Addressing Common Water Heater Problems

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Addressing Common Water Heater Problems

Addressing Common Water Heater Problems

Water heaters are one of those essential household items that benefit from DIY self-service and maintenance. With patience and know-how, many common water heater problems can be fixed without having to call a licensed plumber to help you.

Other issues might require professional plumbing services. 5 Star Plumbing is here to help answer your questions, so you can make an informed decision about what water heater repair service is best for your situation.

These are the most common water heater issues you may face as a homeowner:

Not Enough Hot Water – There are several issues that result in low amounts of hot water reaching your shower or faucets. Some issues are within your control, others require professional help from a licensed plumber.

Your plumber can help solve these common hot water issues:

Reduced incoming water pressure
Water heater thermostat set too low
Faulty thermostat or electrical heating element
Sediment buildup in bottom of tank
Faulty dip tube
Gas burner dirty or faulty
Water heater is old and needs replacement

No Hot Water At All – Whether you’re using a gas or electric heater, there are a handful of reasons why you’re not getting any hot water.

These include:

Water heater has no gas supply
Pilot light is out or malfunctioning
When there is a gas leak
When the breaker has been tripped
Faulty high temp cut-off switch
The compartment is flooded
Faulty or broken heating elements
Defective thermostat

Foul-Smelling Water – The most common odor problem with water heaters is a rotten egg smell that comes out of your faucets when the hot water is running. This odor is caused by an overgrowth of sulfate bacteria in the tank, when warm water is left stagnant for too long.

A less common problem is when you use a water softener and have a magnesium anode rod inside the water heater. The soft water breaks down the magnesium in the anode rod, which results in sulfate gas in your tank. If this is the cause, your plumber can replace the magnesium rod with one made from zinc and aluminum. 

If the smell is caused by warm, stagnant water, in many cases the water heater will need to be replaced.

Even after flushing the tank, the smell can still linger, causing the same problem. If both the hot and cold water coming out of your fixtures smells bad, the cause likely not related to your water heater.

Noisy Water Heater – The most common reason for a noisy tank is sediment that has built up along the bottom of the heater tank. When hot water bubbles up through the minerals and debris, the result is a popping or banging sound. To resolve this, you can drain the water heater and flush out the sediment yourself.

However, hiring a professional to assess your heater beforehand will help determine if the issue is with mineral deposits or a different problem.

For example, there could be debris on the heating elements or issues with the temperature or pressure relief valves, which can cause noise or additional damage to your heater.

Dirty or Rust Colored Water – Reddish or rusty water can result from corrosion of the water tank or issues with the anode rod. The anode rod protects the water heater’s metal lining, which prevents explosions and corrosion.

Anode rods last about five years and when completely corroded, will no longer protect the water heater’s lining. You can add years of life to your water heater by ensuring the anode rod is properly replaced and maintained.

If the water is not rusty but dirty or discolored, it may be because of sediment or scale build-up on the heating elements. If these issues aren’t solved, your water heater will need replacing once the corrosion gets serious enough to result in a leak. 

Get a Professional Water Heater Inspection Today!

The licensed and bonded plumbers at 5 Star Plumbing are ready to help you troubleshoot your water heater issues. We can also help set up a Maintenance Program, to provide yearly maintenance for your water heater.

There is no extra charge for service on nights, weekends, and holidays. Call 909-841-1057 for a quote!

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