A water heater often gives clear signs it needs professional servicing. Paying attention to these clues ensures you will hire a plumber when needed. Discover how to determine if and when your water heater needs professional maintenance or repairs.
Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can build up inside your water heater. This sediment consists of minerals, rust, sand and other debris. Your water heater will begin making sounds like popping or rumbling, indicating that you need to flush out the sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Flushing out the tank is an important part of professional water heater maintenance.
Rusty or Discolored Water
Water that looks rusty or discolored indicates that your water heater needs professional repairs. The culprit could be corrosion inside the tank. It could also result from a failing anode rod. A professional plumber can replace the anode rod and carry out other repairs to prevent rusting and corrosion.
No Hot Water
When your water heater fails to heat water, it needs professional repairs. The problem could lie with a broken dip tube or failing heating elements. The issue could also indicate that your water heater needs a new thermostat or that there’s a problem with the wiring.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure from the water heater often results from sediment buildup or a clog in one of the pipes or valves. Keeping these parts clean calls for you to professionally maintain this appliance at least once a year.
Longer Heating Times
Likewise, if your water heater takes longer to heat water, it may need a tune-up. Many times, this problem comes from a gas burner that needs to be cleaned or realigned. The thermostat may also need resetting or recalibrating.
Water Around the Base
A cracked or damaged valve often causes water or moisture to puddle around the base of your tank. A leak causes your water heater to use more energy and waste gallons of hot water. If you notice water pooling around the tank base, you need to hire a plumber to repair the water heater immediately.
Foul Smells
Foul smells coming from the water heater indicate that there could be bacterial growth inside the tank. There may also be stagnant water inside the tank, or the water could have high amounts of iron in it. If you notice a rotten egg smell coming from the water, you should have your water heater inspected and repaired.
Age
Most water heaters last about 10 to 12 years. Older units are more prone to breaking down and needing repairs. If you have an older model, you should consider replacing it with a new water heater.
These signs tell you whether or not your water heater in Newnan, GA needs a tune-up or plumbing repairs. Contact E Dennis AC Inc. to schedule water heater services.
