The 7 Most Common Water Heater Problems

One of the most invaluable appliances in your property happens to be the water heater. It is true that it is not in front of your mind each day, nor is it always visible. However, you depend on hot water that the water heater provides you just about every single day. So, it is evident that even a small problem with your water heater can cause a big disruption. The water heater not working properly can bring your life at your property to a frustrating and screeching halt. Thus, it is important that you are familiar with a qualified water heater repair Chantilly Company.

As a water heater not working effectively can cause big problems, it will be best that you understand a few of the most common and prominent reasons why your water heater has stopped working. If you are familiar with the problems, then you will be able to accurately diagnose the issue which will help you to take the appropriate actions by yourself only. For your better understanding, here are 7 most common water heater issues that you may face if you own a property that has a water heater. You will be able to know what caused the issue and what is the right way to deal with this problem at hand.

H2: Different Types of Water Heater

You must understand that not all water heaters are the same. For this reason, not all water heaters will be repaired the same way. However, they all tend to deal with mostly the same problems. Out of the different models available, the electric water heater is the most common and popular one. You can find some common problems and ways to fix the electric water heater here.

Tank Water Heater

It is highly recommended that you turn off a tank water heater before you go ahead with the troubleshooting process. If you have an electric model, then you must first switch off the heater at the service panel. After that, you need to use a con-contact voltage tester to make sure that there is no form of electrical current. On the other hand, if you have a gas model then all you have to do is turn the thermostat to the “off” position.

1. Water Leaks

The most common type of water heater problem that you will face will be water leaks. Eventually any water heater will start to leak; it is likely that the water will corrode your tank. It can even create microscopic fractures or cracks.

If you see the leak happening or coming from the top of the tank, then it may mean that your water connections are loose. On the other hand, if the leak occurred at the bottom, then you might be facing issues with condensation. This can be solved by turning up the thermostat. You can face problems like water spilling out from your pressure relief valve or overflow pipe as well. But this could be a sign of tank corrosion also. If that is the case, then you need to replace the water heater as soon as possible.

The other most common causes of water leaks are:

• Issues with ball valve. In such a case, you need to tighten the nut that is screwed in the handle.
• Stripped threaded nipple or loose connection can also be the causes. If the top of the heater is the original place of the water leak, then most likely you are dealing with stripped threaded nipple or loose connection.
• Most water heater repair companies will tell you that drain valves can be an issue as well. You need to make sure that the valve is shut properly. Do replace it when necessary.

2. No Hot Water

There are some reasons why a water heater is not providing insufficient or no hot water:

• Circuit breakers can be a problem.
• Dip tubes can be an issue as well. Replace it after draining the tank.

For gas water heater, you need to look out for:

• Thermocouple.
• Pilot light.

3. Water Too Hot

Some homeowners do not know that they are required to adjust the thermostats of the water heater in warmer months. This will make sure that the water will not become too hot during this time. If the thermostat is broken, then you need to use a multimeter in order to test them for continuity.

4. Water Heater running Slowly

If you notice that your electric water heater happens to be running slower than normal, then you may have a problem with the heating elements. With the help of a testing probe, you can check it out. You may have problems with thermostats as well. You need to check the multimeter if you are facing this.

5. Rusty or Dirty water

Another common water heater problem that plumbing repair companies face is smelly rusty or dirty water. It is a sign that the other rod that is present in the heater requires changing. You need to flush your tank after you have done the changing procedure.

Tankless Water Heater

Comparatively tankless water heaters do not face as many issues as tank water heaters. Next, there are some more mentioned water heater problems that are common. You need to understand that these problems can occur in tank water heaters as well.

6. Noise Production

If your water heater is making noise, then that means there is something wrong with the appliance. You need to check the pressure valve and look for leaks. Make sure that you clean the water heater often. Many times, the water heater tends to make noise if it is not cleaned. 

7. Blockage in the Exhaust or Air Supply

A problem suffered by gas tankless water heaters the most happens to be related to exhaust and air supply. You need to remove any kind of obvious blockages. You need to ensure that the heater can meet clearance requirements.

There you have it; these were 7 most common water heater issues that different types of property holders may face. Beside these mentioned one, there are far more problems that a water heater might deal with. To be familiar with them, do give this one a read. You can now see for yourself that this task of finding the root cause of the problem can get difficult. Thus, it is highly recommendable that you take help from a qualified water heater repair company. There are plenty of professionals that can provide you the necessary help in and around Chantilly. So, get in touch with us today!