Issues with your Water Heater?
Until you run out of hot water or don't have ANY hot water, the water heater isn't something you give much thought to, right? It's in a closet or corner, sitting quietly. If it isn't sitting there quietly, you may need a water heater repair service, along with any of the problems we're going discuss here, like why does my water heater keep running out of hot water?
This problem can be one of the following five reasons:
- Multiple water-use appliances are being used simultaneously. The dishwasher is running, a load of laundry is going on, and you're trying to take a shower.
- Sediment build-up inside the water heater tank from the loose minerals that come from water, like rust and sand. These settle in the tank bottom and eventually, take up the space where water is stored and heated.
- Dip tube isn't working. The dip tube sends the cold water to the tank bottom so that it can be heated. If the dip tube isn't working, the water isn't heating. This can be replaced by a professional water heater repair service technician.
- The water is old! If your water heater is 10 to 12 years old and isn't heating water, it is time to replace the unit.
- The thermostat quits working. If you're running out of hot water, reset the thermostat by raising it one or two degrees. If that doesn't give you hot water, call a professional water heater repair service.
Can I use the water if my water heater is leaking?
If the leak is from the top or at the water connections, yes, you should still have enough hot water if the leak is small. If the leak is coming from the bottom or side of the tank, it is best not to use it. Instead, call a professional water heater repair technician. After inspecting the unit, they may advise you to replace the unit.
What to do when a hot water heater is leaking? Check the water connection and make sure they are firm. Then check the water connections on top of the unit and tighten them with a wrench. If the tank is leaking itself from the bottom or side, call a professional water heater repair service after turning the water off at the connections.
Can a water heater leak carbon monoxide?
It is well-known fact that any gas-powered appliance is at risk of leaking carbon monoxide. The same goes for water heaters. Install a carbon monoxide detector in your home that can warn you if there is any carbon monoxide to be concerned about, then call a professional to inspect your home's appliances for the source.
How do you diagnose a water heater problem?
Here are four things you can do to diagnose problems with your water heater before you call a professional water heater repair service:
- For a gas water heater, check the pilot light. If the light is out, try relighting the unit. If it won't stay lit, call a professional.
- For an electric water heater, check the breaker. If it is off, flip it back on. If it goes back off, call a professional.
- If you're hearing strange noises from the water heater, try flushing the unit. The instructions for this can be found in the manual or online.
- If there is water on the floor around and under the water heater, this can be coming from the tank. But you should check the water connections at the wall and on the water heater. Try tightening these connections and if that doesn't stop it, you'll need professional water heater repair.
Is it better to fix or replace a water heater?
This can depend on the cost of the water heater repair and the age of the water heater. If the cost of the repair is 25% or more than a new unit, replace the unit instead of getting it repaired. The common recommendation of when to replace a water heater is when it has reached 10 years or older, it should be replaced regardless of the repair costs.
What are the types of water heaters?
The four most common water heaters today are:
- Storage tank water heaters, electric or gas powered.
- Tankless Water Heaters, which are not ideal for every home.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters.
- Solar Water Heaters.
As a homeowner, you'll want to get the longest lifespan with any investment you make, including the water heater. So, just how many years will a water heater last? The quality of the water heater and the quality of the water can factor into the lifespan. If you follow routine maintenance as recommended, you can get 12 to 15 years from a water heater, but the average lifespan is 8 to 10 years. If you want to ensure your water heater is taken care of, call our team at 909-280-4331 today!
