Most of us only think about water heaters when something goes wrong, so taking notice of warning signs to know when yours needs repair can help make sure you address it before it gets worse.
This article will go over key warning signs to pay attention to.
If you spot any of these warning signs with your water heater, it’s a good idea to have it checked out by professionals like those at J Blanton Plumbing.
1. Your water isn’t hot
Nothing beats a hot shower after a long day, but when your hot water starts failing, it can become an enormous hassle that interferes with relaxation and daily chores.
If you turn on the faucet and only get cold or barely warm water, the cause could be a malfunctioning water heater. The loss of heat in your water could be a sign that something is broken.
An intermittent heating problem could also indicate internal issues with your heater, though other possible causes include low water pressure or mineral build-up. Whatever the issue, it’s essential to have it inspected promptly to prevent it from deteriorating.
2. Oddly-colored water
Water that doesn’t meet your standards when turning on the faucet may indicate an issue in your plumbing and indicate that professional repairs may be needed.
Brown or yellowish water could be a telltale sign of sediment accumulation within your hot water heater tank, signaling the build-up of dirt or sediment that must be addressed to restore proper functioning.
Green or blue water could indicate copper is leaking from your pipes and becoming harmful to your health. To mitigate this situation and stop further leaking, immediate plumbing repair services will likely be required to stop further leaks from worsening.
Please consult with your water company on possible reasons behind its color change and potential solutions.
3. Odorous water
Water reeking of rotten eggs or sewage could be a telltale sign of bacteria growth in your water heater, drains, or pipes. The smell is produced by hydrogen sulfide gas produced when bacteria breaks down in these areas.
If the smell worsens when hot, then most likely, the problem lies in your water heater.
Other odors found in the water may come from chemical reactions or high concentrations of minerals in its water source. Although not harmful, such smells may still be unpleasant and should not pose any immediate health threats.
4. Water is leaking
Water leaking from your water heater is a serious threat that can result in flooding and costly home repairs. Ruptured tanks or loose fittings may cause leaks.
If you notice pooling water near your tank, don’t wait to have it inspected. Prompt repairs can help prevent any further water damage. Additionally, addressing the leak immediately will save you money on your utility bill.
Water heater issues should be taken seriously
As soon as these issues arise, they must be repaired quickly to minimize potential damages and save yourself the additional expenses of repairs.