How Do You Recognize Water Heater Problems?
Water heaters have become unavoidable necessities in most households, not only in colder countries where water is always too cold to take a bath in, but also in warmer countries that experience the onslaught of colder weather once a year. People with medical issues are also advised to take warm water baths, and it is also generally recommended to help with dealing with the exhaustion of muscles. In today’s world, immediate repair of water heater problems becomes absolutely essential, and why wouldn’t they? They provide heated water in minutes and work behind the scenes so much and yet we barely notice.
This is precisely why it can be a headache when it starts malfunctioning. After all, no one wants a cold bath in chilling temperatures. It is wise to keep on the lookout if you suspect something wrong with your water heater. The signs are rarely hard to miss, and if detected on time, you can get it fixed without leaving your home in turmoil. Here are a few signs to notice in case your water heater is malfunctioning, and the possible reasons behind it.
No Hot Water
The most obvious sign is to see the water heater failing in its one singular job: heating water. It might not be receiving current, or its heating elements might be faulty. There are too many variables in this case, and depending on the damage, it will need anywhere from some minor repairs to a full replacement.
Water Leaking From the Tank
You might notice that your water heater is leaking, due to loose heating elements or tank corrosion. In such a case, not only can your heater be faulty, but the leak can also give rise to mold that can sprout from the dampness. This can cause you to shell out even more money to clean up. If you ever notice your heater leaking, call a professional and get the water heater fixed as soon as possible.
Rust-Colored Water
You might also notice that the water has a strange color to it. This is probably because of the rust inside the water heater. Generally, heaters have an anode rod that keeps it from rusting, so perhaps the anode rod has failed and caused the tank to rust. In glass-lined tanks, excessive corrosion might be a reason as well.
Water Has a Metallic Taste
You might also find that the water has a metallic taste to it. As long as your water supply is not contaminated, it is safe to say that your heater might be at fault. The reason is similar: there is corrosion inside the tank that has led to the water being contaminated. Again, the anode rod might need to be replaced, but any damage to the tank can require more significant repairs.
Water Has a Foul Smell
It is highly advisable to not use the heater and to not touch the water at all, as it might be a health hazard. Flushing the entire tank can help, but if it is because of the failure of the anode rod, it will be advisable to call in a professional plumber for repairs. It is also advisable to wash thoroughly any area on the body that might have come in contact with the water.
High-Pitched Whining Noise
If your water heater is making unusual noises, like high-pitched whining or popping noises, it might be because of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, causing the bottom to overheat and causing the water to boil. Draining the tank can be a solution, but severe cases will require you to replace the entire tank.
Water Is Not Hot Enough/Not Adequate Water
Water not being hot enough or less water might be because your heater’s tank is too small to meet the household’s demands. However, if that is not the case, the heating elements inside the tank might have failed and might require repairs.
Water Is Too Hot
It can be equally frustrating if the water is too hot. This might be because the thermostat might be set too high. If that is not the case, it is advisable to get it checked for defects, as thermostats are generally set at a particular temperature and should not heat water beyond that.
Water Takes Too Long to Heat
If it is taking longer for water to heat up, something has to be wrong with the heating elements. Some of it will need replacement and fixing. It is also quite common for this to happen due to sediment buildup. It is best to have the tank checked to see if it needs repairs or not.
Importance of Water Heaters
Water heaters are not only comfortable but also have other benefits. They allow us to heat the water whenever needed. They conserve time that will otherwise be lost by manually heating it up. Manual heating has another issue: it takes a lot of fuel, which is not cost-effective enough. A water heater can drastically cut household costs and present itself as a cheaper alternative.
Even more, water heaters help conserve the environment by conserving energy and water both. Due to their low energy usage, water heaters have a smaller carbon footprint and thus are more environmentally friendly than manually heating water. It uses electricity to heat water instead of us burning fuel to heat, which guarantees safety and reliability.
Typically, water heaters last for around 12 years, which means they are a one-time investment for a decade of service, with occasional maintenance costs. Considering such advantages, there is practically no reason why anyone should refuse to install a water heater in their home.
Conclusion
Considering how essential water heaters are in households, it is imperative to take good care of them and to notice any signs of their decay. Taking good care of them saves money and goes a long way in the maintenance of the appliance. No other appliance can calm you after you come beach home from a tiring day the way warm water can, and who really wants to let go of such luxury?
