Is Your Household Suffering From a Faulty Water Heater?

3 Signs of Malfunctioning Water Heaters

Water heaters are one of the most important appliances in the home. The good news is that with the right information, families can be prepared to deal with a failing water heater. Before water heaters malfunction, they can show certain signs indicating they need service. Here are some signs indicating that the water heater is experiencing problems and needs repair or replacement. 

Unusual Noises 

Water heaters aren’t intended to be displayed. They are usually tucked away in a closet or basement, virtually forgotten. One of the reasons they may get neglected is because they are quiet and reliable. Since water heaters are so quiet, the first sign that something is wrong is loud noises from the unit. 

Under normal circumstances, gas water heaters will make a quiet rushing noise as the burner cycles, and electric water heaters make even less noise. So if homeowners hear unusual noises from their water heater, it needs service. The most common noises a water heater will make that indicate a problem are thumping or popping sounds. When water heater maintenance is neglected, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the hot water tank. These solids interfere with water heating and allow water to boil underneath the scale. Hearing strange sounds from the tank typically means the tank needs to be drained and flushed by a professional to remove the sediment and prevent tank corrosion. 

Discolored, Stinky Water 

Corrosion is an ever-present problem in plumbing. In water heaters, anode rods protect the tank and nearby plumbing from corrosion. However, these anode rods protect the tank by allowing themselves to be corroded instead. Once the anode rod corrodes, the water heater loses its protection. 

One of the signs that the anode rod in a water heater is bad and needs to be replaced is foul-smelling and discolored hot water. Discolored and bad-smelling hot water could also indicate the hot water tank is already corroded. If the tank is corroded, it will likely require a water heater replacement. 

Water Leaks 

One of the risks of neglecting to replace a corroded water heater is leaks become more common. Leaks in the tank of a water heater caused by corrosion will likely require replacing the system. This is why water heater maintenance is so essential. It prevents corrosion and the need for early replacement. 

However, if leaks not caused by corrosion are spotted in the water heater, it may only require repair. A plumbing contractor can inspect the water heating system to determine the extent of the damage and the cause of the leak so they can recommend the best solution, whether it be repair or replacement. 

About West Plumbing LLC

West Plumbing LLC was named on the Best of HomeAdvisor list three years in a row serving Chandler and the surrounding communities. They provide flat rate pricing, always on-time service, and financing. Call them today for water heater services in Chandler, AZ.

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