Signs a Water Heater Is Failing and Needs Attention
Water heaters are valuable appliances in every home, providing hot water for cleaning, bathing, and comfort. In most homes, the water heater is relegated to the basement or utility closet, where it is seldom seen. This can make it hard to identify problems when they arise, leading to disastrous results for the family.
Learning the signs that a water heater is struggling can help homeowners catch problems and know when to call for water heater repair, maintenance, or replacement. Apart from noticeable problems like leaks and insufficient hot water, there are several other signs that indicate water heater service is needed.
High Utility Costs
One of the best things homeowners can do to find problems in their homes is to track their monthly utility bills. Water heating can account for the second largest portion of energy bills in a home, so a great way to identify problems with the water heater is to see if they rise. Generally, a home’s energy usage is fairly consistent month-to-month, so whenever spikes in the utility bill are noticed, it can be an indication of a problem that needs attention.
Not only does a malfunctioning water heater in need of repair raise the costs, but an aging water heater in need of replacement and a water heater in need of maintenance can also cause higher utility bills. So, if water heater maintenance has been neglected, this could be the cause of inefficiency, while if the home has an old water heater, this could also be the cause. If the water heater isn’t old and has been well maintained, it is likely malfunctioning.
Noisy Operation
Another way to spot problems with water heaters is to pay attention to the sounds they make. If any unusual sounds occur, it can indicate the water heater needs water heater maintenance or repair. It’s important to have these issues addressed before they get bigger and cause damage that requires water heater replacement. Some of the sounds that can indicate the need for service are:
- Banging: A banging sound could be due to a condition called water hammer, which is caused by too much pressure when the water shuts off or changes direction. The banging sound could also be due to sediment buildup in the water heater.
- Popping: Popping sounds can also indicate sediment buildup in the water heater. Maintenance is needed when there is too much sediment in the tank. An important part of water heater maintenance is having the sediment drained and flushed from the tank to keep it efficient and prevent corrosion.
- Hissing or crackling: These sounds are commonly heard in electric water heaters when they contain too much sediment. With gas water heaters, these sounds indicate moisture or water outside the water heater, possibly from a leak.
- Humming or vibrating: Humming or vibrating sounds can indicate the water heater has loose components, which may include valves or the heating element.
Calling a professional to assess the situation is the perfect place to start when any unusual sounds arise from the water heater. They can inspect the unit and determine whether water heater maintenance, repair, or replacement is needed.
Water Discoloration or Odors in the Water
A strange, metallic smell of the hot water and cloudy or discolored hot water can be signs of a rusted and corroded water heater. Corrosion can occur when maintenance is neglected, as several important tasks are performed during a water heater maintenance visit to help prevent corrosion. Besides draining and flushing sediment, the anode rod, which is designed to protect the water heater tank from corrosion, needs to be replaced once it wears out.
When these tasks are skipped, corrosion can occur, causing the tank liner to deteriorate and making the water heater more prone to problems and leaks. So, if the hot water is discolored or smelly due to corrosion, it is likely a sign that water heater replacement may be needed.
About JD Precision Plumbing & Air
JD Precision Plumbing & Air has been serving the Spring area since 2010. They provide honest pricing, hassle-free service, and proven methods. Call them for water heater services in Spring, TX.
