A water heater goes unnoticed at homes until it stops working. And what can be more annoying than you wake up and find hot water not coming from the heater or it has inadequate water pressure? Well, these are only a few problems that your gas or electric water heater may encounter in the long run.
Thankfully, you can solve most of these problems at home with ease. So, here we will present the common water heater problems and their solutions to maintain the heater in optimal condition and enjoy the best of it.
The Common Water Problems and Their Solutions
Water heaters are available both in gas and electric types. Although they use different energy sources, their construction design almost remains the same. Hence, the solutions to the most common water heater problems are also more or less similar.
Here we will present the top 5 problems and solutions for your water heater. If you want to know more tips and tricks, visit this website.
No. 1: No hot water
Water heater not having hot water even after running for hours is the most common problem people will face. It results from the improper maintenance of your water heater. Also, the water heater is not big enough to hot enough hot water for your daily needs.
In cold climates, a frozen pipe can be the main reason for the water heater not having hot water. Also, the over usage of the water heater may force it to run out of water or deliver cold water when your hot water needs rise in your home due to different applications. Another reason for the heater not having hot water is improper maintenance and getting too old.
Solutions:
Firstly, check the water pipeline. If it gets frozen, we recommend investing in proper water pipe insulation to keep the water hot. Also, if your household needs increase or the machine gets too old, you may better replace it with a bigger one.
No. 2: Too hot water
This problem is completely the opposite of your previous problem. At times you find the water coming from the home faucets is scalding. It may even burn your hand. So, why does it happen? It might happen due to the improper temperature of the water heater thermostat.
If you accidentally set the thermostat to more than a standard temperature, you will receive scalding water coming from it.
Solution:
You need to reduce the thermostat’s temperature by a couple of degrees. You should set the water heater thermostat temperature at 120°F as a standard. Stop heating water for at least 2 hours before you reset the thermostat. Also, ensure that you have turned off the water heater, thermostat, and the connected power system for safety. Also, most electric water heaters will have two thermostats. You must adjust the setting of both the thermostats at the same temperature for the correct operation.
No. 3: Inappropriate water pressure
You might sometimes find inadequate water pressure coming from the faucets; you should check the water heater closely. Damaged parts of the water heater might cause such inadequate water pressure.
Also, water leaks or blocked faucets and plumbing might reduce water pressure. Before you proceed to fix the water heater, check the general water pressure in your entire home. If the water pressure is low, you need to fix it.
Solution:
Firstly, fix the water pressure relief valve. You need to turn the valve clockwise to tighten the screw and increase the water pressure. Also, check the leaks from the water heater to the faucet. If there are any leaks, fix them with plumbing tape or TEFLON.
No. 4: Water heater making an unusual noise
At times, the water heater will produce unusual noise. It happens mainly with the traditional heaters that have a tank. On the contrary, a tankless water heater won’t cause noise unless it is damaged or some parts are not performing well.
Some common causes of water heater noise may include a dirty fan, hard water that deposits calcium and leakage on the combustion system.
Solution:
For older water heaters, calcium deposits or rudiments at the bottom of the tank will cause noise. So, it would be best if you cleaned up the tank properly. If you hear a humming noise coming out of the heater, it indicates one or multiple loose parts. You need to inspect it closely and try fixing the loose part properly.
No. 5: Foul smelled water
If you turn on your water faucet to smell rotten eggs, it is an indication that the water heater isn’t working appropriately. At times the water might even smell like sewage water. It mainly happens when the anode of the water heater gets too old. The anode is found inside the water heater’s tank, drawing attention to it. So, the tank remains free of corrosion.
Solution:
Anode inside the water heater actually works rightly for 3 to 5 years. Thus, you need to replace the anode if it gets too old. For this, turn off the water heater and power source. Drain the heater properly and remove the older anode with a socket or adjusting wrench. Then, replace it with the newer anode.
Final Words
Usually, a water heater is long-lasting and should last well over ten years. However, due to inadequate maintenance or defects, it may show signs of malfunctioning. The five problems of the water heater that we described here will help you better combat the solution. If you, however, lack the confidence to replace the anode or reset the thermostat, you can always see help from a plumbing professional.
