Your water heater just works in the background, rarely making noise or raising a fuss, and it slips into the old adage of being out of sight, out of mind. So when you start realizing there might be a problem with your water heater, it stands out front and center. If you’ve started noticing performance changes, pay attention to visible signs such as water leaks, corrosion, or unusual noises, as these can indicate underlying issues that need attention.
We service water heaters in Medina, OH all the time and know exactly what signs you should be looking out for to make sure your water heater doesn’t slip into complete disrepair. Routine maintenance is crucial for identifying and addressing issues early, helping to prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your system. Homeowners should call a professional for water heater inspection at least once per year to ensure all components are functioning correctly and to catch potential problems early. DIY maintenance is suitable for basic tasks, but complex issues require professional assistance. If you’ve started noticing performance changes, read this guide on how to tell you need a new water heater an essential resource before calling for. Here’s what you need to know.
Introduction to Water Heaters
Water heaters are among the most essential appliances in any home or business, providing the hot water you rely on for showers, cleaning, and cooking. Whether you have a traditional gas water heater, an electric water heater, or a modern tankless water heater, each type plays a crucial role in your daily comfort and convenience. Gas water heaters are known for their quick heating capabilities, while electric water heaters offer quiet, efficient operation. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, deliver hot water on demand and can help reduce energy costs over time. No matter which type you have, regular water heater maintenance is key to ensuring your system operates properly, maintains peak performance, and delivers reliable hot water whenever you need it. In this guide, we’ll explore why heater maintenance matters, highlight key components, and share practical tips to help you extend the life of your water heater.
Water Heater Components
Understanding the key components of your water heater can help you spot issues early and keep your system running smoothly. At the heart of every water heater is the water heater tank, which stores and holds the water until it’s needed. Inside the tank, heating elements, either a gas burner for gas water heaters or electric heating elements for electric models, raise the water to your desired temperature. The thermostat monitors and controls this temperature, ensuring your hot water is always just right. For safety, the temperature and pressure relief valve (often called the pressure relief valve or relief valve) is a critical feature, releasing excess pressure to prevent dangerous situations. The TPR valve is a critical safety device that releases pressure if it becomes too high inside the tank. The drain valve at the bottom of the tank makes draining and flushing the tank easy, which is an important part of regular heater maintenance. Finally, the anode rod helps protect the tank from corrosive elements, extending the life of your water heater. This rod should be checked regularly and replaced if needed to prevent leaks and maintain the tank’s integrity. Knowing these key components and their functions is essential for effective water heater maintenance and for addressing issues before they become major problems.
Safety Precautions
Before you tackle any maintenance tasks on your water heater, safety should always come first. Start by turning off the water heater and disconnecting the gas or electricity supply to prevent accidents. Never smoke or use open flames near your water heater, as gas water heaters can emit flammable vapors that pose a serious risk. Keep the area around your heater clear of clutter and combustible materials to ensure proper ventilation and reduce fire hazards. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any heater maintenance or repairs, and if you’re ever unsure about a step, consult your water heater’s user manual or reach out to a professional plumber. Testing the temperature and pressure relief valve once a year is essential to ensure its proper functioning. Taking these precautions will help you stay safe while keeping your water heater in top condition.
Lukewarm Showers May Signal Heater Failure
When you turn on the hot water, you expect a consistent hot water supply, then temper it with the cold water in your shower. But if it’s just coming out lukewarm without any adjustments, that’s a pretty big problem.
This could be due to your heating element coming to the end of its life expectancy, or it could be a miscalibrated thermostat that’s requesting a different water temperature than you expect, which can affect the performance and efficiency of your unit. However, one thing is clear: something is going on with your water heater in one way or another.
Banging or Rumbling Sounds?
Every now and again, your pipes will make funny sounds. This can be due to temperature changes, pipes expanding in certain weather conditions, or just a bit of air in the pipes from time to time. It’s not a cause for concern when you hear a little knock or bump, but if it’s continuous, excessively loud, or doesn’t stop after a brief period of time, it could be a bigger problem.
Sediment buildup inside the tank can cause banging or rumbling sounds as water is heated. Sediment can accumulate over time and should be removed as part of regular maintenance. Flushing your water heater at least once a year keeps sediment from building up and extends the life of your unit. If not removed regularly, sediment buildup in the tank can rust through the steel, leading to leaks and other significant issues. To flush the tank, attach a garden hose to the drain valve and drain a few gallons of water to help remove sediment and prevent further issues.
If the sounds are rattling you or jarring enough to make you jump up from your seat, consider shutting down your water heater. This can be done from the circuit breaker if need be. Then call for repairs, and we’ll send someone out as soon as possible. Odd noises can be a sign your unit is aging out, here are key signs your water heater might be dying and may need replacement instead of repair.
Visible Leaks Near Your Unit?
You don’t want water leaking out of your water heater. Visible leaks or puddles on the outside of your water heater are immediate red flags, and they should be taken seriously before the leak gets worse. The quality of your water supply can contribute to corrosion and leaks, especially if it contains high mineral content. This isn’t to be confused with boilers, because those can sometimes have small areas of water around the pressure relief valve for various reasons. But your water heater? That’s not supposed to happen.
Before you assume it’s a leak, clean up the area with absorbent towels and inspect it again a half-hour later. Regular inspections are important to catch leaks early and prevent further damage. If you find more water, you’ll know it’s definitely coming from the water heater. Ignoring leaks can lead to premature replacement of your hot water heater. Leaks can originate from faulty valves, the pressure release valve, the discharge pipe, or the water drain. They are especially common in the tanks of traditional hot water heaters. That’s one reason to call for repairs or at least schedule water heater maintenance to prevent worsening issues.
Repair vs. Replacement
When your water heater starts acting up, deciding between repair and replacement can be a tough call. If your water heater is relatively new and the issue is minor, a quick repair can restore its performance and keep your energy efficiency high. However, if your heater is older, frequently breaks down, or the repair costs are adding up, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new, energy-efficient model. Upgrading can improve your water heater’s efficiency, lower your energy bills, and provide more reliable hot water. Consider the age, condition, and performance of your current unit, as well as your budget, when making this decision. Consulting a professional plumber can help you assess your options and choose the best path forward for your home’s comfort and safety.
When to Listen to the Warning Signs
Now that you know what problems to look for in your water heater, you’ll be better equipped to handle repair requests as they come up.
Preventative maintenance and regular maintenance are essential for extending your water heater’s lifespan and ensuring it is working correctly. Some important water heater maintenance tips include checking the TPR valve (a crucial safety feature and safety device), inspecting all electrical connections, and cleaning the air intake filter. Both electric heaters and gas heaters require regular maintenance for optimal performance. Adjusting the water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can save energy costs. Insulating hot water pipes with foam pipe insulation or using an insulation blanket can help reduce heat loss, prevent losing heat, and lower your water heating costs. Adding an insulation blanket can reduce standby heat loss by 25%–45% and improve water heater efficiency. Use a flathead screwdriver to adjust the thermostat and check pressure levels in pounds per square inch for safety. Flushing the tank until the water runs clear is a sign of successful maintenance. Following these steps will improve your water heater’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.
Contact Crown Group Ohio today to schedule your water heater repairs as soon as possible.
