8 Signs You Need Water Heater Repair | Universal City, TX
Of all the appliances in your Universal City, TX home, your water heater is one of the most crucial. Many water heaters are tucked away in basement corners or in closets and thus rarely looked at. Out of sight, out of mind! But if you spot any of the following signs, it is a good idea to make it a point of calling for a water heater repair service.
Sign #1: Water in the drain pan beneath your tank
Leaks in water heaters don’t always occur quickly and are often not obvious. A leak can be so subtle and slow that it is barely noticeable. However, a leak that starts small often grows quickly and can lead to a steady stream or drips that could cause serious damage to your home. When high-pressure water is flowing through your water pipes, you could be dealing with a flood before you know it. You should call a plumber immediately if you begin to see water in your drain pan. There’s a good chance that you’ll need to book a water heater repair and deal with major water damage to your home if this sign is overlooked for a long period.
Sign #2: Reduced hot water production
Is it noticeable that your water heater tank isn’t keeping up with your demands? Is it frequent that water temperature drops about halfway through your morning shower? Although this could be a sign of one or more problems, it is almost always a sign that your water heater is overworking. It is also a sign that there’s a lot of sediment in your tank. It’s a common problem, especially if you have very hard water. You might even see higher energy costs over the last few months, as your water heater has been burning more fuel to heat through the sediment layer that’s insulating your tank. A water heater repair service is recommended if you experience a loss of hot water production, as there could be many causes that only a professional plumber can identify and solve.
Sign #3: Regular pilot light issues
A gas-powered water heater that requires repair will have a pilot light that is constantly out and must be manually lit. Issues with the pilot light can indicate that your heater is nearing its end of life. A dying pilot light, even if it is not defective and the water heater is relatively new, is usually an indication that the water heater is about to need replacement. Although manually relighting the pilot light can help you get hot water back in the short-term, it will not be a permanent solution. You’ll have trouble keeping hot water flowing throughout your home, unless you opt for water heater repair to replace any troublesome components.
Sign #4: Dying heating elements
What about electric water heaters? If you notice a lack of hot water, it could be an indicator that your heating elements have failed. This is usually a sign that your tank is about ready to go out. You can often repair a dying heating element or defective heater element, which will extend the life of your water heater. If your water heater has reached six to eight years old, you might consider replacing it entirely. This is likely to save money.
Sign #5: Poor water pressure
Low water pressure could be caused by a clogged water line or a blocked aerator. Your water tank may also be the cause of low hot water pressure. Mineral deposits can build up in the water tank and block the pipes making it difficult for hot water to flow throughout your Universal City, TX property. This is a serious problem that requires an immediate water heater repair service.
Sign #6: Rusty hot water
It is a problem if your water comes out rusty. Rusty water is not safe to use in your bath, and it is unsafe to drink and cook with. If the water comes out rusty in both hot and cold, it is likely that your pipes have been damaged and need to be repaired.
If the hot water is rusty, but not the cold water, it’s likely that your water heater is the source. You will need to call a plumber who specializes in water heater repair. The sediment buildup in the tank is most likely responsible for the rusty water. The sediment may loosen as the water warms, which can lead to the water becoming discolored.
Rusty water could also be caused by the heater’s anode rod. The rod is made from aluminum and magnesium. If it is damaged, it can make the hot water rusty. A professional water heater repair technician will be able to diagnose the problem and provide solutions. The plumber will first visit your home to examine the water heater and recommend the best way to get hot water back. Whether it’s replacing the anode rod, flushing the tank, or replacing the water heater, a plumber can assist you.
Sign #7: Clouded water
If your hot water appears cloudy when you turn it on, call a plumber who is skilled in water heater repair. Mineral deposits can cause water to become cloudy and change the texture and color of hot water. To prevent further damage to your tank, this is an issue that must be fixed. It is unsafe to use or bathe in water that has excess mineral deposits. Therefore, it is important to get your water heater repaired as soon as possible.
Sign #8: Unpleasant odors
You should immediately call for a plumber to investigate if you notice strange odors when you turn on your hot water. You could have dangerous bacteria growth in your water tank, if it smells sulfurous or rusty. Long-term exposure could lead to illness for you and your family members.
If you spot any of the above signs, your water heater may be to blame. Get in touch with us at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio to resolve any issues ASAP. Call our emergency water heater repair service in Universal City, TX today.
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