Stay Warm: Common Water Heater Problems

Common household applications for hot water include cooking, sanitation, bathing, and indoor climate control. In business settings, hot water and steam provide various applications across various processes. However, like any mechanical system, they can experience common issues that may disrupt daily routines. Below, we'll outline some of the most frequently encountered water heater problems and provide a guide on addressing them.

Fluctuating Water Temperature

If you observe significant changes in your water temperature, it may indicate an issue with the heater. Fluctuations can occur over time, even if you haven't manually adjusted the water temperature. Usually, mineral deposits accumulating around the water heater's heating elements cause these variations in temperature. If you notice such irregularities in your water temperature, we highly recommend seeking assistance from a licensed professional plumbing contractor.

Decreased Hot Water Pressure

The accumulation of hard water mineral deposits often decreases water pressure within your water heater, affecting its performance and lifespan. Additionally, mineral buildup around the heating components is a common cause of reduced hot water pressure. As water heaters age, it's normal for water pressure to diminish gradually. Therefore, seek assistance from a technician specializing in water heater repair and installation to address this problem and restore optimal water pressure in your home.

Water Heater Leakage

Dealing with a malfunctioning water heater unit can be a hassle and disruption. Nevertheless, act quickly to resolve the issue, as it could range from minor problems like a faulty drain valve to more severe issues such as a leaking storage tank. However, you can trust that our skilled plumbers at BIG B's Plumbing are well-equipped to handle any situation. We're here to provide detailed information about all available options, ensuring you make the best decision for your needs. Whether it's a simple repair or a more complex issue, we're committed to providing the solutions you need to keep your water heater running smoothly.

Cloudy Water Issue

Neglecting maintenance can often cause mineral residues to accumulate in the water heater tank, resulting in water discoloration. But don't worry! There's an easy fix: flushing the water heater. This simple step clears out the buildup, restoring your water's clarity and extending the lifespan of your heater. For ongoing maintenance, consider scheduling annual servicing. Doing this confirms optimal performance and can catch any potential issues before they become significant problems. However, if you're still seeing discolored water after flushing, it could be a sign of interior corrosion within the storage tank. In this case, replacing the entire unit is best to prevent further damage and maintain a reliable hot water supply.

Failure of Water Heating

Your water heater might cease functioning for various reasons. These include a lack of gas, an extinguished pilot light, issues like a malfunctioning or tripped breaker, or a defective heating element. These common culprits can disrupt your daily routine and affect the performance of your water heater.

Quick Depletion of Hot Water

If your water heater's pilot light keeps going out, it's likely due to a worn-out thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety mechanism in your water heater responsible for precisely measuring and monitoring temperature. When the thermocouple becomes worn out, it may fail to properly detect the pilot light's presence, turning off the gas supply as a safety measure and leading to a situation where the pilot light won't stay lit, preventing the water heater from functioning correctly. If you encounter this issue, you must replace the thermocouple promptly to ensure your water heater operates safely and efficiently.