Are there times when you suspect your water heater may just not function as it used to? Is your water heater not providing the hot water you need? Then, it needs fixing.
There are problems that could be fixed by you but, take note! If these problems aren’t for DIY, then it is time to call a professional for help.
Here are six common problems and tips on how to fix them!
1. Water is cold
Either lack of power, a faulty thermostat or a faulting heating element is the cause of a cold water-producing water heater.
How to fix it?
You may start by removing the power as you suspect it by resetting tripped circuit breakers and replacing blown fuses. Then you may check power switches to ensure the water heater and its power indicators function properly. Lastly, check the thermostat to ensure it receives power.
Water is not hot enough
A warm, but not hot enough, water coming out from your unit is usually from an undersized water heater crossed hot and cold connections or a faulty heating element or thermostat.
How to fix it?
To check if it has crossed connection, switch off its water supply and turning on a hot water faucet. If the water still flows, you could have a crossed connection.
But don’t fix it if you have one. We recommend contacting a water heater professional to check the water heater elements thermostat. They can assess if your water heater is properly sized.
Water is too hot
When it is too hot, it means that you set its thermostat too high.
How to fix it?
Check your water heater’s owner manual to learn how you can adjust the thermostat temperature. The U.S Department of Energy advises homeowners to set the temperature at 120° F to achieve balance and efficiency.
Water heater is leaking
The following may be attributed to the cause of your water heater leaking:
- a faulty temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve
- improper water pressure
- overheating
- a stuck valve
- a leak from nearby plumbing connection
- loose heating element bolts
- a bad gasket
- a leaking water tank
How to fix it?
Check your unit if there are loose plumbing connections. If there is, tighten them to reduce leak. Just make sure not to over tighten them as it may cause damage to the unit.
Next, you can check for loose heating element bolts. Tighten them if needed. If it is leaking, we recommend calling a professional to replace the gasket.
Lastly, check if there are any leaks on or around the storage tank since it typically corrode from the inside.
Discolored water
Rusty water is one of the main causes for discoloration. Thus, rusty water indicates corrosion of your water tank’s inner lung which can be caused by a failing anode rod.
How to fix it?
Call your nearest water heater technician so they can determine the cause and the replacement of the anode rod. If not, then they may recommend replacing the unit instead.
Noisy water heater
If your water heater is creating a funny noise, then there may be sediments building up inside your water heater.
How to fix it?
You can flush the water heater if there are sediments inside. But if the problem persists and sediment buildup is too plenty to remove, then contact your local water heater expert. And so, they may ask you to replace your water heater.
Call SPS Plumbing Today!
If you are in need of a water heater repair or replacement for your San Jose CA home, you may contact our experts at SPS Plumbing.