Water Heater Troubleshooting

Water Heater Troubleshooting

water heater maintenance and troubleshootingWhen your water heater starts acting up, then it is difficult for your home to function. A failing water heating unit can cause your energy bills to skyrocket. A failing water heater truly makes you realize how much you depend on the need for hot water in your home. Repairing or replacing a water heater should only be left for the professionals. However, you can do a little water heater troubleshooting on your own so that you have an idea of what's going on.

The plumbing and heating professionals at Result Home Services can help you. Our goal is to get your water temperatures under control while reducing your energy bills. Our certified plumbers will repair or replace any make and model of residential or commercial water heater. Below is a list of the most common issues that occur with water heating units:

  • Not Enough Hot Water: A common issue with hot water heaters is sometimes they don't produce enough hot water. Sometimes, it is an easy fix where the temperature just needs to be turned up. However, do not turn the temperature too high because high hot water temperatures can scald you.
  • No Hot Water At All:When you have a gas-powered water heater, then be sure to check the pilot light when you don't have any hot water. If you relight the pilot light and it doesn't stay lit, it could be due to a faulty thermocouple or a faulty pilot control valve. When you water heating unit is electric, is can be due to a malfunctioning heating element. Remember to always call in a pro to address a water heater repair.
  • Stinky Water:When your hot water heater is producing water that has an odor, it typically means that your water has some form of bacteria in it. It usually smells like rotten eggs. You will need to have your water heater flushed and cleaned.
  • Noisy Water Heater: Hot water heating units that are noisy can be caused by a number of things. Usually the problem is created by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. You will need to drain your water tank. Sometimes this type of situation is cause by a heating element that is burning out. Be sure to call in a professional to properly diagnose this issue.
  • Water Heater Is Leaking:A water heater that is truly leaking is usually not a promising sign. It indicates that it is time for a new water heater. Be sure to contact a professional plumber right away.

When your water heater is giving you trouble, be sure to contact Result Home Services right away. Whether you need a free estimate or a plumbing repair, we have the skills, knowledge, and professionalism to handle it. Additionally, our rates are fairly priced and all of our plumbers are friendly and courteous. Be sure to give us a call today to discuss your options with you. (888) 972-8662

Water Heater Reset Button

One of the biggest issues, when it comes to water heater troubleshooting, has to do with the reset button. Many homeowners get frustrated because it keeps popping out and then, it needs to be reset again. This happens over and over again. Usually, when this happens, it is because the water temperature in your water heater is too hot. This is a safety precaution.

When the temperature in your water heater exceeds 180°. The high temperature causes the water heater reset button to trip. It is also called a high-limit switch. This safety feature prevents your household memebers from getting burned when using hot water. The reason that your water in your hot water heating unit is getting so hot is usually due to a bad thermostat.

When a thermostat goes bad, they can get stuck in the "on" position. This means that your water is continuously being heated which, when it reaches 180°, it causes it to trip. Other factors that can cause your reset button to trip are:

  • A shorted heating element
  • Loose wiring
  • A faulty high-limit switch

This is a common issue with malfunctioning water heaters. Be sure to contact Result Home Services right away so that we can get your water heating system back in working order. (888) 972-8662

Water Heater Leaking

When you notice that your water heater is leaking water, then it needs to be addressed immediately. It might not seem like a big deal but a water leak like that, can escalate into a big problem. It causes extensive damage to your home. A water heater leaking can also affect your health. Water and damp areas, can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew which lead to allergies and asthma. Therefore, it is important that you deal with a leaking water heater right away. The problem doesn't go away on its own and it only gets worse with time.

Make sure that it is actually your water heater that is leaking. Sometimes pipes can form condensation and drip on the floor. This can usually happen in the basement during damp weather. Make sure that it is not the water softener, plumbing lines, or some other source. Make sure you check overhead, including the water pipes.

If it is obvious that it is your water heater leaking, then be sure to turn it off. You can turn off the water supply at the cold water shut-off valve. Doing this will slow down the leak or even shut it off.

Be sure to give us a call and let us know what is going on. A water heater replacement is not a DIY plumbing project so it is always important that you leave a job like this up to the pros. Proper disposal and installation of a new unit is critical. When a water heater is installed correctly, it will perform more effectively and more energy efficiently. Let the plumbers at Result Home Services help you with your water heating needs. Give us a call today! (888) 972-8662

Related Water Heater Questions
What is going on with my water heater when I don't have hot water?
When you have a gas water heater, be sure to see if your water heater is getting gas. Sometimes, the gas supply isn't getting to your water heater, causing it not to heat your water. Check the pilot light. If you have a gas or electric water heater, then be sure to check the circuit breaker or fuse box. In an electric water heater, the heating element could be going out and it will need to be replaced.
How does an electric water heater do its job?
Most electric water heaters are connected to a 220-volt circuit. In order to create hot water, the current passes though heating elements. In turn, the heating elements heat the water inside of your water tank.
I want my water to be hotter. How do I turn up the temperature to my water heater?
You can adjust the thermostat on your water heater. If you want your water's temperature to be hotter, then you can use the thermostat to raise the temperature. However, be careful when doing this. Hot water heaters can go all the way up to 180° or more. Such high temperatures can scald you.
How long should I expect it to take for my water heater to be filled?
A 50 gallon tank will take about 20 minutes or so to fill. Then, you should give it an additional 20 minutes to heat the water in your tank. It can take up to 60 minutes for the whole process to be completed. Therefore, if your daughter just emptied the tank, it can take up to an hour before you can comfortably shower again.
My pilot light keeps going out on my water heater. What should i do?
The pilot is the flame that ignites the gas burner in your water heater. Try to relight it when it goes out. Be sure to follow the directions on the water heater label. If your pilot light fails to stay lit, then this can indicate a bad thermocouple. Call a plumber.

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