How to Repair a Hot Water Heater?

A broken hot water heater is a serious home repair problem that can leave you without hot water and other essential conveniences. Luckily, most hot water heater problems are easy to fix. However, if the problem is more serious and requires replacing the unit, it’s best to hire a professional plumber to avoid any more complications or costly repairs in the long run. Fortunately, most home heating systems come with an integrated breaker box that makes it easy to identify the source of the problem. If your water heater is not working properly, there are a few things you can try before investing in a hot water heater repair kit. However, if the problem persists, keep reading for more information about the most common problems associated with hot water heaters and potential solutions.

Noise coming from the hot water tank

Hot water tanks are generally insulated, but they can make some noise when the temperature changes or if there is a blockage in the pipe. It might be possible for you to hear some clicking or other noises coming from the tank if the water is scalding hot, but if the tank is relatively quiet when the water is cold, then the problem is likely a blockage in the pipes feeding into the tank. This is a more serious problem that should be addressed by a certified technician, as you may be at risk for scalding or other injuries if the water starts to back up. If the tank is making some clicking or other noises that are not consistent with the flow of water, then the issue is likely a faulty heating element. You can try to remove the element to determine if it has broken, but you should only do so if you know what you’re looking for and have experience working on water heaters.

No hot water at all

If you are experiencing a complete lack of hot water, then you either have a serious issue with your water supply or a problem with your hot water heater. The first step is to check the water supply to make sure there are no leaks before plugging in a new water heater. If you are not experiencing leaks, then the problem is almost certainly with the water heater. There are a few potential issues that could be causing this issue, including low water pressure, a faulty temperature sensor, and a damaged tank. To start, you can try turning the water back on and then slowly increasing the flow until you can see if the hot water resumes. If the hot water returns after the flow is restored, then the problem is likely a low water pressure issue. However, if the water remains cold despite a full flow, then the problem is likely a faulty temperature sensor. If the water remains cold even after the flow is restored, then the problem is likely a damaged tank. You should not attempt to repair a damaged tank without professional help.

Drain pump fails to turn on

A broken or disconnected drain pump is a common problem with hot water heaters. If the tank has been in use for several years, then it might be time for a new model. However, if the drain pump is still connected and operational, then it might be possible to repair the unit. First, check to see if there is a power outage in your neighborhood, as this could be the reason for the failure. If the power is still on, then you can try pushing the reset button on the unit. If this does not work, then you can try plugging a hair dryer or similar device into the outlet to see if that works. If that does not work, then you will need to call a plumber to repair or replace the unit.

Thermostat malfunctions

Thermostats are notoriously finicky and can be prone to failure, especially if the unit has been exposed to extreme temperatures for an extended period of time. If the thermostat is faulty, it might be possible to repair it, but it is best to hire a professional to do so. If the thermostat is not repairable, then you can try replacing it with a new model. However, this can be a tricky process, especially if you do not have the proper tools and knowledge.

Thermostat won’t open the tank

Thermostats are notorious for failing, but they aren’t the only component that can cause problems. A stuck thermostat can be difficult to repair, but you can try pushing on the control box with a wrench or other device. If this does not work, then you can try pulling the thermostat out with a pair of pliers. It is important to remember that you should never open the tank with the thermostat unplugged. If the thermostat is not opening the tank, then you will need to replace it.

Water leaking from the tank

Water leaking from the tank can be a serious problem, especially if the water is damaging nearby property or causing health risks. If the leaking water is brown in color, then you will likely have a bacterial issue that requires the use of chemicals. If the leaking water is clear in color, then the problem could be a clogged strainer. You can try unclogging the strainer by using a cleaning solvent, but a clogged strainer can be hard to repair without a professional. If you still cannot find the source of the problem, then you may have a more serious issue with your water supply or a faulty water heater. In this case, you should definitely call a professional to repair or replace the water heater.