Signs That the Water Heater Needs Service
A water heater is an essential household appliance often overlooked until the moment it malfunctions, like being greeted with a cold shower on a chilly morning can be jarring. Understanding the signs that a water heater needs professional attention is vital in preventing such unpleasant surprises. This blog will share various signs that a water heater is experiencing issues and requires attention from a professional.
It’s Making Unusual Sounds
The sounds a machine makes can tell a lot about the state it is currently in. Loud, popping sounds from the water heater, for example, may be due to excess sediment in the water heater tank and maintenance being neglected. Over time, the sediment and mineral deposits can form a hardened layer over the heating element or along the inside wall of the water tank, which creates a loud popping noise as heat builds up inside the tank.
This indicates the water heater needs maintenance, which involves having a plumber drain and flush the hot water tank and check the anode rod to see if it needs to be replaced. These essential water heater maintenance tasks help the unit perform efficiently and help prevent tank corrosion which would require replacing the water heater early.
Hot Water in the Home Is Smelly and Discolored
Another common sign of water heater problems is the quality of hot water that comes out of plumbing fixtures around the home. If the hot water smells bad or comes out looking cloudy, discolored, or tinted red with what looks like rust, it can be a sign of corrosion in the water heater.
A corroded water heater means that the tank material has degraded over time, which can cause bits and pieces of the rusted tank to come off and contaminate the water that comes out of it, creating poor water quality. When the water heater has corroded, it will likely require a replacement rather than a repair.
It’s Leaking
Any leak in any part of the home requires immediate attention, including if this happens to a hot water heater. Leaks from a water heater may mean that corrosion has damaged the tank’s material and compromised its durability, causing a leak, or the leak may be due to a more minor issue, such as a loose valve.
While it’s possible for a leaking water heater to be repaired if it requires a part or valve to be tightened or replaced, a corroded water heater will likely need replacement. A professional can assess the extent of the water heater’s damage to determine the best solution to fix the water heater.
About Total Comfort Solutions
Total Comfort Solutions has over a decade of experience serving Walla Walla and the surrounding communities. They provide 24-hour emergency service, straightforward pricing, and on-time service. Call them today for water heater services in Walla Walla, WA.
