Most of us havel faced it—a chilly morning shower, strange noises from the water heater, or an unexpected spike in the utility bill. But did you know that most water heater problems have simple solutions? We have put together a troubleshooting guide to help with the most common issues you are likely to encounter.
No Hot Water
Possible Causes:
- Tripped circuit breaker
- Faulty thermostat
- Malfunctioning heating element
Solutions:
- Reset the circuit breaker
- Check and replace the thermostat if necessary
- Inspect the heating element. If damaged, the water heater will need to be replaced
Running Out of Hot Water
Possible Causes:
- Undersized water heater for your home’s needs
- Sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank
- Broken or malfunctioning dip tube
Solutions:
- Consider upgrading to a larger capacity heater
- Drain and flush your heater to remove sediment
- Check and replace the dip tube if damaged
Water Discoloration
Possible Causes:
- Rusty anode rod
- Sediment accumulation in tank
- Poor water quality
Solutions:
- Replace the anode rod
- Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment
- Have your home’s water tested for excessive iron or other contaminents
Bad Water Taste
Possible Causes:
Old tank or decaying anode rod
Bacterial contamination for low tenk temperature
Solutions:
Check and replace the anode rod.
Disinfect your tank with a bleach solution and flush thoroughly.
Water Heater Noises
Possible Causes:
- Sediment build-up causing popping or rumbling
- Expansion and contraction of heating elements
Solutions:
- Drain and flush your heater to clear out sediments
- If the noise persists, consult a plumber
High Utility Bills
Possible Causes:
- Inefficient or old water heater model
- External leaks or damaged insulation
Solutions:
- Consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model
- Check for leaks and repair. Insulate the heater and pipes to conserve energy
Water On Or Around Water Heater
Possible Causes:
- Leaky valves
- Tank corrosion or damage
Solutions:
- Inspect valves and tighten or replace as necessary
- If the tank is corroded, it’s time for a replacement
If you’re experiencing water heater problems, call Grand Lake Plumbing and Heating. Our experienced plumbers can quickly diagnose the problem and recommend solutions for repairs or, when needed, water heater replacement.
