7 Top Water Heater Problems
Every home has a hot water heater that provides your home and home appliances with hot water. However, just like any home appliance, your water heater can experience various problems and maintenance needs.
When any problems arise with your hot water heater, it’s critical you have professionally licensed and trained plumbers investigate the issue. In order to treat your water heater promptly, you should familiarize yourself with the most common problems to best prepare for potential repairs.
If you experience any problems with your water heater, it’s crucial to opt for professional water heater services in Elgin, IL. This way, your home’s water heater works properly all season long.
Why Is Your Water Heater Important?
There is no denying that a properly functioning hot water heater is an essential component inside modern homes. Your water heater provides access to warm and hot water within minutes, so you do the dishes, bathe, and wash clothes with ease.
Plus, hot water is crucial during cold Illinois winters to keep your home, plumbing, and family safe.
Common Hot Water Heater Issues
Plenty of signs may indicate your water heater is experiencing problems that require immediate attention, but it’s always best to have a professional inspect your water heater. However, if you are unsure if you need repairs or not, take a moment to consider some of the most common water heater issues that occur for homeowners.
1. Water Leaks
Many different things can cause water leaks. Water leaks are incredibly common, but they can be caused by many components, like problems with pressure, rust build-up, broken valves, and issues with heating elements.
When inspecting your water heater for leaks, it’s crucial to check near plumbing connections and heating elements. If any of these areas are loose or too loose, it can lead to leaks.
Other causes of water leaks from a water heater include but are not limited to
- Faulty temperature valves
- Overheating
- Faulty thermostats
To get to the bottom of your water leak, you should have an inspection from a professional plumber to source the issue and repair it promptly.
2. Inconsistent Temperatures
If you do not have hot water coming from your faucets or appliances, this indicates a water heater problem. If your shower or other appliance doesn’t produce hot water, then it’s likely one component of your water heater may be malfunctioning.
If can only get cold water, there may be a problem with your thermostat or a heating element. In order to fix this problem, most plumbers will turn off the power and reset the breaker to check for fuse issues. Afterward, they will likely inspect the area and re-check the thermostat valve to guarantee it functions correctly.
3. Poor Water Pressure
If you notice fluctuating water pressure, it may be a sign that the aerator in your sink or drain is experiencing clogs. On the other hand, if you live in an old home, it’s likely just because your water pressure is less than modern plumbing.
What is more important to note is that your water heater should consistently create the same level of pressure. If your water pressure experiences a sudden drop or dramatic changes in a short period of time, then you need to have a professional plumber inspect your water inlet valve and other areas of your water tank for clogs.
4. Water Is Too Hot
Just like when the water is too cold, sometimes the water can be too hot. When this occurs, your water heater’s built-in thermostat is likely set at too high of a temperature. Most often, it’s recommended that you do not exceed 120 Fahrenheit for your water heater temperature.
This particular temperature is the best choice to ensure energy efficiency and help prevent any further issues with your water tank.
5. Pilot Light Problems
The pilot light is the part of the water heater that ignites, allowing the gas to turn into a flame and heat up your water. If your pilot light is not working, you cannot heat any water with your water heater.
One of the reasons why your pilot light may not be working correctly is the thermocouple. If this part of the heater has collected dirt and debris, it can cause it to work ineffectively.
Typically, this is a fairly quick repair that a plumber can do within an hour by replacing the thermocouple or cleaning it off.
6. Strange Noises
Another common problem with water heaters is when they make strange or odd noises. If your water heater is making any sort of noise, it’s typically due to the build-up of various sediments. If sediment has accumulated in your water heater, you can have a professional flush the water heater system to help remove the buildup and prevent loud noises.
7. Discolored and Dirty Water
If your water is coming out of your faucet and shower with a rusty, pink, or gray hue, then it should be a cause of concern that your water heater is not working safely. Depending on the color, you can expect different repairs.
For example, if you have pink or rust-colored water, it may be due to corrosion and rust build-up. Any sign of discoloration or dirty water is worth mentioning to a plumber.
Hire Professional Plumbers in Elgin
If you need water heater replacement or are experiencing water heater problems, then it’s vital to enlist the help of professional plumbers who can get to the bottom of any issues before they become more costly repairs.
The team at Advantage Plumbing & Sewer can check your water pressure, water temperature, and pilot light to ensure your water heater is not experiencing any water leaks or common issues that can lead to long-lasting damage. If you have any clogs, a slow sink drain, or any other plumbing concerns, call the professionals at Advantage Plumbing & Sewer for a free quote.
Call Advantage Plumbing & Sewer today at (847) 416-8064 for professional plumbing services that you can count on in Elgin, IL!
