Homeowners can handle certain repairs around the house, but water heater repair requires Denver Water Heater Repair. A professional can diagnose problems and help you determine if your water heater needs replacing.
A puddle of water around your tank indicates it’s time for a replacement. Other warning signs include a lack of hot water and smelly or discolored water.
Many people assume that if their water heater tank is discolored with rust, they’ll need to call in the pros to replace the entire device. In reality, a few simple fixes can solve the issue and extend the lifespan of your hot water heater.
Rusty water can come from a number of different sources, but the most common cause is a faulty anode rod. This small metal rod sits inside your water heater tank and attracts elements in the water that would otherwise corrode the tank itself. Over time, the rod itself will rust through, but it “sacrifices” itself so that your water heater doesn’t. Typically, anode rods will need to be replaced every few years during a maintenance visit, and replacing the rod is easy for a plumbing professional.
A damaged temperature-pressure release valve may also contribute to rusty water. If the valve fails to shut off properly, it can let air into your tank and accelerate corrosion. If you find that your water heater is leaking, it’s a good idea to get it checked out as soon as possible because it could lead to serious leaks and damage.
If rusty water is coming from both your hot and cold taps, it’s likely that the problem is a bacteria buildup somewhere in the water supply system. This could include the sewage lines, the water main, or the plumbing in your home. Bacterial growth can give water a rusty or brown appearance, and shocking the water with chlorine followed by flushing should clear up the problem.
However, if the rusty water is only coming from your hot taps, it’s probably the result of an anode rod that has corroded. If you have a look inside your water heater and find that the rod has rusted away completely, it will need to be replaced immediately. Our plumbing professionals can do this during a fast and affordable maintenance visit.
Leaks are a common problem with water heaters. They can be minor, such as a puddle around the tank, or major, where the leak is seeping out of the tank itself. Fortunately, homeowners can often take action to stop the leaks in their tracks. Often, this can help prevent the need for professional repair services and save homeowners from expensive water damage.
First, homeowners can check that all of the connections and valves are tight. Often, a simple tightening with a wrench can fix these leaks. This can include the cold water inlet and hot water outlet pipes on top of the heater, as well as the temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P).
The drain valve at the bottom of the water heater is also a common cause of water leaks. This spigot can loosen and fail to close completely after draining or flushing the water heater. In this case, it can be replaced with a new valve.
If the leak is at the bottom of the tank, it’s likely due to a cracked or corroded tank. This can also occur due to the anode rod, a sacrificial component that attracts and removes corrosive materials from the tank itself. When this isn’t in place, those corrosive materials can eat through the tank and create cracks.
Finally, the T&P valve can also be a source of water leaks from the tank. This valve is responsible for releasing excess heat or pressure from the tank. This can also become loose over time, leading to leaks. This is an important valve to replace if it becomes damaged.
When a water heater stops working well, the problem often goes beyond a simple fix. A water heater is an appliance that uses a significant portion of your home’s energy, and when it has to work harder than normal to produce the same results, it will cost more money in utility bills.
If you find that you’re constantly calling for repairs on your water heater, or if the repair costs exceed 50% of the cost of a new one, it may be time to consider replacement. A replacement could also save you money in the long run because a newer model is more efficient and will likely result in lower energy bills.
Other signs that it’s time to replace your water heater include an insufficient supply of hot water and a fluctuating temperature in the water. Both of these problems can be caused by a malfunctioning dip tube, a faulty heating element or a clogged heat exchanger. A plumber should be able to inspect and replace these parts with relative ease, but in the case of a leaking tank or rusting interior, the replacement of the entire unit may be necessary.
A failing water heater is a safety risk, especially for children and elderly people in your home. Not only can a faulty water heater lead to scalding burns, but if it leaks or produces sediment, you could be dealing with health risks. Malfunctioning water heaters can also be a breeding ground for bacteria that can make you and your family sick.
If you notice that your water heater is making loud or obnoxious noises, it’s definitely time for a replacement. Banging, clanging, and rumbling sounds can indicate the build-up of sediment in the tank. If left unchecked, this can cause the tank to crack and leak and will almost always require a complete replacement of the tank. It’s important to get this done as soon as possible to prevent serious damage to your property and to minimize the risk of a flooded home. A flooded water heater can lead to severe and expensive damage, as well as a serious health hazard for you and your family.
Imagine being at home relaxing when suddenly the ceiling collapses and water gushes into your living space. This disaster, one of the top five causes of residential water damage, occurs when a water heater bursts. Water can damage furniture, carpets, and walls and cause severe mold and mildew problems in your home. It can also lead to costly structural repairs and replacements.
The best way to avoid a burst water heater is to have regular professional inspections. This includes flushing and draining the tank as well as testing the temperature and pressure relief valve once or twice a year. This will prevent sediment buildup, which can cause leaks and the potential of a tank bursting.
If you notice a strange smell or discoloration, turn off the water and power to your tank. Check for puddles around the unit and for water leaking from the temperature pressure relief valve or the drain valve at the bottom of the tank. These problems are often caused by loose plumbing connections, which can be tightened using a wrench. If the smell or discoloration persists, it may be due to a reaction between the anode rod and sulfur in your water. You can try replacing the anode rod to see if this resolves the problem.
Water heater tanks can also develop cracks in the glass due to age and mineral buildup. This can also be prevented by replacing the anode rod, which helps to remove corrosive elements in the tank that would otherwise eat away at the tank until it bursts.
If you have a broken water heater, it is important to shut off the power and water supply to your tank immediately. Then, use a wet/dry vacuum or sop up the standing water to avoid mold and mildew formation and limit damage. If the standing water is extensive, you should hire a professional to suck up the water and dry out the affected areas. This will save you money on restoration costs and prevent future damage. By following these simple tips, you can help your water heater last longer and reduce the need for repairs.
