush the tank to remove any sediment and replace the anode rod (an anti-corrosion device inside the tank) if need be to prevent sediment buildup and tank corrosion.
Hot Water Is Discolored or Smells Bad
If homeowners have discolored or smelly hot water coming out of the taps, it’s a sure sign that something is amiss. If both the hot and cold water are affected, it may point to other plumbing issues, but if only the hot water is affected, the water heater is most likely to blame.
Too much sediment in the tank can cause water to appear cloudy or white. A corroded water heater tank can release rust into the water, giving it a reddish-brown tint. Additionally, bacteria can thrive in small fissures in sediment or cracks in the tank lining, which can give the water an unpleasant sulfur odor.
Foul smells or cloudy water caused by sediment can typically be resolved by flushing and cleaning the water heater. However, if the tank is corroded, repair attempts are usually futile, and homeowners will likely be better off getting a water heater replacement. It’s important to note that mineral scale, corrosion, and bacteria growth can also affect tankless water heaters, so homeowners should schedule water heater maintenance regardless of the type of water heater they have.
Water Is Leaking From the Water Heater
Another sign of trouble is if there’s evidence of leaks from the water heater, such as puddles, dried water spots, or actively dripping water. Some leaks may be caused by minor issues, like a faulty relief valve or a loose or worn pipe fitting. But if the leak is caused by corrosion or cracks in the water tank, not much can be done to repair it, as any repairs will only prolong the inevitable for a short time.
If homeowners have a leaking water heater, their best bet is to call a professional to diagnose the cause of the issue. With any luck (and if homeowners have stayed on top of maintenance), it will only be a minor problem with a quick fix. Still, they should be prepared for the possibility of replacing the water heater if the problem is severe enough. In either case, it’s always better to get ahead of the problem and avoid being stuck without hot water!
About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing
Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business serving Reno and the surrounding areas since 1986. They provide competitive pricing, upfront service, and a preferred customer program. Call them today for water heater repair and installation in Reno, NV.
