When Do I Need to Repair My Water Heater?
Your hot water heater is a trooper. It works day and night to ensure a consistent supply of hot water for your home for showers, dishwashing, and laundry and asks virtually nothing in return.
The majority of the time, you likely don’t even notice your hot water heater as it diligently performs its daily functions in the background of your home, which is exactly how it should be. Once it starts becoming noticeable, it’s generally the first indication of a problem.
Catching problems with your water heater early on can save you a lot of money and frustration later. If you aren’t sure what to look for, this quick guide breaks down the most common signals you need hot water heater repair.
Water Heater Tanks
Standard water heaters are still the most popular choice for water heaters in homes. Still, despite their firmly seated reputation for reliability, they will eventually need a little help from you. Here are some of the most common indications your hot water tank needs repairs.
Inconsistent Water Temperature
Have you noticed lately your showers aren’t as hot as they used to be? Or maybe they start hot but change during your shower without you ever adjusting the setting?
These temperature fluctuations are often the result of mineral deposits. As minerals build up around the heating elements, they prevent them from doing their job properly. Water heater repair becomes a necessity to keep this problem from getting any worse.
Unpleasant Smelling Water
The water coming out of your shower and faucets shouldn’t smell. If it does, it could be an indication of an imminent water heater repair in your future.
A sulfur smell, like rotten eggs, is a good indication of an increased amount of sulfates. This is the result of a reaction between the anode rod and the water. A water heater repair professional will be able to diagnose this problem from a quick whiff. If flushing out the tank doesn’t work, they may recommend a replacement.
Strange Sounds
A rumbling sound coming from your tank is the result of a sediment buildup. Sediment in tanks is common. The result of calcium, minerals, and even dirt, this sediment collects at the bottom of your tank for years before it becomes problematic. Besides rumbling, keep an ear out for:
- Popping
- Banging
- Gurgling
All of these noises indicate that pieces of sediment are causing an issue. Whether they’re caught in the drain valve or have simply reached the point of taking up too much space in the tank, a water heater repair specialist will need to assess the problem.
Leaks
If you’ve noticed water on or outside your hot water tank, it’s time to call in a professional. Even if the leak is small, it’s just the start of something that could quickly get bigger. Contact a hot water heater repair specialist right away.
Signs You Need Tankless Water Heater Repair
Tankless water heaters continue to gain popularity for the limited space in your home they take up and the fast, hot water they provide. Many of the issues tankless water heaters may encounter are similar to those of their tank counterparts.
Inconsistent Hot Water or Water Pressure
One of the biggest perks of tankless water heaters is that you don’t have to wait for the water to warm up. If there’s a delay in your hot water, or the pressure is weak, it’s time for repairs. If these two things happen together, it’s an indication of a bigger problem with your heater and needs to be dealt with immediately.
Booming or Banging Sounds
Just like hot water tanks, tankless water heaters can take on sediment accumulation. As sediment builds up, it can start to make your heater noisy. A tankless water heater repair specialist can flush this out for you.
Poor Water Quality
Any smells or discoloration coming from your water is a good indication that your tankless water heater is having some issues.
Check with your local municipal water supplier first to ensure these water issues aren’t coming from the source. Once you’ve ruled that out, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a tankless water repair expert to restore your home’s water quality.
Professional Water Heater Repair in Franklin, IN
When it comes to problems with your hot water tank, it never pays to wait. Fortunately for Franklin, IN residents, you’ve got a friend in the plumbing business. For over 60 years, Kellie Plumbing has been a fixture in our community. In addition to prompt and friendly service, we pride ourselves on total customer satisfaction and a commitment to quality work. Contact us today for water heater repairs and all your other plumbing needs.
