The water heater is one of the most essential appliances in the home; if you need help, you can save a lot of time. The good news is that most hot water tank issues are easy to fix or require minor repairs.
Common Hot Water Tank Problems
Hot water tank problems are almost guaranteed to happen at one point or another, especially if you live in an older home. These common hot water tank problems can ruin your day, so it’s good to know what they are and how to fix them.
Lack of Hot Water
Lack of hot water is the most common hot water tank problem that homeowners face. Most people are unaware that they lose money from their gas or electric bill and waste wastewater, which contributes to the need for more heating.
In addition, the hot water loses heat quickly when it has to travel through pipes or radiators before reaching its destination. If your hot water isn’t flowing as it used to, there’s a chance your water heater is struggling to keep up. A new one might be in order.
Insufficient Hot Water
Hot water tanks are not designed to run continuously, and no hot water begins to flow until the thermostat reaches its desired temperature. If your home has just been built, it may take a little time for your tank to warm up, which is normal. If the problem persists and you feel like your hot water isn’t getting hot enough, try adjusting the temperature setting on your thermostat.
Leaks
A variety of things can cause leaks in hot water tanks. They may be simple and quick to fix with a simple tightening of an existing part or indicate a bigger issue. Whatever the cause, leaks need to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Strange Noises
If you hear gurgling noises from your water heater, this could be a sign of sediment buildup. Sediment results from water evaporating from the tank, leaving minerals and other contaminants behind. This can cause rust on some older water tanks, but if it’s simply sediment, you can use a cleaning solution to remove it.
Rust and Corrosion
Rust and corrosion are undoubtedly two of the biggest problems with hot water tanks. Rust tends to slow down, stop and even reverse the flow of hot water. It is a problem that occurs when rusting starts on the inside surface of a tank. This happens because of poor maintenance and cheap manufacturing materials. If you see rust or corrosion around your water tank, it’s likely time for a plumber or technician to inspect it.
Pilot Light Issues
If you have an electric water heater, the pilot light is one of the most common problems. Over time, debris can build up in your plumbing, making it difficult for gas to flow into the pilot light. This will cause it to fail. If this happens, there are a couple of things that you can try before calling a plumber to get it fixed.
No Hot Water? Try These Steps First
If you are experiencing plumbing issues and cannot get hot water from your bathroom faucets, there is likely a problem with your water heater. On the other hand, if power but no heat is coming out of the hot faucet, there are some simple steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue.
Checking the Power Supply
When a hot water tank stops working, check the power supply first. If that is okay, it is probably an issue with the burner. Check the gas supply, and if it is okay, replace the burners.
Inspecting the Pilot Light
The pilot light is the ignition source for your hot water tank. If the pilot light goes out, your tank will no longer produce hot water. Inspecting the pilot light before calling a professional can save you money and time on your bill.
Testing the Heating Element
The heating element is the most commonly defective part of the hot water tank. If you have no hot water, try this: First, turn off the power to your water heater. Then, find your breaker, and flip it back on. Next, test the heating element.
Flushing and Draining the Tank
Frequent tank flushing is one of the best measures to eliminate buildup in your water heater’s tank. By flushing and draining your tank, you’re clearing out any sediment clogging the pipes and hoses within the system and eliminating their chances of causing future problems. Flush your water heater by using gallons of water to fill it with warm water, then drain it immediately by opening a hot-water line or light switch in your house.
Addressing Thermostat Issues
If your water flow is significantly reduced and you no longer have hot water in your tank, there is a significant chance that your thermostat has gotten stuck. To fix this issue, you may need to replace the thermostat or call a professional plumber to evaluate and repair the problem.
When to Call a Professional?
When it comes to repairs or installations at home, it’s crucial to weigh the options of DIY versus professional services. Knowing when to call a professional can save you time and money and potentially prevent further damage to your home.
DIY vs Professional Repairs
Are you facing a problem with your water heater and considering fixing it yourself to save money and time? While it might seem like a good idea, attempting a DIY repair can often lead to costly mistakes and accidents. This is why we recommend calling a professional plumber for any issues with your hot water tank.
Choosing the Right Professional for the Job
The first thing to look for when calling a professional for a hot water tank is the license. Anyone who provides this service must have a valid plumber license from the state where they are operating, which can be checked on the state website.
Another important factor is that you want a licensed plumber with good credit standing. Make sure you ask the company or individual about their recent experience working with your brand of a hot water tank, so they are fully qualified to perform any repairs or replacements that may need to be done.
If you’re searching for a dependable and trustworthy plumber, look no further than 180 Plumbing and Heating. Their team of professionals is committed to providing you with top-notch service and reliable repairs for your hot water tank.
