Leaks, discolored water, unusual noises, a rotten egg smell…these are just some of the many problems associated with hot water heaters. To many, these symptoms of a faulty water heater can seem overwhelming. However, these problems can be fixed rather quickly when identified early. Read on for more information on these problems and how they can be repaired quickly and easily.
Rust-colored water means your hot water heater lining is eroding. To fix this, replace the sacrificial anode rod. This inexpensive device sacrifices itself by slowly decaying and protecting the water heater’s walls. Once a new rod is installed, it is important to flush out your water heater and add fresh water.
When your hot water heater releases a rotten egg smell, it is the result of a decaying sacrificial anode rod. The smell is caused by bacteria forming in the water supply. After flushing your water heater and purchasing a new rod, the smell should subside.
Sometimes a hot water heater will make unusual noises. This is because sediments build up in the tank and put a strain on the water heater. Flushing out your water heater will fix this common problem.
A defective temperature and pressure valve can cause leaks. Likewise, so can a combustion chamber that is rusting or accumulating water. For the former, a quick replacement should do the trick. If the combustion chamber has pooling or rusting, however, the water heater most likely needs to be replaced.
At times, the problem can be the quality of hot water your water heater produces. If there is a lack of hot water, it could mean the thermocouple needs replacing or the pilot light went out. Replacing the thermocouple or relighting the pilot will often be the remedy.
Now, if the water tends to run lukewarm, it usually means there is hot and cold water mixing in the water tank. Check for this by turning off the water supply to your water heater and opening the hot water faucet. If you see water flow, it means cold water from other appliances is mixing with your water heater’s hot water connection.
If problems persist, call a professional plumber. This could mean the causes are multifaceted or your hot water heater needs to be replaced. Remember to always research proper methods and your local plumbing codes before attempting to resolve any problems yourself.
For more information on hot water heater problems, visit elocalplumbers.com! If you are ready to learn how to install hot water heater, plumbing expert Scott Rodgers recommends calling a local plumber to learn plumbing codes in your area.
