A failing water heater isn’t just an inconvenience—it can disrupt your entire day. Did you know that water heaters account for about 18% of a home’s energy use? That means an inefficient or malfunctioning unit could be driving up your utility bills without you even realizing it.
From lukewarm showers to strange noises, ignoring the warning of common water heater issues can lead to costly water heater repairs or even a complete breakdown. So, how do you know when it’s time to call a plumber for a water heater repair? Let’s break it down.
5 Common Water Heater Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore
Here are five common signs indicating water heater repair needs:
1. No Hot Water or Water That’s Too Hot
If your shower suddenly turns ice cold or scalding hot, your thermostat might be the problem. Common water heater issues like a faulty thermostat or a broken heating element can disrupt temperature regulation. A professional plumbing contractor can quickly diagnose the issue and get your water back to the perfect temperature.
2. Strange Noises Coming From the Tank
Hearing popping, rumbling, or banging sounds? Another common water heater issue is strange sounds from the heater. That’s likely due to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water accumulate, making your unit work harder and reducing efficiency. Flushing the tank can help, but if the problem persists, a plumber may need to replace worn-out components.
3. Water Leaks Around the Heater
A small leak might not seem like a big deal, but it can quickly turn into a costly plumbing disaster. Leaks could be due to loose connections, a cracked tank, or faulty pressure relief valves. If you notice pooling water near your heater, don’t wait — call for an affordable plumbing repair before it leads to major water damage.
4. Rusty or Discolored Water
Is your hot water coming out brown or with a metallic smell? That’s a red flag for corrosion inside the tank. This usually means the anode rod is failing, allowing rust to form inside the unit. Replacing the anode rod can extend the life of your water heater, but if the tank itself is rusting, it may be time for a replacement.
5. Pilot Light or Burner Issues
Gas water heaters rely on a pilot light or burner to heat water. If your pilot light keeps going out or your burner isn’t igniting properly, it could be due to a faulty thermocouple, gas valve issues, or clogged burner ports. This is not a DIY fix. Only a trained plumber should handle gas-related problems for safety reasons.
How J&B Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Service Can Fix Your Water Heater
When your water heater isn’t working right, you need fast, reliable service to get things back to normal. At J&B Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Service, our skilled plumbing contractors can handle any water heater repair; from minor fixes to complete system replacements. We offer our services in Lindenhurst, NY, and the surrounding areas of Long Island. We offer:
- 24/7 plumberavailability for emergency plumbing services
- Affordable plumbing repairoptions to fit your budget
- Expert diagnostics to pinpoint issues quickly
- Eco-friendly plumbing solutionsto improve efficiency and save on energy costs
Contact us today and book your appointment!