Homeowners all over the world simply dread the idea of one of their major appliances breaking down and needing repairs. But alas, it’s simply a part of your home aging and being a responsible adult. So every once in a while, our everyday appliances, like the trusty water heater, will need repairs.
However, it’s not always clear when we need to get on our phones and call up the handyman. So what exactly are you supposed to look for to know your water heater is acting up? Here are five signs that you may need to have your water heater repaired!
No Hot Water
This is our first sign because it is the most common reason you need to have your water heater repaired. There can be a lot of reasons why the hot water system isn’t working, so here are the top reasons why there could be no hot water.
- A heating element within the water heater may need replacement. This is not the easiest of fixes, so calling a professional should be priority one.
- The thermostat on your water heater is not adjusted correctly. It isn’t very difficult to adjust the thermostat. You can adjust your water heater temperatures with just a few simple steps!
- The tank may be too small for the amount of hot water you are using. This is a sign you may need to completely replace your heater. Growing families, lots of guests, can be simple reasons why you’re not getting enough hot water. It’s worth checking out in the long run.
- Your pilot light has gone out, or your circuit breaker has shut off. These too are simple fixes!
Water and Leaking Around the Water Heater
Leaking is NEVER a good sign. If you notice that there is a pool of water collecting around your water heater, it is definitely in dire need of repair. It can not only be a sign that your water heater is on the fritz, but it can be dangerous and harmful to your property!
Let’s say you live in Colorado, and you’ve spent a lot of money getting your cold weather gear together for those cold winter months. You decide to store them close to, but not touching, the water heater. Your water heater leaks, but you don’t notice water seeping into your fluffy coats and boot boxes! Now all those coats and jackets and boots are all RUINED!
If you notice water around your water heater, call up a professional to get water heater repair in Denver, or wherever you live, because something needs to get fixed ASAP! The stagnant water can also damage walls, floors, tools, closets, whatever is directly around your water heater! You can also use some nifty water damage prevention tips to keep your valuables safe, dry, and good as new if you store them near your water heater.
Metallic Smells
When your water is starting to get a little stinky, that’s a good sign you need to call someone! This is an indication that the tank for your water heater is breaking down and there are flakes and grime mixing with your water. This may call for your water heater to be completely replaced, but it may also be a sign that something else is happening inside the tank that needs to be looked at right away.
If your water starts to taste like the pennies and dimes in your pocket, call up a professional. Also be wary that that metallic smell may NOT be from the water heater, as many researchers have found that metallic smells aren’t always what they seem!
Heater is Making Noises
When your quiet water heater starts to make loud our grumbling noises, this is a HUGE sign that you need to have someone come repair your heater. There shouldn’t be any loud, clunky noises at all!
This is probably due to sediment buildup in your tank, that causes the heater to make unwanted and telltale noises. Call a repairman to come and flush your water heater. The professional service person can also check if there is anything more ominous happening as well!
Muddy or Rust Colored Water
If the water from the tap or in the shower is looking a little less than clear, it may mean that you have something rusting, or broken with your water heater. This is a clear, well, not so clear, indicator that you should get someone to look at the water heater immediately.
This rusty mess could happen for many reasons:
- Water heater is old and rusting.
- A valve or inlet could be old and rusting
- Pipes leading to and from the water heater are rusting
A seasoned professional will be able to ascertain the problem, fix it, and get you back to your crystal clear water in no time! It always helps to be proactive, and not regret not calling a pro down the line!
Hot, Hot, HEATER!
Being a homeowner isn’t always glamorous. The ups and downs your home can throw at you can be overwhelming! However, now that you know all the right signs, you can be prepared if your water heater is acting up! Don’t let your appliances get the best of you. These five signs will help you solve the mysteries of your water and keep your water heater running for longer!
