Common Water Heater Repairs For South Florida Homeowners
It’s easy to take your water heater for granted. A consistent supply of clean, hot water for washing and cleaning can become a convenient familiarity until your water heater fails. Although water heater malfunctions are common, the good news is that many issues are repairable. In this article, we look at common water heater repair issues to restore hot water to your home pronto.
Common Water Heater Repair Issues
From faulty thermostats to strange noises, this comprehensive list of repair issues will help you to diagnose a fault on your water heater.
Faulty Thermostat
Your thermostat regulates your water’s temperature, which can result in irregular water temperature when they fail. Your water could suddenly turn too hot or simply remain at a lukewarm temperature. The issue is usually an electrical fault, which requires a replacement thermostat. The new unit will need to be correctly wired, all while the power to the water heater is turned off.
Failing Heating Element
If your hot water is gone, it’s likely that it could be a failed heating element. Water heaters usually have one or two elements, which means that either one or both could have failed. Heating elements are constantly exposed to water and can become covered in scale and water sediment. As the degree of this coating increases, the elements have to work harder to heat the water to the required temperature, eventually causing them to burn out.
A malfunctioning heating element can simply be replaced by a trusted plumber, but be sure to speak to them about how to solve the underlying cause. They will be able to advise you on how to improve the quality of your water, as well as scheduling in an annual water heater flushing, both of which will help.
Water Heater Leaks
Leaking tanks are often a sign that your water heater is nearing the end of its life. Over time, the inner lining of your heater can corrode and thin, causing it to crack. Once a tank begins to corrode, it’s a matter of time until a leak develops, and an unchecked water heater leak can quickly develop into a full-blown plumbing emergency. Your plumber will most likely recommend a replacement unit, as these leaks can’t be repaired.
Strange Noises
It’s not uncommon to hear a popping or rumbling noise from your water heater. This usually happens when your water heater is engaged and is often caused by South Florida’s hard water. These noises are caused by accumulating sediment at the bottom of your tank. As your element heats up, water can get trapped underneath this layer, causing steam bubbles. It’s these rapidly forming steam bubbles that cause a popping noise. The best solution for these strange noises is for a plumber to conduct a tank flush to remove any sediment that is present. It’s paramount that these noises aren’t ignored, as this can eventually lead to water heater failure.
Discolored Water
Does your shower or bath water appear rusty or discolored? This could signal internal tank corrosion or even a bacterial buildup. Before calling a plumber, it’s best to first run the cold water and see if the water’s clear; if it’s also rusty, it’s not your water heater. If it’s isolated to your water heater, your plumber may consider a full tank flush. This should help clear the water; however, if it’s still a rusty color, then you may need to replace your water heater.
Faulty Gas Control Valve
For those with gas water heaters, the gas control unit manages the flow of gas to the burner; if this is faulty, you may experience fluctuating temperatures, no hot water at all, or even pilot light issues. The gas flow always needs to be regulated, as otherwise you will start experiencing the above-mentioned symptoms. It’s best to call in a water heater repair service to replace the valve.
Preventative Maintenance Is The Cure
As you can see, many possible water heater malfunctions can occur. By investing in a comprehensive preventative maintenance protocol, you will be able to dramatically reduce the risk of malfunctions. Be sure to implement these proactive steps to care for your water heater.
Invest In An Annual Tank Flushing
South Florida is known for having hard water problems due to a high amount of limestone in the surrounding geology. Hard water increases the buildup of sediment in your tank, which increases the risk of internal tank corrosion. Investing in an annual tank flushing will remove all sediment buildup, which reduces the risk of corrosion.
Inspect Your Anode Rod
Your anode rod is a piece of metal inside the tank that attracts corrosive substances. It’s designed to help prevent your tank from rusting. Anode rods are designed to degrade over time and will lose their efficiency. It’s good practice to get these inspected annually, as they may need to be replaced.
Install A Water Softener
If you’re encountering hard water, it may be worth installing a whole-house water softener. These will reduce your scale buildup considerably and help to extend the life of your water heater.
Prioritize A Regular Plumbing Inspection
Covering your entire plumbing system is a good practice and will include a water heater check. This is a sure way to minimize any risks associated with an aging or compromised plumbing system and will ensure that you’re not suddenly having to pay a large amount for an unforeseen plumbing repair.
South Florida Water Heater Repairs You Can Count On
At Magical Plumbing, we offer comprehensive water heater repair services. Whether you have a water heater emergency or you want to invest in an ongoing preventative maintenance plan, we’ll offer the service you require. Our experienced plumbers are licensed and insured, and all our work is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
No hot water? That’s not cool. Let us help! Call Magical Plumbing, at 888-810-PIPE to ensure your water heater repairs are covered today.
