5 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

Problems with your water heater?  Sometimes things might not seem quite right, but we put them off, or we’re not quite sure if they’re serious enough for a repair or not.  There are lots of things that can go wrong with water heaters; a common problem is scale build-up which only gets worse over time.   Getting your heater looked at sooner can help to prevent costly repairs and replacements.  We’ll help you to recognize the signs that you might need a water heater repair and when to call a professional:

1. Reduced Water Flow

Is the flow of water slower than usual?  You may have a build-up of scale or sediment in the water heater or connecting plumbing.  Scale is particularly a problem in hard water areas and if left can build up and only make the problem worse.  The solution could be a water heater flush and/or de-scale from a heating professional.

2. Water is Discolored or Smells

Discoloration in your water including rusty and muddy colors can suggest that there is rust or bacteria inside your water heater tank.  This can also suggest that the tank’s anode rod is broken -which usually helps to kill off bacteria and remove any rust from the water.

The most common smell from a faulty water heater is a rotten egg smell.  This is caused by sulfate bacteria that can develop within the tank – creating sulfate gas and that nasty smell.

• If the problem is coming from your hot water only, then it’s likely you have a water heater problem.
• If the problem is coming from your hot and cold water then it’s likely to be a water supply problem.

Smelly and discolored hot water can be resolved with a water heater flush.

3.  Strange Noises Coming From the Water Heater

Your water heater can make all kinds of concerning noises loud gurgles, bangs, cracks, pops, whining sounds.

Most commonly water heater sounds are associated with a build-up of scale which burns off inside the heater.

A sizzling sound can suggest a water flow problem, more than a problem with scale build-up.  Or if you have a gas heater than it can suggest a condensation issue.

4. Leaking Water Heater

Do you have water dripping or a pool of water beneath your water heater?  Don’t wait around – this can indicate a serious issue that should be addressed by a repair technician.  Leaks can often be repaired, but sometimes you may need a new heater.  Riley Plumbing Company offers emergency 24 hour water heater repair services in Berlin, New Britain and the rest of Hartford County CT.

5. Fluctuating Hot Water

Of course, you’re going to notice if you have no hot water at all, but fluctuating temperatures can be a little more subtle.  If you do start to notice this and you think something’s not right then you could either have a build-up of mineral deposits (scale) or a faulty water heater element that needs repair.

If you notice any of these warning signs then you should call a plumber to assess the problem. For water heater repair services in Berlin, New Britain and Hartford County, CT call Riley Plumbing Company: 860-225-1534