Key Indicators of a Faulty Water Heater

When Does a Water Heater Need Service?

Some problems that homeowners will face are obvious, especially with the plumbing. If a pipe leaks, it will likely be found quickly, allowing owners to call in a professional. However, some problems can lurk out of sight long enough to become serious. Water heaters are essential plumbing appliances that provide hot water to the home. Apart from obvious signs of trouble like a total loss of hot water, there are other signs that water heater service may be needed. Here are three subtle signs that water heaters need plumbing professional attention. 

Utility Costs Are High

Heating and cooling a home make up the biggest portions of the monthly energy expenditures. However, heating water is a close second. Water takes a lot of energy to heat to usable temperatures, and water heaters are designed to do this as efficiently as possible. However, there are times when a water heater will cause bills to go up simply because it needs repairs. Owners should take the time to monitor their bills every month to look for spikes that may indicate a need for water heater repairs. 

Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of a water tank, causing efficiency to drop. Likewise, dirty burners or problems with the pilot lot may inhibit efficient energy exchange, resulting in higher bills. Calling for water heater repairs and remembering water heater maintenance every year can prevent these scenarios and restore lost performance to a water heater. 

Strange Sounds Are Coming From the Unit

Hearing strange sounds from the water may be difficult since the water heater is usually in a place that is not consistently occupied. However, the sounds a water heater makes are great indicators of its operational status. 

A water heater shouldn’t make much noise under normal operating conditions. Apart from quiet airflow from the burner or gentle ticking noises as the tank heats, the unit should be quiet. On the other hand, certain sounds are indications that water heater repairs are needed. Listen for problems like: 

• Hissing 
• Thumping 
• Rumbling
• Leaking 
• Squealing
• Whistling

These are all indicators that something is wrong. Calling for water heater repairs can restore lost performance and prevent further damage. 

Discolored or Smelly Hot Water 

All the hot water in the home passes through the water heater. When the water heater needs service, this may manifest in the quality of the hot water. For example, a water tank suffering from corrosion may allow oxidized metal to precipitate into the water. This can cause the water to become dingy, cloudy, or have a reddish hue. However, this effect may not be observed in the cold water. If the hot water from the tap is discolored, then water heater repairs are needed. 

Water heaters may also impart a smell to water in the presence of corrosion. Corrosion may allow water to react with the metals in the tank to release sulfides, making the water smell like rotten eggs. Additionally, if the water smells sulfurous, the tank temperature may be consistently too low, allowing bacteria to grow in the tank. 

About About Plumbing Inc.

About Plumbing Inc. has affordable and effective solutions for plumbing problems. Trustworthy technicians provide residential and commercial plumbing services to the highest industry standards. Call today for water heater repair and install in Jefferson County, MO. 

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