Regular water heater maintenance can reduce the risk of or avoid costly repairs. But unfortunately, a water heater is prone to developing problems over time. You can minimize the damage by calling a contractor as soon as it’s not working properly. To help you avoid expensive repairs or replacements, here are signs you should call for water heater repair in Greenville, SC.
The Water Is Sometimes Hot, Sometimes Not
The water temperature should be constant. If it fluctuates and you sometimes get hot water and other times it’s lukewarm or cold, your water heater may need a repair. The reasons can include an accumulation of mineral deposits, the heating element has failed, or the water heater is near or has reached the end of its life.
Hot Water Runs Out More Quickly
Water should stay hot for as long as you’re running the tap. A water heater has two heating elements to keep many gallons of water hot. If you’re running out of hot water, one of these heating elements may not be working.
Discolored, Rusty, or Dirty Water
Your water supply should be clear. High pressure can make it hazy. But if the water flowing from the taps is dark, brownish, or rusty, sediment may be present. A professional can drain the tank to clear it of sediment. If that doesn’t clear things up, your water heater may be corroding on the inside and should be replaced.
The Water Tastes/Smells Bad
Corrosion in a water heater tank can cause tap water to smell and taste metallic. It’s a common problem with older units, but sediment and some chemicals can increase the rate of wear and tear on the water heater. Therefore, it may need more repairs and to be replaced prematurely.
Hot Water Pressure Is Weak
If mineral deposits build up enough, they can block connections and pipes. Then water pressure can be affected. However, a kinked line or poorly designed system can also cause low water pressure.
The Tank Is Noisy
It’s normal for your water heater to rumble a little bit. But if the noise gets increasingly louder and progresses to loud popping, banging, or cracking sounds, it’s time to call a repair technician. Excessive noise often means mineral deposits are building up on the heating elements or in the tank. A broken dip tube or loose part can also cause noise. If left unchecked, vibrations can weaken the system until it leaks or fails.
Your Water Heater Is Leaking
A water heater can leak for many reasons. A leak can be a sign of tank corrosion and accelerate corrosion inside and outside the unit. If the leak is big enough, it can cause puddles of water to form around the appliance. If water collects around the unit and disappears, condensation may be the reason. Call a technician to determine the cause of leakage or condensation; otherwise, costly water damage may occur.
Call Waldrop for Water Heater Repair in Greenville, SC
Water heater repairs can be quite expensive, especially for an older model. However, maintenance costs much less. At Waldrop Plumbing – Heating – Air, we provide family service plans that make annual maintenance more affordable. Our technicians are trained to provide water heater inspections, tank flushes, and repair services. Whether your water heater isn’t producing hot water, leaks, or is noisy, call (864) 536-0887, and we’ll send a qualified plumbing technician to your home.
