Water heaters are often overlooked when it comes to home maintenance, but they are essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. Knowing the signs that indicate your water heater may need repair or replacement can help you avoid further damage or inconvenience in your home.
1. Unusual Noises
Your water heater should be relatively quiet when running. If you hear sudden loud noises coming from the unit, it may be a sign that something is wrong, and you should have the appliance inspected by a professional. Common signs include clanging, rumbling, or popping sounds caused by water overheating and boiling in the tank.
2. Rusty Water
If you notice rusty or discolored water coming from your faucets and fixtures, it could be a sign that the interior of your water heater tank is corroding. This can lead to leaks in the future, so it’s vital to have a professional inspect and repair your unit if it happens.
3. Visible Leaks
Leaks in the pipes connected to your water heater are also a common indication of trouble. These leaks can be caused by corrosion or wear and tear on the hoses and other components, or they can be simply due to age. Failing to address leaks in a timely manner can lead to larger problems like flooding or mold growth in your home, so it’s important to call a professional plumber right away.
4. Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit
The pilot light helps to ignite the burner in older water heaters, so it must remain lit at all times for proper operation. If the pilot light keeps going out in your gas-powered water heater, it could signal a problem with the venting or other components.
5. Lower Water Temperature
If you start to notice that your water temperature is significantly lower than it used to be, you may need to have your heater serviced. This issue can be caused by a buildup of sediment in the tank, or it could indicate that the water heater is nearing the end of its life and needs to be replaced.
6. High Energy Bills
A sharp increase in your energy bills could also be a sign that your water heater needs to be serviced or replaced. Older models are generally less efficient than newer ones, so replacing an outdated appliance can save you money on your utility bills in the long run. What’s more, if your water heater is developing a problem like a leak or corrosion, it can cause the unit to become less efficient, driving up your energy bills.
While these common water heater issues can often be fixed with relative ease, it’s important to tackle them as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage and disruption. If you have any concerns about your water heater in Fountain Valley, CA, contact Carlson Plumbing to learn more about our water heater repair and replacement services.
