A water heater is essential for running a comfortable home, from warm showers to clean dishes. However, age or damage can lead to low pressure, loss of hot water or more serious problems. Fortunately, paying attention to signs of water heater issues allows you to reach out to Delta Mechanical for a replacement before the problem worsens.
1. Leaky Tank
Moisture and puddles are common signs of a leaky tank, which occurs when there is pressure buildup. Potential causes include high water pressure or temperature, a malfunctioning relief valve or a failing unit. When a leak occurs, you may notice moisture on the tank’s exterior and pooling near or around the unit. Ignoring the problem puts your home at risk of a tank burst, so it’s important to contact Delta Mechanical in Phoenix, AZ, as soon as possible.
2. Inadequate Hot Water
While it’s not uncommon to sometimes run out of hot water while showering or doing the dishes, frequently losing hot water is a sign of trouble. There are several causes of inadequate hot water, such as sediment buildup or a malfunctioning heating element. However, most of these signs point to a potential water heater replacement.
3. Inconsistent Water Temperature
Another sign is inconsistent water temperature, especially water that quickly changes from hot to cold. The underlying cause may be a faulty thermostat or a declining heating element. While there is a chance of a repair, prepare to replace your water heater for potential wear and tear or end of lifespan.
4. Water Never Heats
You turn on the hot water and wait for it to heat up, but it remains cold even after several minutes. This is also a sign of a declining water heater, and the cause is most likely a damaged or failed heating element. Repairing the heating element may work for a short while, but replacing the water heater is a more permanent solution.
5. Cloudy Water
You may notice cloudy or foggy water coming out of the faucet, which is unpleasant to look at or even think of using or drinking. The possible causes include sediment buildup in the tank or aerator, hard water, trapped air or methane gas. You may need a water heater replacement, but a professional plumber can let you know for sure.
6. Rusty Water
If you notice discolored water or a metallic odor, you have rusty water. The potential cause ranges from a faulty sacrificial anode rod to a rusted interior tank. Rusty water means your tank is possibly at risk of leaks, so addressing the problem immediately is crucial to preventing water damage to your home.
7. Noticeable Corrosion
In addition to rusty water, you may notice corrosion on the unit itself. Start by inspecting all the exterior components, including the tank and pipes, for rust or corrosion. If you notice any corrosion or rust, your water heater is most likely declining and needs a replacement from Delta Mechanical.
8. Strange Noises
Your water heater should not make noises outside of the usual ticking, creaking and soft crackling, clicking or hissing that occurs when the unit is running. Any other sounds are unusual and a sign of a problem with the unit.
- Knocking
- Banging
- Rumbling
- Gurgling
- Popping
- High-pitched whistling
These signs can indicate different problems. For example, banging or knocking indicates sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank. The sediment hardens and moves around inside the tank, which may mean your water heater is near the end of its lifespan. Luckily, an expert plumber can identify the exact cause of these sounds and replace the unit with a quiet, operational water heater.
9. Frequent Repairs
It’s not uncommon to need a repair once in a while, but frequent repairs mean your water heater is suffering from age or wear and tear. This is especially true if you constantly call about the same issues, which could mean a potential breakdown is on the horizon. Replacing the water heater reduces the cost and inconvenience of scheduling frequent repairs.
10. Pilot Light Problems
If you have a gas water heater, a problem with the pilot light indicates trouble. The pilot light may frequently go out without being turned off manually, or you may have trouble relighting the pilot light. The potential cause ranges from the thermocouple to faulty components, and you need an expert plumber to figure it out. Your water heater cannot operate smoothly without the pilot light, so this is not an issue to ignore or take lightly.
11. Warm Water, Not Hot
Your water heater may produce warm but not hot water, and this isn’t always enough for showers or other tasks. Start by ensuring the thermostat is set between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s set to the proper temperature, the heating element is broken and needs the expertise of a professional plumber.
12. High Energy Bills
The first thing you do when you notice an increase in energy bills is examine your behavior. For instance, you may double-check the hot water usage in your home. If you notice higher energy bills without any behavior change, the cause may be an old, worn or damaged water heater. This usually means your water heater is working harder than necessary to maintain hot water. Fortunately, you can have the water heater replaced with a modern, energy-efficient model.
13. End of Lifespan
With proper care, most tank water heaters last six to 12 years. The average lifespan of a tankless water heater is over 20 years. A water heater may need replacing when it is over 10 years old and especially near the end of its lifespan. You can check the age of your water heater by searching for the serial number on the manufacturer’s website. Keep the age and frequency of problems or repairs in mind when determining if your unit is getting old.
Schedule Your Water Heater Replacement With Delta Mechanical Today
When you need to replace your water heater, Delta Mechanical is ready to tackle the job. We have the experience and skills necessary to replace both tank and tankless water heaters, allowing you to stick with your preferred water heater type. In addition, our plumbers are experts in various areas, including leak detection, drain cleaning and bathroom and kitchen plumbing. We are also available for gas line, sewer line, sump pump and pipe repairs, proving that we can do it all. In addition to our Arizona service area, we offer services to residents of Colorado, California, Florida, Nevada and Texas. We have been in business for over 40 years with an A+ rating with the BBB, and we let our positive reviews on Google and Facebook speak for themselves.
If you need to schedule a water heater replacement, contact us at Delta Mechanical to learn more and request an appointment today.
