How to Tell When You Need Water Heater Repair | Boerne, TX
It’s no secret that a water heater is one of the essential appliances in your home. However, most people don’t realize how much they rely on it until it stops working. A malfunctioning water heater can lead to many problems, from a lack of hot water to severe water damage. If you’re experiencing issues with your unit, don’t wait to call a professional water heater repair in Boerne, TX, expert to help you fix the issue.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair
It’s vital to know the signs your water heater needs repair so you can call a professional before the problem worsens. Here are the signs you need water heater repair:
#1. Your water heater is leaking
Water heaters occasionally show condensation outside the unit because of the difference in water’s temperature and the air around it–this is normal. However, a continuous drip or pool of water around the unit could be a sign of a bigger problem.
A leaking water heater can damage your flooring and any items near the water heater. So, if you notice a leak, call a water heater repair technician to check the entire unit and make the necessary repairs.
#2. Your water has a bad odor
If you’ve noticed strange smells coming from your water heater, chances are there’s bacteria growth inside your tank.
The anode rod is responsible for keeping your water clean and free from bacteria. But as time passes, the anode rod itself becomes corroded. When this happens, the bacteria will no longer be kept at bay, and your water will start to smell bad.
If you’ve noticed a foul odor from your water, have the anode rod replaced by a water heater repair pro.
#3. High-energy bills
Have you noticed that your energy bills have increased even though you haven’t changed your habits? It’s likely your water heater is to blame.
As water heaters age, they become less energy-efficient. This means they use more power to heat the same amount of water. Therefore, if your water heater is more than ten years old, replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model will help lower your energy bills.
Another possible cause of increased energy bills is a faulty heating element. If one of the two heating elements in your water heater is not working, it will take longer to heat the water, and this will cause your energy bills to skyrocket.
#4. Your water temperature is inconsistent
This problem can be caused by a broken dip tube or a faulty thermostat. The dip tube is responsible for delivering cold water to the bottom of the tank to be heated.
A broken dip tube will cause the cold and hot water to mix, meaning you’ll get only lukewarm water coming out of your faucets. Replacing the dip tube can fix this problem.
On the other hand, a faulty thermostat will cause your water heater to overheat the water. This can be very dangerous as it puts you at risk of scalding. Unfortunately, replacing a thermostat is not a DIY job and will require the help of a professional water heater repair technician.
#5. Funny noises coming from the tank
When you start hearing popping, banging, or hissing noises coming from the tank is often a sign that there is too much sediment in your water heater tank. The buildup is often caused by the minerals in your water, which settle at the bottom of the tank and harden. The buildup is responsible for the noises, makes your water heater less energy-efficient, and reduces its lifespan.
The best way to get rid of the sediment is to have the tank flushed by a water heater repair expert. They have the proper equipment and knowledge to do it without damaging your water heater.
#6. There’s rust in your water
Rusty water coming from your taps is a sign that your unit is rusting on the inside. When water heaters rust, it weakens the metal and causes the unit to break down. As a result, you could start seeing leaks or pools of water around the unit.
If you notice rust in your water, shut off the power to your water heater and call a water heater repair technician immediately. They’ll be able to inspect the unit and determine the best course of action.
#7. You run out of hot water
The water heater is designed to provide hot water for a certain amount of time. It has two elements inside that heat up the water. When one of these elements fails, it will take longer for the water to heat up. As a result, you’ll run out of hot water quickly.
This problem can be fixed by replacing the faulty element. But if both elements are damaged, it’s time to replace the water heater.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
Even with regular maintenance and repair, there will come a time when you have to replace your unit. Here are some signs that it’s time for a water heater replacement:
- The unit is more than ten years old
- The unit constantly breaks down
- You’re using a lot of money on repeated repairs that don’t seem to fix the problem
- Damaged heating elements
A water heater repair technician in Boerne, TX, can help assess the situation and give you the best advice on what to do.
Your Friendly Neighborhood Water Heater Experts
Are you having problems with your water heater? Don’t hesitate to call the experts at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of San Antonio. We’re your trusted provider of water heater repair in Boerne, TX, and the surrounding. Over the years, we’ve helped countless homeowners with their water heater problems. We have the knowledge and experience to get the job done right the first time. In addition, we also offer water heater replacement and installation services. So, if you need a new unit, we can help you choose the best one for your home.
Call us today at 210-876-1629 to schedule a service. You can also visit our website to learn more about our water heater services.