Common Maricopa Water Heater Problems: Troubleshooting Tips
As a homeowner, it's important to keep your household running smoothly and efficiently. The water heater is one of the most important things to look after because it's essential in our daily routines. However, sometimes water heaters can break down and ruin a day by shocking you with a cold shower. In this guide, we'll explore the most common problems that occur and help you troubleshoot them; so you will know how to tackle any issues that come up.
Common issues that can occur with a water heater
When your water heater isn't working right, it can seriously mess up your day. Here are a few typical problems that you might run into:
Water is cold
This could be due to a number of reasons, including a faulty thermostat or a problem with the heating element. Here's what you can do:
Make sure your thermostat is set to the right temperature.
If the thermostat is not working properly, get a new one.
Check for any damage or wear and tear to your heating element - if you see anything, replace it.
For gas water heaters, check the pilot light.
For electric water heaters, check your breaker box.
The tank is leaking
If your water heater is leaking, it may be due to a faulty pressure relief valve or a corroded tank. Here's what you can do:
Check the pressure relief valve and see if it needs replacing.
Take a look at the tank for any signs of corrosion or damage. If it's corroded, it’ll definitely need replacing.
The water is discolored
Discolored water? Your water heater might need flushing and descaling. Here's what to do:
Check whether the pressure relief valve needs replacement.
Flush the water heater using a mixture of white vinegar and water.
Look over the anode rod for signs of decay, and replace it if you find corrosion.
Contact an expert to inspect and perform a complete descaling treatment if required.
The water smells bad
Tank problems might be caused by dirty bacteria buildup. No problem, here's what you can do:
Have a professional inspect the tank and see if it needs to be replaced.
Flush out the water heater with a solution of white vinegar and water to help reduce any odors.
Noisy water heater
Are you hearing some weird sounds from your water heater? There are couple of reasons why that might be happening, such as sediment buildup or maybe something is loose. Here's what you should do:
Don't forget to flush out your water heater from time to time to get rid of sediment build-up.
Have a licensed plumber inspect all internal components and make sure everything is nicely secured.
Tank takes a long time to reheat
Tank heaters taking too long to reheat could be due to a thermostat malfunction, an undersized tank, or mineral buildup. Here are some things you can do to resolve the issue:
Make sure your water temperature is just right.
Swap out the thermostat if things aren't heating up.
Get a pro to check for mineral build-up and descale if needed.
If you're always running out of hot water, it might be time to upgrade to a bigger tank.
Low hot water pressure
If you are dealing with low hot water pressure, it could be due to a small hot water tank or a leaky system. Here are a few things you could try:
Don't forget to check the size of your tank and see if it can handle all the hot water outlets in your house. If it's not enough, go bigger.
You might want to let a pro give your plumbing a once-over to make sure there are no pesky leaks.
Lastly, check that pressure relief valve and make sure it's doing its job.
Low supply of hot water
If your water seems to be cooling down too quickly, it might be due to a janky thermostat, small tank, or gunked-up pipes. Here's what to try:
Check your thermostat to make sure it's working right.
Have an expert look over your water heater and give it a descale scrub, if needed.
Think about leveling up to a bigger tank if the current one just isn't cutting it.
How to prevent future water heater issues
To prevent future trouble with your water heater, you should:
Remember to inspect your water heater every now and then for signs of wear and corrosion.
Flush out the tank regularly to remove any sediment buildup.
Check all the valves and fittings regularly to ensure they aren't leaking.
Replace the anode rod every few years to prevent corrosion.
Call in a water heater professional when you need a full descale or annual servicing.
Choose a water heater size that is right for your needs.
Adjust the temperature to recommended settings.
Insulate the pipes.
Consider energy-efficient models that use less energy, but make sure you don't overfill them.
Repair any leaks quickly.
Keep a note of where the shutoff valve is located in case of emergencies.
To save on energy bills, try using your water heater on the lowest setting possible.
Keep a solution of white vinegar and water in your tank to help reduce any odors.
Avoid using chemicals to clean the tank as this can cause corrosion and damage.
Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when making repairs or servicing your water heater.
Get in touch with a pro for any repairs or maintenance if you're not confident in what you're doing. By following some basic steps, you can keep your water heater going strong and avoid any hiccups in the future.
How to know when to call
in a licensed plumber
If you want to keep your water heater running efficiently and safely, getting it inspected and serviced by a licensed plumber is key. A pro can diagnose issues before they get worse, which will save you money. They can even advise you on the best type of water heater for your home and offer energy-saving tips. Noticed any problems with your heater? Get in touch with a plumber ASAP to avoid expensive repairs.
What to look for in a licensed plumber
When selecting a licensed plumber, be sure to do your due diligence and look for:
Make sure the plumber is licensed and insured to work in your area.
Choose a water heater expert who has experience fixing and maintaining water heaters.
Check their website for ratings or ask friends for recommendations.
Compare prices to find a fair rate.
Ensure the technician is well-informed about new technologies and trends in the water heater industry.
Ask about any service warranties and emergency availability.
Communication skills are important to make sure you understand the work being done.
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Reach out to a licensed professional
If your water heater is giving you grief, don't worry. There may be several other issues that can cause this, but some of the most common are described here. To fix any problem and guarantee that your water heater is safe and dependable for years going forward, it's advisable to have a licensed plumber examine it. Following these suggestions and working through shared water heater difficulties will keep your household running effectively. If you require more assistance or counsel, contact a seasoned plumber soon. They could survey your water heater and recommend the most effective solutions to get it up and running.
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One of the most significant investments you can make in your home is a water heater replacement.
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PHONE:+(520) 317-8178
Don's Plumbing Repair
Maricopa, AZ 85138