Learn About Water Heaters
Every house has a water heater, and every house needs one. This appliance is one of the most underappreciated in every house, yet it is important. So, when you have a cold shower waiting for you one cold winter North Carolina morning, your first thought is probably, “Guess I need a new water heater!” But maybe not; water heater repairs are possible.
What signs may indicate that a water heater repair or replacement is needed?
When it comes to a water heater that isn’t working, some possible issues with an electric-powered unit that water heater repairs are possible include:
- Blown fuse
- Cold and hot water connections are crossed
- The heating element is malfunctioning
- Thermostat quits
The common problems that gas water heater repair is possible are:
- The gas supply is disconnected
- The gas valve is broken
- The thermocouple has quit
- The pilot light isn’t staying lit
You can do some things, like checking the fuses or breaker box, checking the correct water connections, and relighting the pilot light. However, if you can’t successfully do them, call a plumber for a professional water heater repair service.
How do you troubleshoot a water heater problem?
How to determine the problems with a water heater depends on if it is electric-powered or gas-powered. However, the following are four common issues for either type:
- Thermostat Check
Electric or gas water heater thermostats should be set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the thermostat setting if the water isn’t hot enough or too hot. After 30-45 minutes, test the water again. If that doesn’t help, call a plumber for water heater repair service.
- Pilot Light Check
If you have a gas-powered water heater, check the pilot light. If it isn’t on, relight it if the gas smell isn’t overpowering. If the pilot light flickers or goes back out, you must shut the gas off to the unit and call a professional plumber for water heater repair service.
- Restart the Water Heater
If your electric water heater isn’t heating water, turn it off and wait 5 minutes. Then turn it back on, and after thirty minutes, see if you’re getting hot water. If not, call your plumber for a water heater repair service.
- Check the Breaker Box
Check the breaker box if you have an electric water heater that isn’t heating water. If the specified water heater breaker is flipped, flip it back to on and wait 30 minutes for the water to heat up inside the tank. If you still don’t have hot water, call your plumber for a water heater repair service.
What is the average cost of water heater repair?
This can vary based on the type of problem and between plumbers. Some may have a flat rate for electric water heater repair and a different one for gas water heater repair. Some charge by the house plus parts. The cost of the parts can vary between a thermostat, a gas valve, and other parts that may be needed for the repair.
How can I tell if my water heater needs to be replaced?
If you are experiencing any of the following six issues, you should shop for a new water heater. Repairing the current unit is either not possible, or the cost would exceed the value:
1. The age of the current hot water unit
Most hot water systems last between eight and ten years. The upper part of the unit should have a manufacturer’s sticker.
2. Discolored, rusty, or smelly water
Discolored or smelly water from the bathroom or kitchen faucet may be caused by bacteria or rust inside the water system tank. It can also be caused by a broken anode rod. This internal part kills bacteria and removes microorganisms from the water.
3. Rumbling and weird sounds
A water heater will make some sounds, but it shouldn’t be noticeable like banging, bubbling, cracking, gurgling, or popping. These are sounds when sediment has built up inside the tank, and the water can’t circulate as intended. If you don’t flush the system as recommended, this is one of the results, and it shortens the water heater’s lifespan.
4. Leaking or puddles
If you notice water on the side of the tank, make sure the water connections are firmly connected. If you see water pooling up on the floor, this indicates the tank is leaking. This is not a water heater repair issue; it must be replaced.
5. Temperature varies while running water
When you can’t find that ‘just right’ temperature, it inconsistently goes from cold to warm to hot and back again, it could be a water heater repair by replacing the thermostat. But depending on the age, it probably needs to be replaced.
6. A reduced water flow
If the water flow coming from the water heater is low, try a water repair step to flush the unit and see if that helps. If not, then you’ll need to replace the unit.
How often should I have my water heater inspected?
If you aren’t sure of the water heater’s age or if it has had repairs every year for the past five years, you should have it inspected once a year. Once you have replaced the water heater, you should schedule an inspection every 3 to 5 years until the plumbing technician advises you to replace the unit.
Saving Energy – Saving Money!
Can you save energy at the water heater? Yes, these seven steps can help you save energy, which will save you money:
- Turn the thermostat to 120 degrees. You can set it even lower if you’re out of town for a week or longer.
- When you purchase a new water heater, get the proper size for your household.
- Flush the water heater once a year to keep the sediment low.
- Insulate the water pipes going to the water heater, and if the water heater is exposed to an outer wall, invest in a thermal blanket for the tank.
All About Plumbing & Septic assists with water heater repair in Hendersonville, Mills River, and Asheville, NC. Call 828-552-5721 to talk to a certified professional.