Telltale Signs You Need a Water Heater Repair

There’s nothing worse than hot water turning cold when you’re taking a shower or washing dishes! You may be quick to scold your other household members for using up all the hot water but was it them, or is your hot water heater on a decline? If this is a recurring problem, you may have a hot water heater repair on your hands.

There is more than one telltale sign that your water heater needs repair. Read on to see if you’re experiencing any of these problems with your water heater, and contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Rochester for water heater repair service today!

Wait, What Kind of Water Heater Do I Have?

There are about five different types of household water heaters; storage, tankless, heat pump, solar, and condensing water heaters are the most common. Not sure what type of water heater you have in your home? Check out this video to determine which type of water heater you have. It's also important to know how long your water heater has been around and the last time it was repaired. The life expectancy of your water heater depends on what type you have, but the range is anywhere from 11 years to 20 years.

Common Water Heater Issues

Insufficient Hot Water

A typical household water heater with a tank can hold between 40 and 120 gallons, again depending on the type. If your water is going cold or lukewarm, this could signal an issue with the thermostat or heating element. If your water doesn’t last as long as it used to, have a plumber come check out the water heater. It is possible that nothing is broken…you may just need a larger tank to keep up with your water usage.

Leaking Around the Water Heater

If you notice puddles around the floor of your water heater, call a plumbing professional immediately! You're at risk of the water heater bursting, which could lead to even more serious problems like flooding and electrical fires. If you notice large amounts of water near the water heater, refrain from running hot water anywhere in the house and call your plumber.

What’s That Strange Noise?

Yes, water heaters do make noise as they work to heat water. Pay attention to any unusual sounds that your water heater is making. Here’s a quick guide to the source of those sounds:

• Rumbling, banging, or popping = Excess sediment buildup. Get that flushed! An anode rod replacement may be in order too.
• Whistling or screeching = Pressure or temperature valve adjustments are likely your cure.
• Crackling or hissing = If you have a gas heater, you may have a moisture buildup. For electric water heaters, this sound may indicate an obstruction of the tank’s heating element.

Discolored Water

If your water is murky or tastes rusty when the hot water is running, that’s a telltale sign that your water heater is corroding. Not only does that look and taste bad, but the rusty water can also damage your appliances. Replacing the anode rod is likely in the cards for you!

When to Call The Plumbing Professionals

If you are not experienced with handling water heaters, and you are experiencing one or more of these problems, it's time to call in an expert! Handling a water heater repair on your own could make it worse, especially without a proper diagnosis.

If you are in upstate NY and need a water heater repair, contact the plumbing professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Rochester!