Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair – Don’t Ignore These Red Flags
Frequent water heater repairs indicate that the unit is nearing the end of its life and needs to be replaced. Each repair can cause additional wear and tear, leading to premature breakdown.
Water that smells and tastes metallic is a sign that rust is building up in the tank. A rusted tank should be replaced as soon as possible.
Water Heater Leaks
Leaks from your water heater often indicate that it needs repair or replacement. Pooling water near your water heater is a surefire indicator that a leak is present. This is often due to loose pipe connections at the cold water inlet and hot water outlet on the tank top. Rust on the nipple on the top of your water heater can also cause leaks, as rust insulates heating elements, making them work harder to heat your home’s water.
Other water heater leaks may be caused by a faulty temperature and pressure valve (a T & P valve). It’s essential to give your water heater a once-over every six months to ensure that there aren’t any problems with the T & P valve.
Unusual Noises
If you notice a strange sound coming from your water heater, it’s time to call the pro from water heater repair Duluth MN to check things out. Clanking noises indicate that your pipes are causing a “water hammer.” This happens when water flows suddenly stops or changes direction, and it can break and loosen plumbing joints and cause long-term damage.
A popping or rumbling sound can mean sediment has built up at the bottom of your water heater tank. This can make it more difficult for the burner to heat your water because the deposit acts as an insulator. Depending on the severity of the problem, flushing the tank or installing a new one could solve the issue.
Unusual sounds can also indicate an electrical problem, such as when you hear a buzzing sound from your unit. These problems can lead to dangerous electrical short circuits that may threaten your safety and lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Water Temperature Variations
If your water heater constantly needs repair, it could be time to replace it. Some minor repairs are regular over the lifespan of a water heater, but frequent repair needs can be a sign that your unit is reaching the end of its life and is no longer operating efficiently.
Running out of hot water is also a sign that your water heater may need to be replaced. If you’re experiencing this problem, contact a plumber immediately to prevent further damage.
Loud rumbling and banging sounds also indicate that your water heater needs repair. These noises are caused by excess sediment that has built up inside the tank. This sediment can cause the tank to rust and must be flushed out.
Brown or Rusty Water
If murky or rust-colored water is flowing through your taps, it is a sign that the water heater tank has lost its anti-rust coating. If a leaky water heater accompanies this, it may be time to call a professional for repair. Leaks and puddles near your water heater must be addressed as soon as possible because they could lead to massive flooding and damage to your home. Brown or rusty water also usually indicates a problem with corroded pipes in your plumbing supply, and it will likely require professional inspection to find the source of the corrosion.
Rust-colored water is not harmful to drink but can be unpleasant and inconvenient. It is a clear sign that you should call a plumbing expert as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for your water heater repair. Failure to do so could result in a permanent loss of water heater function and lead to costly damages to your home.
