A water heater is an essential appliance that provides hot water for household use. However, like any appliance, it can encounter problems that affect its functionality. Here are some of the typical problems that we work on and how they can be solved by the homeowner.
Sediment Buildup
Sediment buildup is a common issue in water heaters, particularly in areas with hard water. As the water heater heats up, the minerals in the water settle at the bottom of the tank, forming sediment. Over time, this sediment can build up, reducing the efficiency of the water heater and potentially damaging the tank.
We recommend flushing your water heater regularly to remove the sediment buildup. This involves turning off the water heater, draining the tank, and refilling it with fresh water.
The thermostat in your water heater controls the temperature of the water. If the thermostat malfunctions, you may experience issues such as inconsistent water temperature or no hot water at all. In this case, replacing the thermostat is the best solution. This is a relatively simple task that involves turning off the power to the water heater, removing the cover plate, and disconnecting the wires from the thermostat. Then, you can install the new thermostat and reconnect the wires.
Heating Element Failure
The heating element in your water heater is responsible for heating the water. If the heating element fails, you may experience no hot water or insufficient hot water. To solve this issue, you can replace the heating element. This is a little more involved since it requires turning off the power to the water heater, draining the tank, disconnecting the wires from the heating element, removing the element, and installing the new one. Then, you can reconnect the wires, refill the tank, and turn the power back on.
The pressure relief valve is an important safety feature in your water heater that prevents the tank from overheating or exploding. If the pressure relief valve malfunctions, it can cause leaks or reduced pressure in the tank. The best option here is to replace the pressure relief valve. You’ll need to turn off the power to the water heater, turning off the water supply, draining the tank, removing the old valve, and installing the new one.
Leaks in the tank can occur due to various reasons, including corrosion, sediment buildup, or a faulty pressure relief valve. If you notice water pooling around your water heater or dripping from the pressure relief valve, it could be a sign of a leak. Unfortunately replacing the entire tank may be the only solution to a leak such as this. It is a more complex task that involves draining the tank, disconnecting the plumbing and electrical connections, removing the old tank, and installing the new one.
Water heater issues can range from minor to severe. While some issues can be resolved with simple DIY solutions, others may require professional intervention. It’s essential to regularly maintain your water heater by flushing it to remove sediment buildup and checking for any signs of leaks or malfunctions.
We recommend getting your water heater inspected annually by a professional plumber to ensure that it’s functioning correctly and to catch any issues early on. If you identify issues early, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure a reliable and consistent supply of hot water for your household needs.