What Are the Most Common Problems With Water Heaters?

What are the most common problems with water heaters?

Water heaters are hard-working appliances. In use daily, over time the demand on them can lead to all kinds of issues. Below are the most common problems our plumbers encounter when it comes to water heater repair:

• Issues with water temperature: Usually water temperature complaints tend toward cold water, but if your thermostat is set too high, your water could come out scalding. Faulty thermostats and heating elements are the usual suspects causing cold water, although lack of power will cause the water to come out cold. Lack of power should be checked first by resetting tripped circuit breakers, replacing any blown fuses and checking power switches. Check the thermostat setting if the water is too hot. Ideally, the thermostat should be set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Leaks: Faulty temperature and pressure relief valves (T&P) often trigger leaks, although leaking water tanks, bad gaskets, and improper water pressure are common. If your tank is leaking, this is usually a signal that your water heater has reached the end of its lifespan and it will need to be replaced.
• Rusty or discolored water: Corrosion of the tank’s inner lining or a failing anode rod can cause water to look rusty or discolored. Failing anode rods also signify the beginning of the end of your water heater’s life. It will soon be time to replace the water heater when the anode rod is failing and corrosion is present.
• Strange noises: Odd noises usually occur because of sediment build-up. Flushing your water heater may help clear out the sediment. If flushing the water heater doesn’t help, contact a plumbing professional to determine if you need to replace the unit.

Is it better to fix or replace the water heater?

If you’re experiencing problems with your water heater, you might just need a simple water heater repair. But it might also be time to replace the unit. The decision to repair or replace it hinges on several factors. What needs to be repaired? If it’s a pilot light or a tripped circuit breaker, a stuck valve, a broken heating element, or a broken thermostat, then you’re usually better off paying for a repair.

One of the main reasons you replace your water heater is age. If it’s a standard tank unit somewhere between 10 to 15 years old, replacing it is probably a good idea. If you’re spending a lot of time and money on repairs, you’ll find it’s probably better to replace the unit and save money in the long term. Newer units are much more efficient and will often last longer.

What is the lifespan of a water heater?

Traditional standard tank water heaters typically last anywhere between eight to 12 years. Good maintenance will help your water heater last longer, but commonly as your water heater ages, key parts like the anode rod will begin to fail. The anode rod attracts corrosive particles away from the water heater’s inner lining but in time as the rod wears out, those particles settle on the water tank and usually cause it to corrode. This usually signifies the water heater’s last stages of life.

Tankless water heaters typically last about 20 years. Their lifespan usually comes to an end as well from corrosion.

What shortens the life of a water heater?

Your water heater is a pretty sturdy appliance but it gets used regularly. With regular use over time, sediment can build up inside the tank. This is especially true if you have hard water. When sediment builds up, it shortens the life of your water heater. To reduce sediment, it’s good to flush the tank ever so often. You only need to drain enough water into a bucket until it’s flowing clear, usually about two or three gallons. Make sure to open the drain valve slowly when flushing the tank.

Can I use my washing machine if my hot water heater is broken?

Because most washing machines use water drawn from the home, that means when you’re washing clothes in hot water, it pulls water from the water heater. If you’re planning to use hot water while doing laundry and the water heater is broken, you can still use the washer, as long as you don’t mind washing in cold water. That said, if the water heater is leaking, it’s best not to use the washing machine or any other appliances until the leak is repaired.

Tankless water heater repair and plumbing

While tankless water heaters often last longer than standard tank units, they can still malfunction. Like other water heaters, tankless units can experience problems with sediment build-up which will require repairs. They also usually have safety settings and shut off if they overheat. Overheating usually doesn’t signify a problem with the water heater itself, rather it usually indicates a plumbing problem like a clogged whole-house filter is present.