Hot water heaters are essential appliances in most homes. They heat water for bathing, washing dishes, clothes and other daily activities. However, even with regular maintenance, hot water tanks will eventually require repairs. When your hot water heater breaks down, it can result in inconvenient and costly consequences. If you experience signs such as a continuous flow of cold water when the faucet is turned on or an overflow of water from the faucet, shut off the water supply at the source or simply use a bucket until repairs can be scheduled. Here are some common signs that indicate it’s time for a hot water heater repair:
When your water is too cold, the first thing you notice is that it takes longer than normal to get hot water from the faucet. The best way to determine if your water is too cold is by checking the water temperature at the tank. If the water temperature is below the manufacturer’s recommended level (usually between 120°F and 126°F), then your water heater is not heating the water to the correct temperature. If this happens frequently, contact a plumber as soon as possible to avoid further damage and make sure the water gets hot again as soon as possible.
If the flow of water out of the faucet is too fast, you have a blockage in the hot water line. This can be caused by several things such as tree roots growing into the pipes, a kink in the line from being over-tightened or a small animal clogging the line. If this is the case, you will need to call a plumber to repair the line.
If you notice a rotten egg smell coming from your hot water tank, you have a serious issue. The most likely cause of this smell is that there is an excess amount of sulfides in the water. To avoid this unpleasant smell, it’s recommended to install a carbon filtration system in the water line. This will trap the excess sulfides and will prevent them from entering your hot water tank.
If the water pressure at the faucet is low, it means that the hot water heater is unable to provide the water pressure required to operate the faucet. There are several reasons why this could be the case. The first is that the hot water pump is not turning on. Another is that the water main feeding the house is too old and will require repairs. If this is the case, you should contact a plumber as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If the water at the faucet is discolored, there’s a high chance that the water heater is leaking. If this is the case, you should contact a plumber as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
A continuous flow of water when the faucet is open is a sign that there is a break in the pressure relief valve. This is an important safety feature that protects the plumbing from excessive pressure build-up. If this safety feature fails, it can result in a significant amount of water damage to your home. It’s recommended to contact a plumber as soon as possible to repair the safety feature and avoid a larger issue.
It’s important to remember that you can’t DIY every aspect of your home. Some appliances are simply too complicated for the average homeowner to repair on their own. That’s why it’s recommended to contact a plumber for hot water tank repairs.