Common Water Heater Problems & Useful Ways To Fix Them

If you're like most people, you probably take your water heater for granted. You turn on the faucet and hot water comes out, so it must be working properly, right?

However, several common water heater problems can occur, and if they're not fixed soon they can lead to costly repairs or even replacement. So, let's discuss six of the most common water heater problems and what you can do to fix them.

Leaking

A leaking water heater can be caused by a variety of things, from cracks in the tank to loose connections. If you're dealing with a small leak, you may be able to fix it yourself by tightening any loose connections or replacing worn-out parts. However, if there is a larger leak, then it's best to connect with water heater repair services. The professional can inspect the tank, determine the cause of the leak, and replace any necessary components.

Additionally, corrosion can also cause a water heater to leak. If the anode rod—a metal rod that attracts corrosive elements away from the inner walls of the tank—has corroded, it may need to be replaced.

No Hot Water

If you're getting cold water out of the tap instead of hot, then your water heater is likely not working properly. This can be caused by several things, such as malfunctioning gas valves or issues with the pilot light. If you feel comfortable doing so, try to reset the pilot light or check the gas valve to see if it is functioning correctly.

On the other hand, if you're running out of hot water more quickly than usual, there could be several causes to consider. The first thing to check is your water heater's thermostat setting. If it has been turned down too low, then it won't be producing enough hot water. You can also try flushing out your tank to remove any built-up sediment, which can affect the performance of the heater.

Strange Noises

Water heaters often make some amount of noise as they operate, but if you hear loud bangs or rumbling, then that's a sign that something is wrong. These noises usually indicate that there is sediment buildup in the tank, which can affect its performance. Flushing out the tank should help to eliminate any sediment and reduce the noise levels.

Additionally, some water heaters come with a pressure relief valve, which releases excess pressure from the tank and prevents it from becoming over-pressurized. If this valve is malfunctioning, then it can cause loud noises or even flooding if the pressure isn't released in time. You should call a professional to inspect and replace the valve if necessary.

Water Discoloration

If the water coming from your faucets is discolored, then it could be caused by any number of things. The first thing to check is whether or not the pipes leading to and from the water heater are wearing out, as this can cause rust or other contaminants to enter the water supply. Also, make sure to check the hot water tank for any signs of corrosion or rust. If either of these is present, then it's likely time for a new water heater.

Of course, it's also possible that the discoloration is caused by something other than a water heater issue. If this is the case, then you might need to contact your local water utility to investigate and determine the source of the problem.

High Energy Bills

If your energy bills are suddenly much higher than normal or have been steadily increasing yet you haven't changed anything about how you use hot water, then your water heater may be the issue. An older, inefficient model is likely to use more energy than necessary to heat the same amount of water and can add a significant cost to your monthly utility bills.

The best way to fix this problem is by upgrading to an Energy Star-certified model, which will use less energy to heat the same amount of water.

Too Much Water

Finally, if it seems like you're using up more water than usual on your water bill, then there could be a few possible causes. One possibility is that there is a slow leak in one of the pipes or connections leading from your hot water tank. This can create a small but steady stream of water that can add up over time.

To diagnose this issue, you should check the pipes near your water heater for any signs of leaking or dripping. If there are none present, then it's likely time to replace the tank itself as it could have a slow leak inside of it.



As you can see, several common water heater problems can occur, and often the first step in fixing them is diagnosing the issue. If you're experiencing one or more of these issues, then be sure to try out the suggestions listed here. And if you're still having trouble, don't hesitate to call a professional for help.