Don’t Be Plagued by a Faulty Water Heater

3 Signs of Water Heaters in Need of Repair or Replacement

A hot shower is one of the great comforts modern plumbing offers. However, this wouldn’t be possible without the home’s water heater. Unfortunately, from time to time, homeowners will experience problems with their water heaters. Noticing the signs that the water heater is failing can minimize the discomfort and inconvenience of a complete breakdown and give the homeowner time to call for water heater services. Here is a guide that can help homeowners spot the signs of water heater failure.

Loud Noises

A water heater usually does its job without people in the home noticing it. At most, a water heater will make a rushing sound when the burner kicks on to heat water. Other than that, a water heater should be silent if everything is okay with it. When water heaters start to make more noise, this can indicate problems and a plumber should be called to inspect it.

Rumbling and popping noises are some of the most common abnormal noises a water heater will make. These sounds are typically due to excess sediment in the water heater’s tank. When sediment builds up in the hot water tank, it can interfere with heating and the water heater’s efficiency. Routine water heater maintenance is the best solution and prevention for this problem, as flushing the tank of sediment and replacing the anode rod on time will help protect the tank from corrosion due to sediment buildup and neglected maintenance.

Discolored and Smelly Water

Corrosion is a common problem in plumbing due to the use of different metals for piping and hot water tanks. In a water heater, a device called the anode rod helps prevent tank corrosion. When the anode rod is worn out and damaged, the tank loses this protection and can corrode.

A sign of corrosion in the water heater is discolored and smelly hot water, but the corrosion may also be in the pipes when the cold water is also cloudy or rust-colored. Routine water heater maintenance can help prevent corroded water heaters and protect the tank, improve efficiency, and extend the water heater’s life. However, water heater replacement may be the best solution when they are already corroded.

Leaking Water Heater

Another common sign of a water heater experiencing problems is a water heater that is leaking. Leaks can occur with standard storage water heaters as well as tankless water heaters. They may signify that the tank has succumbed to damage or corrosion and will likely need to be replaced.

Leaks may also be confined to fittings or valves on the water heater, which may only require tightening or repair to fix. When homeowners notice any signs of water heater issues, they should call a plumber who can determine the best solution to fix the water heater, whether it be repair, replacement, or maintenance.

About Hall’s Plumbing

Hall’s Plumbing has over two decades of experience serving Woodland and the surrounding communities. They provide flat rate pricing, budget-friendly options, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for water heater services in Woodland, CA.