Unless your water heater is working correctly, malfunctions will always lead to unexpected expenses. For example, with an improperly-working water heater, you'll likely suffer from expensive energy bills and the accumulation of excess moisture that leads to mold and mildew. These problems also lead to health risks and pest infestations.
Therefore, before your water heater suffers any problems, both noticeable and hidden ones, watch out for the following telltale signs you need to repair or replace it.
1. Reduced Amount of Water and Leaks from the Heater Tank
A leak from the heater, especially when it's off, indicates it suffers from problems either inside or from the water source. Leaks can start as tiny drips or signs of pooling under the heater unit. For instance, it can be problems with the pressure valves and sometimes the accumulation of dust and dirt in the heater tank and motor.
The pressure and drain valve mostly lead to problems due to the heater's regular opening and closing when inspecting and cleaning it. Frequent opening and closing loosen valves allowing spaces for water to leak. However, sometimes your heater suffers leaks that don't stem from problems with valves. When that happens, the issues could arise from sediments at the bottom of the heater tank.
When sediments accumulate, especially those caused by mineral deposits, they can form cracks. When the heater tank cracks, such cracks lead to leaks that grow over time. Otherwise, leaks can also stem from a loose water tank. Correcting the problem only requires getting a new drain valve or calling an expert to handle them.
2. Inconsistent Water Temperatures
Besides experiencing low water levels and sometimes leaks, another water heater problem to keep an eye on is the sudden water temperature changes. Temperature fluctuations can stem from various issues such as faulty valves, the heater being small, or using small pipes from the main water supply.
When your main water line uses small pipes to supply the heater, tiny pipes with small diameters will ultimately suffer from pressure problems. You'll experience this problem when water demand increases, whereby the supply line releases water at high speed.
The increased water speed leads to issues like small pipes bursting and cracking. However, when the problem stems from faulty valves, inconsistent temperatures are primarily due to the pressure-balancing valve malfunctions.
To prove temperature changes come from issues with the pressure–balance valve, you'll likely experience sudden changes between hot and cold water regardless of when the heater is on or off.
If the pressure-balancing valve is working correctly but you still experience cold and hot water sudden changes, the heater is likely suffering from problems with the temperature knob.
To correct this problem:
- Check if the heater is correctly installed
- Inspect the regulating cartridge within faucets and drains
- Ensure the temperature knob is perfectly placed at an angle that connects the power source to efficiently heat or cool the water before it flows into the shower or anywhere else.
3. Unusual Sounds and Noises
Cracking, rumbling, and pooping sounds are the everyday noises your fault water heater produces that indicate malfunctions. When you hear banging noises, it indicates your heater suffers from excess accumulation of mineral deposits and sediment build-ups. On the other hand, ticking sounds suggest the problem is coming from and within the valves, especially the heater pressure valves. To rectify this problem, open the valves and tighten them when loosened or replace them, especially those that fail to tighten up after reopening.
How to Quickly Rectify These Problems
Like most homeowners, you'll want to correct any warning signs your heater needs repairs using your DIY skills. However, to correctly fix small and huge problems, work with an experienced heater technician. At Express Electrical Services, you'll always find a prompt solution.
Contact us today for any water heater problems you face.
