If you jump in the shower and realize that it is freezing cold, this can wake you up faster than a cup of coffee. On the other hand, this could also be a sign that something is wrong with your water heater. Particularly if this takes place during the winter, this is an emergency that needs to be addressed quickly. Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home and it requires urgent attention if a repair is required. If you delay your water heater repair, this could lead to a leak, which makes the problem worse. There are a few common signs that you should watch for that might indicate your water heater needs a repair.
1. There Are Strange Noises Coming From the Water Heater
If you hear unusual noises coming from your water heater, then you need to contact a professional to take a look at it. For example, if you hear cracks and popping sounds, something is reacting inappropriately in your water heater. Over time, this might progress to the sound of a thunderstorm. Usually, the culprit is mineral deposits that are building up on the heating element. Residue builds up at the base of the water heater over time. As these sediments harden, they create unfamiliar and strange noises.
2. The Water Heater Is Leaking and Pooling
There is nothing worse than realizing there is a leak coming from your water heater. On the other hand, if you are able to catch these leaks earlier, then you can save a lot of money. Therefore, take a brief walk around the water heater on a regular basis. If there are leaks coming from the water heater, then the internal tank probably needs to be replaced. Do not wait on this because leaks from your water heater can get worse over time, particularly if they burst.
3. The Faucet Is Creating Warm Water
If you realize that your faucet is only providing warm water instead of hot water, then there is probably something wrong with the water heater. Check the temperature of your water heater first and make sure that it is set to 140 degrees F instead of 120 degrees F. If your water heater is on full blast and the water still isn’t hot, then it is time to call a professional plumber to take a look at it. There is probably a repair that has to be completed.
4. The Water Is Contaminated
If there is something off with the color of your water, then the culprit might be the water heater. You might notice rust particles in the water. You might also notice that the water smells metallic. You could also notice that your water looks like mud. Usually, the culprit is sediment that has built up at the bottom of the water heater itself. This is another issue that requires the attention of a trained professional.
5. Your Utility Bills Are Going Up
Finally, if you notice that your utility bills are going up, this could be a sign that your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced. If your water heater has to work harder to heat the water in the tank, then you might notice higher electricity bills. If your water heater has a leak, then you might notice that your water bills are going up. Regardless, this is something that you want to address quickly. You don’t want to spend more money on your utilities than you must.
Address Water Heater Repair Problems Quickly with Professional Help
These are a few of the most common signs that something might be wrong with your water heater. Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. Therefore, you need to protect it. Rely on the help of a trained plumber for all issues related to your water heater.