The Warning Signs: How to Know When Your Water Heater Needs Repairs
Even as one of the essential elements, homeowners don't often think about their water heater until it needs work. That said, there are countless indicators of when your residential water heating system requires attention. Paying attention to these early signs may save you on the expense of a new machine and experiencing water damage from a leak. Watch out for these signs for when your water heater needs repair:
Dirty or rusty water
If you start to notice that the water coming from your tap is brownish or red-tinted, there is a high possibility of corrosion, also known as deterioration, in your tank. However, you don't want to ignore rusty water as contaminants usually filtered out by the system have entered the water source. Not only can it make for an awful taste in water, but it can also lead to sickness. Ways to prevent this from happening are replacing the sacrificial anode rod in your tank every three to four years and sticking to an annual plumbing checkup.
Clanking or banging noises
Noisy plumbing should always be a cause for concern. In the case of a hammering or knocking sound, you likely have sediment buildup of mineral deposits at the bottom of the tank. This is also called scale or scale deposits. Sediment at the tank's bottom seems harmless at first, but after time bubbles can become trapped and create problems for your water heater. Not only does it have to work harder to heat water, but it also begins to damage the tank. Neglected noises from your plumbing can also lead to a severe leak or a burst tank.
Leaking from the water heater
Even a tiny leak wastes water and can cause other problems within your home. Leaks lead to water damage, rust, mold and almost always indicate that the place of origin needs attention. For example, pooling water around the tank's base or water seeping from the unit should communicate your need for water heater repairs.
Changes in the hot water supply
Fluctuations in water temperature are not always tied directly to the water heater. Such changes in heat can also arise from water pressure setbacks such as a faulty pressure regulator valve or a local cold snap. In addition, though, insufficient hot water often leads back to the water heater. For example, incorrect tank size compared to the overall usage of the property can create a hot water shortage. Just as likely, a culprit is a malfunctioning thermostat or the water heater itself.
An old unit
You can usually expect 10 to 12 years from a tank-based water heater. It's up to luck and good care after that period, though. If you have not replaced your water heater for more than a decade, it's time to consider a replacement. Tankless systems last longer than the traditional option at roughly 18 to 20 years. So switching out your old tank for a tankless system will add more years to when you need to replace the unit or expect repairs.
Whether big or small, repairs are good to catch in the earlier phases to alleviate the overall stress such issues put on your plumbing.
With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix Arizona and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company with thirty-five years of experience in plumbing. We offer 24-hour emergency service, From a simple leak to a complete plumbing renovation, we strive to be reliable, honest, professional and all of our work is guaranteed. Call 602-883-2787 today!
