Is a Faulty Water Heater Holding Your Home Hostage?

How to Tell if Your Hot Water Heater Is Malfunctioning

When it comes to maintaining a comfortable and functional home, a water heater plays a pivotal role that often goes unnoticed - until there's a problem. People often take it for granted, enjoying the luxury of hot water at their fingertips. But like any other appliance, water heaters can also develop issues over time. Knowing how to identify the warning signs that a water heater might be in trouble is essential. This knowledge can save homeowners from unexpected breakdowns or a cold shower on a chilly morning! This blog will explore some key indicators that a water heater needs a plumber's attention.

Noisy Water Heater

soundsWhen water heaters are functioning normally, they don’t usually make a sound, so homeowners who hear any noises from the water heater should investigate and call for professional assistance. Unusual water heater noises are most often caused by sediment buildup in the tank. Pockets of air in this layer of sediment boil along with the water in the tank, causing popping, creaking, or rumbling noises that indicate the need for water heater maintenance. 

Most of the time, this can be solved by flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod during maintenance. However, more severe damage can be done if water heater maintenance is neglected because the water heater can corrode without replacing the anode rod or flushing the tank of sediment. Then water heater replacement might be the only viable solution.

Smelly and Discolored Water 

sinkAny changes in the appearance and smell of hot water at home may indicate a problem with the water heater. Water that smells strange or slightly metallic could be a sign of sediment buildup or corrosion in the hot water tank. The same is true for water that looks cloudy or murky or water that looks like it has a slightly orange or reddish hue to it.

These could be an indicator of a corroded water heater or pipes that have corroded. When corrosion occurs in a hot water tank, replacement often becomes the best solution. It’s essential to keep up with routine water heater maintenance to prevent corrosion and extend the water heater's lifespan.

Presence of Leaks

A leaking water heater is a problem that needs immediate professional attention. A leak in the water heating system - either in the pipes or the water tank itself - creates problems with dropping water pressure and may also lead to water damage. Homeowners who notice signs of a water leak, such as wet spots or dripping water, should have their water heaters inspected by a professional right away. 

Even if there are no visible signs of a leak, any decrease in water pressure that affects only the hot water from plumbing fixtures could indicate a problem with the water heater that needs to be fixed. The good news is that these problems can be resolved by a professional plumber, though whether this problem requires repair or replacement may depend entirely on how severe the damage is to the system. 

About 2 Plumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling

2 Plumbs Up Plumbing & Remodeling has over four decades of experience serving the Sacramento area since 1981. They provide same-day service, financing, and live answers 24/7. Call them today for water heater repair and replacement in Rancho Cordova, CA. 

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