7 Signs Water Heaters Need Help; How to Fix!

Maintaining a steady flow of hot water is essential for a comfortable home. Unfortunately, water heaters, like any appliance, can malfunction. This comprehensive guide explores common water heater defects, their probable causes, DIY solutions you can attempt (with safety precautions in mind), and preventive maintenance tips to keep your water heater functioning optimally.

1. Leaking Water Heaters: A Call to Action

A leak signifies a potential crisis that demands swift action to prevent water damage and ensure safety:

 

• Turn Off Power/Gas Supply: Safety first! Locate the circuit breaker for electric heaters and switch it off. For gas models, find the gas shut-off valve and turn it to “off.”

• Shut Off Water Supply: Locate the cold water supply valve feeding the heater and turn it clockwise to close it. If you can’t find it or it’s broken, turn off the main water supply to your house.

• Drain the Water Heater (if necessary): For significant leaks, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom and drain the water to a safe location, remembering the water will be hot.

• Identify the Leak Source: Common culprits include loose connections, a faulty pressure relief valve (T&P valve), a leaking tank, or a drain valve issue. Examine these areas thoroughly.

• Temporary Fixes: If the leak is from a loose fitting, carefully tighten it with a wrench (beware of overtightening). However, for more complex issues, proceed to the next step.

• Professional Help: Unless you’re a seasoned plumber, it’s crucial to call a licensed professional to inspect and repair the unit. They can diagnose the cause and recommend repairs or replacement for a long-term solution.

• Safety Tips: Never ignore leaks. Water damage can be extensive and costly. If the leak is near electrical components, ensure electrical safety by turning off the power before proceeding. If you smell gas, evacuate the area immediately and call your gas company from a safe distance. Do not use phones or switches near the leak site.

• Preventive Maintenance: Regular flushing and inspections can help prevent leaks. Refer to the “Preventive Maintenance” section at the end of this guide for details.

2. Not Enough Hot Waters: Let’s Turn Up the Heat

Several reasons can explain the lack of scorching showers:

Check the Thermostat Setting

Most households prefer a setting between 120°F (49°C) and 140°F (60°C). Adjust the thermostat if needed and wait a couple of hours before checking the water temperature again.

Inspect for Sediment Build-up

Over time, sediment can accumulate in the tank, reducing water heating efficiency. This is especially common in hard water areas. DIY Solution: Drain and flush the tank by connecting a garden hose to the drain valve and letting the water run until clear. For significant build-up, consider professional servicing.

Inspect the Dip Tube

The dip tube directs cold water to the bottom of the tank for heating. If it’s broken or dislodged, cold water might mix with hot water at the top, lowering the overall temperature. DIY Solution: Inspect the dip tube for damage. If necessary, consult a professional for replacement.

Evaluate the Heating Elements (Electric Heaters)

Electric heaters have heating elements that can burn out or malfunction. DIY Solution: Test the elements with a multimeter (use caution with electrical work) to check for continuity. If faulty, consult a qualified electrician for replacement.

Check the Gas Supply (Gas Heaters)

Ensure a consistent gas supply for gas water heaters. Issues with the gas supply can significantly affect the unit’s ability to heat water adequately. Solution: Verify that the gas valve is fully open and there are no interruptions in your gas supply. Contact your gas company if you suspect a problem.

Examine the Exhaust Flue (Gas Heaters)

Blockages in the exhaust flue can affect gas water heater efficiency. Solution: Clear any blockages with caution, preferably with a professional’s help due to carbon monoxide risk. Never attempt to operate a gas heater with a blocked flue.

Consider the Water Heater’s Age and Capacity

Older water heaters (over 10 years) may have decreased efficiency. Consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model. If your usage has increased due to more occupants in the house, your current heater might not be sufficient. Upgrade to a larger unit or a tankless water heater, which heats water on-demand and can potentially reduce energy costs. However, tankless models may require specific installation considerations and might not be suitable for all homes. Consult a plumber to determine if a tankless water heater is a viable option for your needs.

3. Stopped Working: When Hot Waters Go Cold

If your water heater has gone completely silent, here are some steps to take:

 

• Check Power and Gas Supply: Ensure connections are secure and supply lines are open. For electric models, check the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.

• Safety First: If you smell gas, evacuate immediately without using switches or phones. Open doors and windows for ventilation.

• Reset and Troubleshoot: For electric heaters, try resetting the breaker. For gas models, attempt to relight the pilot light according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Refer to your water heater’s manual for specific steps.

• Professional Inspection: If you’re unsure about the cause or these steps don’t work, get a professional to check for advanced issues like a malfunctioning gas burner, faulty control valves, or internal tank problems.

• Preventive Maintenance: Regular inspections and adherence to maintenance schedules can prevent most water heater issues. Refer to the “Preventive Maintenance” section at the end of this guide for details.

 

 

4. Intermittent Operation (Turns On and Off): Short Cycling Blues

When your water heater keeps cycling on and off frequently (short cycling), it can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Here’s how to address it:

 

• Thermostat and Element Check: Confirm the thermostat setting is appropriate for your needs. Test the heating elements (electric) with a multimeter for functionality.

• Check Venting and Gas Pressure (Gas Heaters): Ensure proper venting to avoid overheating and triggering safety shutdowns. For gas models, verify consistent gas pressure.

• Professional Help: If the problem persists after checking these factors, consult a qualified technician to diagnose and address the underlying cause.

