Water heaters are indispensable appliances in our home. They provide us with hot water anytime. They last for years which make them great investments. However, we cannot disregard the fact that just like other appliances, they also malfunction, get totally damaged or encounter plumbing issues. Fortunately, we can rely on licensed plumbers for water heating repair services. Here are some of the most common water heater problems that you have to watch out for!
1. No Hot Water Heater
If your water heater isn’t supplying you with hot water anymore, the gas thermocouple, gas pilot or gas pilot control valve will be checked (for gas heaters). The valve may already be damaged and if it is, it should be replaced ASAP. The gas pilot control valve will be inspected as well. If it’s no longer in good condition, it should be repaired or replaced as well. Lastly, there are times when the thermocouple malfunctions, too. It may be re-positioned, tightened or completely replaced. On the other hand, electric water heaters that do not provide hot water may not be connected to a power source. It should be connected to a working electrical outlet and turned on.
2. Inadequate Hot Water Supply
If you’re not getting enough hot water, it’s possible that your needs increased and that you need to have a new unit with a bigger capacity. The current water heater you have may no longer sustain your needs. Consult a plumber to know your options.
3. Water Isn’t Hot Enough
If the water flowing out of your faucets and showers isn’t hot enough, the thermostat should be checked first. It must be set at 125 degrees Fahrenheit, the recommended temperature level. To keep the water hot, the plumbing supply pipes and the tank (if you have a tank-type heater) must be insulated. The tank should also be flushed regularly to remove the mineral deposits or sediments that have accumulated at the bottom.
4. Water Is Too Hot
If you’re getting scalding hot water from your fixtures, the thermostat will be turned down. Another solution would be to inspect the T&P valve and let some of the pressure go. If the T&P won’t relieve the pressure, it will be replaced.
5. Rusty Water
If the water you’re getting from your fixtures is rusty and you have a tank-type heater, the anode rod will be checked. In most cases, it is eaten away by corrosion which then causes the water to be rusty, too. The rod will be replaced to fix the problem.
6. Foul-Smelling Water
If the water smells foul (or smells like rotten eggs), the problem is caused by the presence of bacteria in the tank. The tank must be flushed and then sanitized with a peroxide solution.
We hope that you learned valuable info about water heating repair service and its cost. If you experience problems with your water heater, just call the best La Plata plumbers for water heater service. Plumbers 911 Washington DC provides emergency plumbing services in La Plata MD including water heater repair, faucet repair, HVAC services, gas system installation, bathroom remodeling and many more!
Learn about 2 gas water heater maintenance tips! Watch this video from Howcast!