If your water heater is not functioning properly it can affect the hot water supply in your house in a number of different ways.
If you notice any significant signs of a defective water heater you should call for a professional right away. Given below are the 5 most common signs that your water heater needs repair service work.
1. You Run Out Of Hot Water Faster Than Normal
There are a couple of reasons why you could run out of hot water faster than usual. One common reason is sediment buildup inside the tank. The sediments and minerals present naturally in water can accumulate over time and settle at the bottom of the tank. This can usually be resolved by draining and cleaning out your tank.
Another possible reason is a malfunctioning heating element. Usually the lower heating element is most likely at fault since it heats the cold water directly. In order to fix the hot water problem, the heating element needs to be repaired or replaced. You should call a plumber to repair the water heater as this definitely isn’t a do-it-yourself type of problem.
2. Constant Temperature Changes In Water
It can be frustrating when the temperature of the water constantly fluctuates from hot to cold and vice versa. The most probable explanation is a malfunctioning dip tube.
A dip tube is an important part of your water heater which carries cold water to the bottom of the tank so it can be heated by the lower heating element. The heated water is then carried out through the top tube. When the dip tube malfunctions, the cold water mixes with hot water and results in lukewarm water. Another reason could be a broken pressure balancing valve which regulates the water pressure.
3. Strange Appearance Of Water
Sometimes the water has a brown tint or an appearance which is not normal. The most probable explanation for this is the accumulation of sediments and minerals like calcium and magnesium in the tank. They can clump up together and discolor the water.
If you find tiny particles of rust in water, that’s due to corrosion. The pipes which connect to your water heater have most likely experienced deterioration due to rusting which will affect the water passing through them. You should definitely get your pipes checked by a plumber.
4. Water Leaks
You shouldn’t ignore water leaking from your heater. Sometimes the leaks might be due to something minor like loose fittings or parts which need to be tightened. If the valves in your heater have issues, it will contribute to water leaks.
If the heater is set at a very high temperature, the pressure relieve valve will be affected due to high pressure. This can cause water to leak out. If the drain valve is not closed properly, you will experience water leaks. It can also be attributed to other reasons like corrosion or faulty heating elements. It is always best to leave the inspection to your plumber.
5. Continuous Gurgling Sounds
Continuous gurgling sounds can indicate excessive buildup of sediments, minerals or rust. If you have a water heater which is always noisy, you should get it checked right away. If you don’t get it checked, it can lead to more problems like damage of heating elements or water leaks and eventually you will need to buy a new water heater.
Conclusion
It is important to make sure you don’t ignore minor signs which indicate that something is wrong with your water heater. Minor signs can escalate to serious signs in no time which will cost you even more expensive repairs.
