Are you experiencing issues with your hot water supply or noticing unusual noises coming from your water heater? These could be warning signs that your water heater unit needs repair or replacement. When you are aware of these signs, you can take action to ensure you always have a reliable hot water supply.
Here are six common telltale signs that indicate your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced:
- Lack of hot water
Do you know that inconsistent water temperature is one of the most obvious signs that your water heater has issues? Getting cold water, or the water taking a long time to heat up, are the most common signs of a broken water heater. If you suspect your hot water heater is not working properly, it’s best to call a professional plumber for an inspection. Our team at STL Plumbing Experts will diagnose the cause of cold or lukewarm water, and repair it as necessary.
- Leaks
Leaks around the water heater base or pipes can be signs of a serious problem that needs immediate attention. If you notice a water leak, immediately turn off the water supply to the water heater and call a plumber right away. Ignoring a minor or major leak can cause significant water damage and may even lead to a complete failure of the water heater. STL Plumbing Experts will locate the source of the leak and repair or replace the damaged component.
- Strange loud sounds
If you hear whining, popping, or cracking sounds from your water heater, this indicates sediment buildup or internal problems that need to be addressed. A buildup of mineral sediment in the bottom of the tank typically causes these loud noises. Over time, this sediment can harden and obstruct the heating elements, reducing the water heater’s efficiency and leading to damage. We will diagnose the cause of the noise and take action, such as flushing the tank or replacing the heating element to fix the problem.
- Age
Standard water heaters typically last around 8-12 years, and some tankless water heaters last up to 20 years. If your water heater unit is approaching this age or has exceeded it, you may need to replace it soon. A water heater that has exceeded its lifespan can be repaired, but it’s cost-effective to install a new one in the long run. While regular maintenance and inspection can extend water heater life, note that as age increases, its failure risk increases as well. We will assess the age and may recommend water heater replacement if it is at the end of its service life.
- Rust-colored water
If you notice rust-colored or brown water coming out of your hot water taps, your water heater’s tank is rusting. Rusty water is caused by the rust in the heater’s hot water metal tank. You should note that over time, your steel hot water tank can begin to rust. This can lead to minor leaks and a complete failure of the water heater. STL Plumbing Experts will examine the water heater for rust and may recommend replacing the tank if the damage is severe.
- Buildup of sediment
A buildup indicates that the tank interior has been damaged, and the heater will require a repair or replacement. This accumulation of sediment is often caused by the water quality used to fill the tank. If the actual water supply contains a high amount of mineral deposits, it can gradually build up at the bottom of the tank. A buildup can cause reduced efficiency, leaks, and even cause the tank to fail. STL Plumbing Experts plumber will remove the buildup and may recommend a water softener or other treatment to prevent a recurrence.
Contact STL Plumbing Experts for Your Faulty Water Heater
Having a faulty water heater can be a major inconvenience. If your water heater gives any warning signs, it is important to address it early to avoid further damage. Call STL plumbing experts if you’re experiencing leaks, strange noises, or rusty and cloudy water.
We offer professional maintenance and excellent emergency plumbing services. We use only high-quality parts and materials to ensure long-lasting water heater repairs. At STL plumbing experts, we will have your hot water running smoothly and safely in no time.
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