Common Water Heater Problems

​If a water heater isn’t functioning correctly, there may be a power issue.

Many things can go wrong with an HVAC system, including the water heater. From time to time, a water heater may produce water that is too cold for comfort, too hot to use safely, or could leak and spill water all over the floor. Regardless, a broken water heater is a troubling and stressful experience, but it’s one that many people deal with eventually. Consider the following reasons a water heater may experience troubles.

The heater isn’t receiving power

​If a water heater isn’t functioning correctly, there may be a power issue. Just because the power is on in the home doesn’t mean the heater is receiving it. There are a few things that should be checked. A tripped breaker is the most common cause of power issues with a water heater. Check the breaker box first to see if this is the source of the problem. Switch the breaker off and back on again to reset it. If these solutions do not resolve the issue, it’s best to contact a technician to assess and resolve it.

There also might be a blown fuse. This issue is a little more complicated, as it requires replacement. In this case, it’s best to contact a professional with the knowledge and experience to provide quick repairs.

The thermostat needs adjusting

If the water in the house is much hotter than it should be, the water heater’s temperature may be set much hotter than necessary. Generally, thermostats are set at factory default, which is perfectly fine for most households. However, check the temperature setting if the water suddenly becomes too hot. Try the temperature reset button; if this doesn’t work, the thermostat is likely faulty. In this case, it’s best to call a professional for repairs. The thermostats on water heaters can be complex, so expert knowledge and experience are necessary.

The anode rod needs replacement

​An anode rod is a part that protects the rest of the heater from corrosion and damage. The anode rod corrodes before anything else, so it must be replaced regularly to protect the water heater. Two symptoms indicate a corroded anode rod. First, the water might start to have a sulfur smell, meaning that bacteria are gathering and sitting in the tank of the water heater, something that a functioning anode rod prevents. Second, the water might also turn rust-colored or brown when the anode rod is corroded. A professional should check out either of these situations. Corrosion is especially risky, as it can spread to the tank itself, a more significant problem than replacing a rod.

Outdated piping

​When the water heater only heats the water slightly, there might be a water pressure issue. If the heater is gas-run, water pressure issues likely stem from the piping. Old and outdated water heaters may be fitted with piping that is no longer compatible with modern plumbing. The pipes could be too narrow to let water through adequately, meaning they must be replaced with modern pipes. This task is far too advanced for the average homeowner, so professional help is required.

Sediment or scale buildup

A water heater that suddenly makes loud cracking and popping noises can be alarming. Whether the water heater is gas or electric, loud noises are most likely caused by sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank or scale buildup on the heating elements. This buildup is relatively harmless, but flushing the water heater is a good first step in solving the problem. If it doesn’t work and the noises persist, consider seeking a professional for an assessment.

A faulty thermocouple

​A thermocouple helps to measure the temperature in a gas water heater and keeps the gas valve open unless something goes wrong. The gas valve closes when the pilot light goes out. If there are problems with the pilot light, such as refusing to light or stay lit, the thermocouple likely needs to be replaced.

Water heaters are complicated yet essential machines. Many working components can experience issues, resulting in lukewarm, cold, or hot water. Most water heater issues are too complicated for homeowners to tackle independently, so professional help is required. Nonetheless, homeowners should be aware of the possible issues their water heater can have to identify problems quickly and avoid them altogether.

Just in Case Mechanical offers residential and commercial plumbing, sewer, water softener, electrical, lighting, and HVAC services Lancaster County. Call us today at (717)696-1511.