Hot water. Everyone takes it for granted it’ll be there when they turn the faucet on or want to take a shower. It’s only at those moments when you suddenly don’t have it you’ll likely give your hot water heater any thought at all.
When you do have problems with your water heater, though, there’s no time to waste in dealing with the situation. Based on our experience, these are three of the most common situations requiring expert help.
Water Heater Repair – When You Should Call a Professional
Hot water heaters are a significant financial investment as well as usually found in tight spaces. That means when problems like the ones below occur, you’re better off (and safer!) calling a professional.
1. No Hot Water
This is the most common problem people have with water heaters, and depending on the type being used – gas or electric – the causes for it will vary. With gas water heaters, the simplest explanation is the pilot light has gone out.
This is not, however, something that should happen on its own and isn’t as simple to fix as just relighting the pilot light. Instead, it usually indicates a thermocouple has gone bad or a pilot control valve is faulty, both of which are best left to a trained technician to replace.
The same is true with an electric water heater which isn’t producing hot water as it typically means the heating element needs to be replaced.
2. Noisy Water Heater
Does your water heater make rumbling or popping sounds when it comes on? If so, the problem is likely related to sediment at the bottom of the tank, especially if you’re using hard water.With a gas heater, these noises are caused by water boiling under the sediment. With electric water heaters, if sediment is covering the heating element, these sounds are the sediment being directly burned by the heating element.
Either situation will shorten the life of the water heater because the sediment retains heat and raises the temperature in the tank higher than it should be. Over time, this weakens both the interior lining and the tank itself and can result in leaks.Having a professional drain and refill the water should take care of this.
3. Leaking Water Heater
Once your water heater springs a leak, it’s simple: It’s time to buy a new one right away. There’s no safe or effective way to repair leaks, and the last thing you want is 30-60 gallons of water dumped on the floor. This does, however, lead to another consideration.
It’s a good idea to have a drain pan installed under your water heater with a drain line running outside the house. That way, if there is a catastrophic failure, interior water damage will be minimized.
Water Heater Repair and Preventive Maintenance
Regular preventive maintenance will help you avoid needless problems and extend the life of your water heater, so you’re not stuck with a large water heater repair bill. You’ll want a professional to check the entire system, flush the tank, and inspect the anode rod.
Scheduling this annually means you’ll be even less likely to suddenly find yourself without hot water.
Need help with your water heater in Plano, TX? Call Hutchins Plumbing & Air Conditioning today!