• Preventive Maintenance: Regularly flushing the tank and ensuring proper venting can help prevent short cycling. Refer to the “Preventive Maintenance” section at the end of this guide for details.

5. Stink/Odor/Smell: When Your Water Heater Gets Funky

Unpleasant smells emanating from your water heater can be off-putting. Here’s how to eliminate them effectively:

 

• Flush the Tank: If you suspect a bacterial odor, flush the tank with a solution of water and white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Refer to your water heater manual for specific instructions.

• Replace the Anode Rod: A failing anode rod can cause a sulfur smell. Replace the anode rod according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (refer to “Preventive Maintenance” for details).

• Environmental Check: Musty smells might indicate moisture around the heater. Clean surrounding areas and improve ventilation.

• Important Safety Note: If you smell gas, evacuate the area immediately and call your gas company from a safe distance. Do not attempt to diagnose or fix a gas leak yourself.

6. Low Pressure: When the Hot Water Dribbles

Several factors can contribute to low hot water pressure:

 

• Clear Blockages: Clean aerators on faucets and showerheads to remove any mineral buildup restricting flow. Inspect hot water lines for blockages.

• Water Heater Maintenance: Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup that can impede water flow. Check the dip tube for damage (refer to “Not Enough Hot Water” for details).

• Check for Leaks: Repair any leaks in the water heater or pipes. For internal blockages or pipe issues, consider consulting a professional plumber.

• Preventive Maintenance: Regular flushing and inspections can help prevent low hot water pressure. Refer to the “Preventive Maintenance” section at the end of this guide for details.

7. Noise: When Water Heaters Become a Chatterbox

Water heaters’ noises can be disruptive. Here’s how to identify and address the cause:

 

• Identify and Address Causes: Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup that can cause rumbling noises. Check for water hammer, a pressure surge that creates knocking sounds. Consult a professional to address water hammer issues.

• Element and Valve Checks: Clean or replace noisy heating elements (electric heaters). Inspect and potentially replace the pressure relief valve if it’s making hissing or popping sounds.

• Consult a Professional: For persistent noise, especially in older units, professional advice may be necessary. They can diagnose the problem and recommend repairs or replacement.

• Preventive Maintenance: Regular flushing and using water softeners in hard water areas can prevent noise caused by sediment buildup. Refer to the “Preventive Maintenance” section at the end of this guide for details.

Preventive Maintenance: Keeping Your Water Heater Flowing Smoothly

By incorporating these simple yet effective maintenance practices into your routine, you can significantly extend your water heater’s lifespan and efficiency:

Yearly Flushing

Yearly flushing removes sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to flush your water heater:

 

• Turn Off the Power or Gas Supply: Follow the same steps mentioned earlier for turning off the power/gas and water supply.

• Attach a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve: Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and connect a garden hose to it.

• Open a Hot Water Tap: This will help create a flow to expel the water.

• Open the Drain Valve: Allow the water to drain into a suitable container until it runs clear. This might take some time.

• Close the Drain Valve and Detach the Hose: Once the water runs clear, signifying minimal sediment, close the drain valve and detach the hose securely.

• Turn the Water Supply Back On: Slowly open the cold water supply valve to refill the tank. Open a hot water tap to allow air to escape until hot water flows steadily.

• Turn on the Power or Gas Supply: Once the tank is refilled and air is purged, restore power or gas supply to your water heater.

Anode Rod Maintenance

Anode rods are sacrificial metal rods designed to attract corrosion, protecting the tank from rust. They deteriorate over time and require replacement:

 

• Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the shut-off valve for the cold water supply feeding the heater and turn it clockwise to close it.

• Drain a Small Amount of Water: Attach a hose to the drain valve and drain a few gallons of water to create space for the replacement rod.

• Remove the Old Anode Rod: Using an appropriate wrench, unscrew the anode rod from the tank.

• Inspect the Anode Rod: If the rod is significantly corroded or worn down, it’s time for a replacement.

• Install the New Anode Rod: Wrap the threads of the new rod with Teflon tape and screw it back into the tank, ensuring a snug fit but avoiding overtightening.

• Turn on the Water Supply and Refill the Tank: Slowly open the cold water supply valve and allow the tank to refill. Open a hot water tap to purge air until hot water flows steadily.

Safety Valve Test

The temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is a safety feature that releases excess pressure to prevent tank ruptures. Test it annually:

 

• Locate the T&P valve, typically a lever or pipe near the top of the heater.

• Place a bucket under the discharge pipe to collect any water released.

• Lift the lever on the T&P valve briefly (a few seconds) to allow a small amount of water to discharge. If water continuously flows, the valve needs replacement by a qualified plumber.

Temperature Settings

Maintain the temperature between 120°F (49°C) and 140°F (60°C) to prevent scalding and maximize efficiency. You can adjust the thermostat on the unit following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Insulation

Insulating the water heater tank and pipes can minimize heat loss and improve efficiency. You can purchase pre-cut insulation wraps specifically designed for water heaters.

Conclusion: A Water Heater in Harmony

By understanding the common water heaters’ defects, their potential causes, and the importance of preventive maintenance, you can ensure a steady flow of hot water for your household. Remember, early detection and addressing minor issues can prevent more significant problems and extend the lifespan of your water heater. If a repair seems complex or you’re unsure about the cause of a malfunction, don’t hesitate to call a qualified plumber. Their expertise can save you time, money, and potential water damage in the long run.