Spring is one of the best periods to check out that noisy water heater. During this season, you have enough time to address all potential problems of your heater before peak water demand in the summer. Fixing these issues before the hot months ensures optimal efficiency and helps extend the life span of your unit. Here are some indications your water heater needs repair during spring cleaning.
1. Discolored Water
You may need to check out your heater if your hot water has a rusty or yellow appearance. Discolored water might be a sign of an issue with the anode rod in your water tank. This rod protects the interior tank from corrosion, meaning the tank might start to rust if it fails.
2. Water Leaks
Your water heater needs attention during spring cleaning if you notice pooling under it or water dripping from the tank. Since a leaky water heater can damage your floor and walls, it is recommended that you turn it off immediately and contact a professional plumber for help. Your water heater might leak due to deterioration, sediment buildup, or lack of maintenance.
3. Heating Takes Longer Than Usual
Mineral deposits inside your unit can slow down the water heating process. Other factors that might make heating take longer than usual are a failing heating element and a malfunctioning thermostat. A damaged heating element or malfunctioning thermostat can also make water temperature fluctuate wildly.
4. Unusual or Loud Noises
Water flow restrictions, loose pipes, water hammer, or sediment buildup can make your water heater produce loud or unusual noises while running. Known as “kettling,” this is where a unit produces loud sounds like a boiling teapot. You may hear whistling or popping, which might indicate that the pressure inside the tank is too high.
5. Hot Water With a Bad Odor
A heater will produce smelly hot water when there is a chemical reaction in the tank, leading to the release of hydrogen sulfide gas. If you have been away, the smell may vanish shortly through normal use. However, you may need to call a plumber if it persists. The plumber will start by flushing the tank before sanitizing it. If the smell is due to a deteriorated anode rod, the plumber will replace it with a new one.
6. Hot Water Pressure Is Low
Your water heater needs attention during spring cleaning if hot-water pressure is low but cold-water pressure is fine. Low hot-water pressure is often due to limescale buildup that clogs the pipe distributing hot water. A kinked water supply line, an old unit, a faulty pressure regulator, and a partially closed valve are other causes of low hot-water pressure.
Conclusion
Due to the expertise required, working with a professional plumber to fix the above problems is highly recommended. Depending on the issue, the plumber may flush the tank or replace components if need be. Call our experts at TNT today for professional water heater repair in Savannah, GA.
