Did you know that US water heater manufacturing is a $3 billion industry?
The industry is worth so much because more people are investing in their self-care. Nothing beats relaxing in a hot soothing bath after a stressful day.
Many people don’t know when their water heaters need repair, despite their strong reliance on them. Some call professionals when it’s too late and need replacement rather than repair.
Look out for signs that you need water heater repair services to save money. How fast you act on these signs determines whether a repair will be enough or if you’ll need to replace your unit.
What are the signs? Read on to find out.
You’re No Longer Getting Hot Water
Cold water should raise the alarm about the state of your water heater. The unit’s core function is heating water and storing it, as is with a tank water heater. Or water heating and passing it directly to your shower head if you have a tankless water heater.
You’ll need to assess the hot water tank parts if it’s not doing this or if it’s taking too long to heat the water. Pay attention to the burner or element, as they’re the most likely culprits for not getting hot water.
You’re Getting Cloudy or Rust-Colored Water
Rust-colored water may indicate a problem with your pipes or water heater. Getting rusty water when you have cold water running signals rust in your pipes. Getting the colored water only when running your heater signals issues with your unit.
All water heaters contain poles made of metal. Like other metals, this pole can rust when damaged, thus coloring your water. Find a water heater parts list as soon as possible so that you can check any relevant parts, as rust can cause health problems.
You also need to be on the lookout for cloudy water. Pour your hot water into a clear glass and observe how it looks. Cloudiness could signal mineral deposit buildups, which, if not removed, could cause blockages.
Your Water Heater is Leaking
Water may condense around your water heater because of temperature variations. You shouldn’t be alarmed when you see some water around your unit.
However, there’s cause for alarm if the water starts dripping and forms a puddle below your water heater. This could indicate that your water heater is broken. These breaks occur because of continuous metal expansion and cooling.
It’d be best to seek a professional’s help as soon as you identify a leak to prevent further damage. The professional will recommend the water heater replacement parts to buy.
Your Water Heater is Noisy
Your water heater can produce some mild buzzes and rumbles with age. This is normal and shouldn’t worry you, as all appliances tend to make some noises as they age.
Your water heater may need repair if you hear loud cracking or banging sounds. These noises result from continuous mineral deposit accumulation in your tank.
If caused by mineral deposits, all you need to do is call a repair technician to clean your water heater. If there’s a different cause, you may need to look at new hot water tank parts.
You’re Getting Low Water Pressure
You can adjust your water heater’s water pressure by opening or closing its shut-off valve. You may sometimes notice your water pressure getting weaker despite opening the valve.
This isn’t normal and could indicate mineral buildup in your tank or its outlets. The mineral buildup causes partial or total blockage in your heater’s elements. A plumber may recommend buying new parts depending on the severity of the blockage.
You Quickly Run Out of Hot Water
A working water heater will provide a continuous supply of hot water. You should be able to take a hot shower or bathe as often as you’d like. Running out of hot water could indicate an issue with your heating elements.
Most water heaters have two heating elements. The two have to be in good condition to supply continuous hot water. If not, you’ll need hot water tank repair as soon as possible.
Your Drain Valve isn’t Working
Your unit also needs repair if you can’t drain water through its drain valve. This is often a result of mineral deposit buildups that could damage your entire unit.
Depending on the buildup, you may need to buy a new drain valve or have it cleaned. The only way to prevent dealing with a similar issue again is to constantly flush out your hot water.
Your Water Heater is too Old
There’s only so much you can do to save your water heater. You may need to get a new water heater if your unit is too old or if you’ve had too many repairs done.
A standard water heater will serve you for eight to twelve years, after which you’ll need a new unit. The better you maintain yours, the longer it’ll serve you.
It’s best to start saving for a new one when your current one nears the eight-year mark. The last thing you want is to wake up one morning to a broken-down unit and have no plan.
Plan for Water Heater Repair if you Notice Any of these Signs
As is with any other appliance, your water heater will need repair after some time. How fast you act determines whether getting new parts will be enough or if you’ll need a replacement.
Early water heater repair saves you a lot of money, so you need to look for the above-discussed signs. Detecting something as simple as a leak in your water heater could cut the need for unit replacement.