A water heater that isn’t heating well enough to provide hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning can be frustrating. Like any appliance, water heaters can develop issues over time. The experienced plumbers at Grand Lake Plumbing & Heating have put together an overview of the most common problems and their solutions can help you determine whether you can fix the issue yourself or if it’s time to call a professional plumber.
No Hot Water
If your water heater isn’t producing hot water, the cause depends on whether you have a gas or electric unit:
- Gas water heaters: A malfunctioning pilot light, thermocouple, or gas control valve can prevent the burner from igniting. If the pilot light is out, try relighting it. If it won’t stay lit, the thermocouple might need replacing.
- Electric water heaters: A tripped circuit breaker, a faulty thermostat, or a burned-out heating element can stop hot water production. Reset the breaker and check the thermostat settings before replacing the heating elements.
Hot Water Running Out Too Fast
If you find yourself running out of hot water quickly, here are the possible causes:
- Tank size: Your water heater might be too small for your household’s needs. A family of four typically requires at least a 50-gallon tank.
- Dip tube damage: A broken dip tube can mix cold and hot water, making it feel like your water heater isn’t keeping up.
- Gas supply issues: If the gas burner isn’t heating properly, the water heater might not reach the preset temperature.
For high-demand homes, consider upgrading to a larger tank or a tankless water heater.
Discolored Water
If your hot water is rusty or brown, it could indicate corrosion inside the water heater. The anode rod, a crucial component that prevents rust, may have deteriorated. If left unaddressed, this can lead to tank failure. Replacing the anode rod can extend your water heater’s lifespan.
Water Odors
A rotten egg smell in your water is often caused by bacteria reacting with the anode rod inside the tank. This can happen if the water sits stagnant for a long period. Flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod with an aluminum or zinc one can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, disinfecting the tank with hydrogen peroxide may help.
Unusual Noises from the Water Heater
If you hear rumbling, popping, or whining sounds coming from your water heater, excessive sediment buildup is the likely culprit. As sediment collects at the bottom of the tank, it traps water, which then boils and creates noise as it percolates upwards.
To fix this, flush your water heater annually to remove sediment. If you have hard water, installing a water softener can help reduce future buildup.
Water Leaks Near the Base of the Water Heater
A leaking water heater often signals a serious problem:
- Loose connections: Check the inlet and outlet connections for leaks.
- Temperature & pressure relief (T&P) valve: If the T&P valve is leaking, it may need replacement.
- Corrosion: If the tank itself is leaking due to rust, replacement is necessary.
For safety reasons, turn off the power and water supply before attempting any repairs.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While some water heater issues can be addressed with basic maintenance, others require a professional touch. Call a a professional plumber if:
- Your water heater is over 10-15 years old and showing signs of failure.
- You experience frequent pilot light issues or gas supply problems.
- There’s significant corrosion or leakage from the tank.
- You hear loud rumbling or popping noises despite regular flushing.
- Your energy bills are increasing due to inefficient heating.
Attempting complex repairs without the right expertise can lead to further damage, safety risks, or even void your warranty. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s best to get professional help.
Need Water Heater Repair? Call Grand Lake Plumbing & Heating!
At Grand Lake Plumbing & Heating, we’ve been providing expert plumbing services in Grand County, CO, for decades. Whether you need water heater repairs, maintenance, or a full replacement, our experienced team can help. Don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a costly breakdown—contact us today for fast, reliable service.
Call us now at 970-627-3441.
