As a homeowner, a water heater is one of the most essential devices you need. The primary benefit of owning a water heater is producing hot water, especially during cold winter months. However, over time, your water heater might not work as it should. Many people immediately call a professional, but some issues can be easily fixed by yourself. In this article, you’ll learn about some common water heater problems and how you can resolve them yourself.
1. Water Heater Leaks
Water heater leaks are one of the most common issues. They often result from poor plumbing or leaking valves, which can be difficult to detect.
How to fix it:
- First, inspect the leak to determine if it’s from an outlet or inlet pipe. If the water is cold, it’s likely an inlet pipe, but if it’s warm, then it’s an outlet pipe.
- To fix the leak, use a wrench to tighten the loose pipe connections.
2. No Hot Water
If your water heater stops producing hot water, it might be due to a tripped switch, failed heating elements, or simply the heater not getting power.
How to fix it:
- Check if the water heater’s circuit breaker in the service panel has tripped. If so, switch it off and then back on.
- If the circuit breaker isn’t the issue, you may need to reset the high-temperature limit on the heater. Turn off the power to the water heater, remove the access panel, and press the red reset button.
3. Water Is Too Hot
When the water heater heats water too much, it can be dangerous, especially for unsuspecting family members. This usually happens when one or both thermostats are set too high.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the power supply to the water heater and remove the access panel.
- Ensure both thermostats are set to 120°F (or lower). If any are set higher, adjust them with a flathead screwdriver.
4. Condensation
Condensation is not primarily a problem with the water heater itself but occurs when water vapor collects outside the tank. This often happens in the winter or early spring when the water is cold, causing damage to the flooring around the heater.
How to fix it:
- Make sure the water heater is at the recommended temperature of 120°F (or lower, to 115°F).
- Disconnect the water heater and drain the collection pan underneath to catch drips.
5. Damaged Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature relief valve is a crucial part of the water heater and can be prone to damage from persistent leaks. A leak near the valve indicates it may need replacing.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the electricity and water supply for the water heater.
- Place a bucket below the plastic relief valve drain pipe, open the valve, and drain the water and pressure.
- Unscrew the plastic relief valve and screw a new one onto the water heater using Teflon plumber’s tape for a secure fit, then attach the plastic relief valve drain pipe.
6. Noise From The Tank
Noise from a water heater can be irritating and is usually caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This buildup causes the tank to overheat, leading to boiling water and resulting in high-pitched whines or low rumbling and popping sounds.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the power and water supply to the heater, then drain the water heater completely.
- Attach a garden hose to the valve at the bottom of the water heater, with the other end aimed outside.
- Open both the temperature pressure relief valve and the top of the tank.
- Once the water and sediments are drained, close both valves, remove the hose, and restore the water and power supply.
7. Rust-Colored Water
It can be frustrating to open your tap or shower and see brown, yellow, or red-tinted water. This is usually due to corrosion inside the tank.
How to fix it:
- Replace the anode rod located within the water heater tank. The anode rod is a metallic rod that attracts oxygen, preventing corrosion in the tank. It corrodes easily in the presence of oxygen, which is abundant in water.
Note:
If a problem seems too complicated to handle, call a professional. To help prevent water heater problems, consider regular maintenance and checkups, draining the water heater at least once a year, insulating pipes, and keeping the temperature within recommended limits.
