No matter the season or the temperatures outside, it is when we take an icy cold shower that we realise there is a problem with the one heating system that we always need to be working.
Taking your water heater for granted is very easy as you have become accustomed to having hot water at the turn of your tap. However, with the constant stress exerted on your water heater – working on-demand every day – it is bound to malfunction more often than not at the most inconvenient time.
Thus, it will help to know the tell-tell signs you need to call a water heater repair service specialist when your heater is about to abscond its duties;
- Drop In Hot Water Volume
Do you feel like you have just opened a tap directly from the North Pole? If this is the first time this occurs when there used to be a constant supply of sufficient hot water, chances are your water heater is losing heating power. The build-up of mineral deposits around the heating element may be the reason as to why it is not functioning correctly.
One of the most common signs that you need to either replace it or call for a water heater repair service is when either the water it is lukewarm, no hot water at all or the temperature abnormally fluctuates.
- Water Discolouration
If the hot water coming out of your tap is a rusty brownish colour, it may mean you have a problem inside your water heater. What this often means is there is too much sediment inside the hot water tank and also indicate to corrosion. You will need to call a plumber who will try to fix the erosion before it further damages your water tank.
When your water comes out cloudy, there could be a mineral deposit in your tank. Opting for a professional water heater repair services will also minimise the buildup and prevent future damage.
- Rumbling Sounds From Your Water Tank
Your water heater is one of the essential appliances in your possession, and it is normal to hear a little noise from it occasionally. However, if you hear loud cracking, popping or banging sounds that give you the fear your tank is about to burst, you will need to call for water heater repair service.
The noises could mean an increase in the water pressure inside the tank, sediment along the bottom of the tank, a broken expansion tank, cold and hot water mixing at the top of the tank because of a fractured dip tube or because of mineral buildup causing the hot water heater to overheat.
- Water Leaks
The last thing that you will want to see is water pooling around the base of the water heater. The pressure relief valve is the only place where water ought to be dripping from the tank and even then, you should not notice it as it should be plumbed.
It is a severe problem should water be dripping from anywhere else and a visible sign you need to have your water heater replaced as soon as possible to avoid water damage. Water leaks are usually an internal issue that is rarely fixable. In most cases, it’s better to replace than to repair.
- Corrosion
A water heater is designed to resist corrosion to a certain degree, provided they are regularly maintained. When corrosion appears on your water heater, the best solution is fixing it by replacing the corroded part, such as the heat exchanger.
In most cases, corrosion is a sign that you need to invest in a new hot water service, so a brand new heater is installed.
- Low Hot Water Pressure
There are a few things that can cause a sudden, gradual decrease in pressure. One of the main reasons could be mineral buildup, which blocks and reduced the flow of hot water in the pipes. It could be that the heaters distributions lines may be kinked or damaged, it is designed poorly, or its age is affecting the flow of water.
It is advisable to get the expertise of an experienced water heater service provider to perform an inspection to determine the cause of low hot water pressure and suggest a solution.
With a wealth of expertise leverage with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced techniques, Butler Plumbing offers world-class water heater service solutions. Call us today so you do not have to start your day with an icy cold shower.
