Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It ensures you have hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning every day. But like all machines, water heaters can develop problems over time. Some issues are easy to fix on your own, while others might require the help of a professional.
This guide breaks down the most common water heater problems, offers simple solutions, and helps you decide when it’s best to bring in a licensed plumber for expert help.
1. No Hot Water at All
What’s Going Wrong:
This is one of the most common complaints. It could be caused by a blown fuse, tripped breaker, faulty thermostat, or a broken heating element. For gas water heaters, the pilot light might be out.
What You Can Do:
- Check your home’s electrical panel and reset the breaker if it’s tripped.
- Try relighting the pilot light if you have a gas heater (follow manufacturer’s instructions carefully).
- If the problem continues, the thermostat or heating element may need replacing.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure where the fault lies, our expert at Order A Plumber can inspect the unit, pinpoint the issue quickly, and carry out necessary repairs safely and efficiently.
2. Water Temperature Issues – Too Hot or Not Hot Enough
Possible Causes:
- Incorrect thermostat setting
- Faulty thermostat
- Sediment buildup in the tank reducing efficiency
DIY Solutions:
- Adjust the thermostat to 120°F – this is considered both safe and energy-efficient.
- If there’s still no change, the thermostat might be malfunctioning.
- Sediment buildup? Try flushing the tank to remove debris that might be blocking heat transfer.
Professional Support:
For stubborn temperature issues, having an expert from Order A Plumber inspect your system ensures the root problem is addressed without guesswork.
3. Water Heater Leaking
What’s Causing It:
- Loose drain valve
- Rust or corrosion inside the tank
- Cracked internal lining
- Excess pressure triggering the relief valve
What You Can Do:
- Check and tighten the drain valve.
- Inspect around the base of the heater for signs of rust or corrosion.
- Look at the temperature-pressure relief valve to see if it’s releasing excess water.
When to Act Quickly:
Leaks can worsen fast and lead to serious water damage. If you’re unable to find the source, it’s best to contact Order A Plumber, who can diagnose and repair the issue or recommend a safe replacement if needed.
4. Strange Sounds Coming from the Water Heater
Common Sounds:
- Popping
- Banging
- Rumbling
Likely Causes:
These sounds are often caused by sediment buildup inside the tank. As the sediment heats up and shifts around, it creates noise.
Fix It by:
- Draining and flushing the tank once a year to clear out debris.
- If the noise continues, it could point to deeper issues inside the tank or heater components.
Why It Matters:
Ignoring these sounds can shorten the life of your water heater. Calling in professionals like Order A Plumber can help ensure your unit is thoroughly cleaned and working at full capacity.
5. Rust-Colored or Discolored Hot Water
Potential Causes:
- Corroded anode rod
- Rusting inside the tank
- Corroded pipes
How to Handle It:
- Check if the discoloration appears only with hot water. If so, the anode rod is likely worn out and needs replacing.
- If the tank itself is rusting, a full replacement may be needed.
- If the pipes are old and corroded, a plumber can check and recommend upgrades.
Helpful Tip:
Replacing a corroded anode rod early can extend the life of your heater. For accurate assessment and repairs, trust professionals who deal with these problems daily.
6. Low Hot Water Pressure
What’s Causing It:
- Mineral deposits clogging pipes
- Sediment in the tank
- Narrow or aging plumbing lines
DIY Checkpoints:
- Clean showerheads and faucet aerators.
- Flush the tank if it hasn’t been done recently.
- Check if the problem is isolated or affects the whole house.
Professional Fix:
If low pressure is affecting your daily comfort, a licensed technician from Order a Plumber can inspect your plumbing and recommend solutions like line upgrades or sediment removal.
When to Call a Professional
Some water heater problems – like thermostat issues, corroded tanks, or gas line problems – are too risky to fix on your own. Having a professional plumber ensures the job is done safely and correctly. Our technicians at Order A Plumber can handle all kinds of water heater problems – from basic tune-ups to full system replacements.
Final Thoughts:
Dealing with water heater problems can be stressful, but early diagnosis and action can save money and hassle. While some fixes are simple, others require expertise. Regular maintenance and professional inspections from Order A Plumber can keep your system running smoothly for years.
FAQs
Q. What is the most common water heater problem?
A. The most common problem is no hot water, usually caused by a faulty thermostat, heating element, or pilot light.
Q. How do I fix my water heater problem?
A. First, check the thermostat, circuit breaker, or pilot light. If unsure, flush the tank or call a plumber for a full inspection.
Q. How long does a water heater take to heat up?
A. On average, it takes 30 to 60 minutes for a tank water heater to heat up, depending on the tank size and heater type.
Q. Why is my hot water heater running when not using water?
A. It could be due to a leak, faulty thermostat, or sediment buildup making it work harder to maintain temperature.