When to Call for a Water Heater Repair Service | San Antonio, TX
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Your water heater is not working. Instead of the comforting warm water flowing from the shower, you’re only getting jets of icy cold water. You quickly check the heating device, but outwardly, nothing seems wrong. Your appliance has malfunctioned, and you need a water heater repair immediately. If you live in San Antonio, TX, you need to read this.
Water heating involves the transfer of heat from an energy source to the water. The process heats the water to above its normal temperature, also known as room temperature. Most domestic uses of hot water are bathing, cooking, cleaning, among others.
Some industrial complexes heat water to steam to power machinery, and other uses. Indeed, the first locomotives used steam turbines to drive the motors. Shipping too, experienced the use of steam engines before electricity and fossil fuels took over.
Today, most people use electricity and as a power source in their homes to heat water for domestic purposes. Electricity may be generated from other energy sources such as nuclear power, solar energy, geothermal generators or generators powered by fossil fuels, for example, petroleum and coal. Gas-powered water heaters are also extensively used across the world.
Common Hot Water Appliances
Most homes and institutions today use a wide array of heating appliances. Some of the most common appliances include:
- Storage tank water heater
- Solar-powered water heater
- Tankless water heater
- Electric heat pump water heater
- Condensing water heater
Like all other appliances, water heaters age and are prone to breakage or malfunction. When this happens, you require a pro water heater repair to diagnose your system and initiate repairs as soon as possible. Here are some problems that call a plumber:
No Hot Water
The most common problem with water heaters is not producing hot water. This is usually caused by an electrical malfunction rather than a mechanical breakdown. Sensors within the appliance may not be functioning properly, therefore failing to ignite the gas (if you use a gas water heater) or an electrical device within the appliance may also be faulty. If the circuit breaker is tripped, you need to call a plumber.
Water Leaking
If water appears to be leaking from an appliance such as a gas water heater, it could be caused by a loose drain valve draining water through the overflow pipe due to over-pressurization in the tank. A leak may also be caused by corrosion within the device and may mean replacement of the whole appliance. Either way, a water heater repair is necessary.
Too Little Hot Water
Not having enough hot water may be caused by having a thermostat set at a low temperature or a faulty thermostat. A damaged or broken dip tube that enables incoming cold water to mix with the hot water may be the culprit. You may also have a water tank that is too small for your needs, and an upgrade to a larger appliance is all you need.
Sediment Buildup
When water heats, mineral deposits settle at the bottom of the water tank, and the buildup of sediments overtime affect the appliance. This reduces the efficiency of your appliance, eventually causing damage. If your water supply is hard water, you may experience this problem.
Water Is Too Hot
When spring breaks after the frigid winter, you may forget to set the thermostat to a lower temperature. A faulty thermostat may also be the case. A water heater repair will sort you out promptly.
High Water Pressure
High water pressure may damage your water heater. It may also affect pipes and other related appliances. If you notice water leaking from places where it shouldn’t be leaking from, get a water heater repair as quickly as possible to avoid further damage to the appliance.
Malfunctioning Pilot Light
If you have a pilot light that will not light or will not stay lit, there could be several factors causing the problem. The pilot light tube may be clogged, therefore requiring a replacement. The thermocouple could also be loose or faulty or the gas valve defective, causing the light to keep going out. A water heater repair is recommended.
Strange Noises in the Water Heater
You may hear hissing, knocking or banging noises emanating from your water heater. This is typically caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, dirty parts or clogged parts within the appliance. A water heater repair by the experts at Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio, TX, can resolve this problem swiftly.
Rusty Water Heater
Corrosion of the anode rod or other parts of the appliance may cause your appliance to discharge rusty colored water frequently. The most common cause for this is old age, and a new water heater would be a good idea.
Smelly Water
Smelly water is another common problem. This is most likely due to the buildup of bacteria in the tank. Bacteria are hard to kill off even with relatively hot water and can withstand the temperature of up to 140°F. Thorough cleaning with chlorine bleach will usually sort out the problem.
Old Age
All appliances age, reducing optimum output and efficiency. Water heaters typically have a life span of 8 – 12 years. The only cure for this is getting a new water heater.
Don’t Let Your Broken Shower Put You Down
A hot water shower in the morning should be a rewarding experience for the start of the day, and a contrary experience may dampen the remainder of your day. If your water heater is causing you problems, get a water heater repair immediately. Most appliances require regular maintenance to keep them operating optimally.
Whether you require the installation of a water heater, maintenance, repair or replacement of parts, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain is a leader in water heater repair in San Antonio, TX. Deploying a team of highly trained and licensed personnel, bluefrog + Drain of San Antonio boasts vast experience in the plumbing industry and operates 24/7. Contact the pros today!
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