One of the essentials in a home is hot water heaters, especially for those living in colder weather. However, we tend to take these for granted until it begins malfunctioning, ending up with freezing cold water! That’s why it’s crucial to maintain and replace your water heaters properly and when necessary.
But how will you know if it’s time to service your hot water heater? Read on as I show you the different signs to watch out for!
Five Signs It’s Time to Service Your Heater
Some homeowners won’t be able to know the signs their water heaters need servicing. If you can’t tell either, learn about these signs your heater needs repair or replacement:
- Lack of Water
When you expect to take a nice, hot shower, it gets disappointing when you don’t have heated water. This is actually one of the first signs your heater needs servicing, as heating water is its main function. Without it, then it isn’t doing its job and requires some form of repair.
However, there are some factors to consider, as the lack of hot water doesn’t always mean your heater’s at fault. If you have a large household, then it’s possible that your heater is incapable of providing hot showers for everyone, meaning you need a larger heater tank. But if ever you can’t get any hot water regardless of the time and who’s using it, then the heater may need its heating element and/or thermostat repaired.
Another sign is low pressure with your hot water, so if you notice that you have low water pressure; chances are your heater may be the culprit. When deposits are built up, it blocks off pipes connected to the heater, with your water losing regular pressure. Cleaning and flushing out your heater can help with these build-ups, remedying low water pressure or inconsistent heat.
- You Hear Odd Noises
Do you hear weird noises that aren’t usual with your water heater when using it? Then that means something’s wrong, especially when you have a modern water heater already.
Such models are built to perform quietly, which is why odd noises I can indicate that one or more of your heater’s parts aren’t working as well as it should. It can also mean that hot water is trapped in minerals, building too much pressure! Even older models, though not silent appliances, shouldn’t be making loud and clunky noises.
So if you hear any creaking, crackling, banging, or hissing noises, then it’s time to have it checked.
- There Are Puddles Leaking
When you see puddles of water around your heater’s base, then it’s time to act NOW, as this is the most alarming sign. The puddles are caused by too much heat, pressure, or strain, which can fracture or rupture your water heater, making it dangerous.
Switch off your heater, disconnect its power, then have a plumber visit to diagnose and repair the problem immediately. If ever there’s a hole or crack in the heater, then it requires replacement. But if the leak is caused by loose connections, then a good plumber can fix the issue.
- Discolored Water Coming Out and Doesn’t Release Sediment
Do you notice that your water still produces hot water well BUT, it looks darker? Then it’s another sign it requires repairing, as one of the heater’s parts or components is beginning to rust. But as much as possible, it’s best that you replace the heater’s tank, or at least, the affected part.
Besides this, your water heater can also produce sediment, which collects on the bottom of your heater. If you can’t drain the build-up properly (which you should do once a year), then it might be a problem with your heater.
If ever you experience or witness any of these signs, its best that you call a plumber immediately. They will inspect, diagnose, and fix the issue, may it be repairing or replacing the water heater.
Wrapping It Up
It’s crucial to ensure that your hot water heater to have a relaxing bath. By learning the signs when it’s time to service it will ensure its longevity and comfort. Now, the next thing to look into is to find companies like Hot Water Brisbane to service or replace your heater.
Hopefully, my list on the signs it’s time to service your water heater helped you out. So don’t wait any longer and check out your water heater to see if it needs maintenance now.
Do you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences when maintaining your water heater? Share it in the comments section below, all your thoughts are much appreciated.