Water heaters are an essential part of all homes. Energy efficiency, improved environmental sustainability, and temperature control over a longer duration are anticipated to drive demand for these products.
Most homeowners know that when their heaters start making strange noises, it’s time to call a professional. But what if there are no strange noises? What if the heater takes a little longer than usual to heat the water?
Or maybe you’re not getting hot water. In any of these cases, it’s essential to know the signs of water heater failure so you can take action and avoid a costly repair bill.
Here are the four signs of water heater failure, according to experts:
- The Water Heater Takes Longer Than Usual Time to Heat the Water
The ideal time for a water heater to heat up water is around 20 minutes. If your heater takes significantly longer, it might be on its last legs.
One way to try and fix this problem is by bleeding the line. It involves opening the valve at the top of the water heater (which releases any built-up sediments) and closing it once the water starts running out clear.
If the problem persists, you’ll need to call a professional to look at your water heater.
- No Hot Water Comes Out When the Taps Are Turned on
Some reasons for this problem are that the thermostat is set too low, the pilot light is out, or there may be a gas leak. If you have an electric water heater, the problem could be a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse.
To fix this problem, experts will use the following methods:
-If the thermostat is set too low, they will adjust it to a higher setting.
-If the pilot light is out, they will relight it.
-If there is a gas leak, they will repair it.
-If you have an electric water heater, they will reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse.
- Strange Noises Are Coming From the Water Heater
When you hear strange noises from your water heater, it could signify a water heater failure. You might hear banging, rumbling, or even popping sounds. These sounds occur due to sediment buildup in the tank. Sediment can cause the burner to overheat and create hot spots. It can damage the tank and shorten its lifespan.
Professional plumbers can flush the sediment out of your tank and get it working correctly again.
If you’re hearing noises coming from your water heater, it’s best to call a professional plumber to take a look at it. They can diagnose the problem and develop a solution.
- The Water Is Discolored or Has a Bad Odor
Water discoloration and foul odor occur for several reasons, but the most common reaction is between the anode rod and water.
The anode rod is made of magnesium or aluminum and is used to help protect the tank from corrosion. However, over time, it will rust and can release metals into the water.
Final Thoughts
Plumbers use special tools like hydro jetting to clear your sewer line of clogs or blockages. If you have a water heater that’s starting to fail, it’s best to call a professional before it worsens. Ignoring the signs of failure can lead to a complete breakdown, which can be more expensive to repair.