It is hard to imagine what life would be like without a functioning water heater. They are so crucial for providing us with the hot water we need for showers, dishwashing and laundry. But there are some common issues that you may face, such as when your unit starts leaking or has a persistent smell coming from it. Check out our blog post for more information!
Solutions for Common Issues
There are a few common issues that people can run into with their water heaters. These problems include clogged or broken pipes, rusty water lines, and sediment buildup from corroding pipes. To fix any issues with your water heater, it is essential to have a licensed plumber come out and repair the pipe or replace the heater altogether.
Here are some typical solutions for water heater problems that you can try if they ever occur:
- Clogged or Broken Pipes – You may hear water pipes banging whenever you run your water. This can be an indication that there is a clog or something stuck in the pipe. If this occurs, try flushing with hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Check out our blog post for more information!
- Rusty Water Lines – If you notice rusty water coming from your hot water line, this could be a sign that the inside of the pipe has started to corrode. To fix this problem, bring in a plumber to replace the pipe and check all your other pipes for rust as well.
- Rusty Water Heater – This is often an indication of a rust issue inside the tank. If this happens to you, consider replacing your water heater.
- Rusty Pipes – This is usually caused by a corroded pipe or old copper pipes. To avoid this problem in the future, have galvanized steel pipes installed in place of your current ones! They may cost more upfront, but they’ll last longer and save you from future problems.
- Dirty Heat Exchanger – If the bottom of your water heater is dirty, this may be a sign that it needs to be cleaned. Use vinegar with warm water to wipe down the bottom of your water tank. This will help reduce the amount of sediment buildup in the water heater!
- Sediment Build-up – Over time, sediment may build up in your water tank, which can cause the smell of sulfur to linger. This is an indication that you should have your water heater cleaned or replaced.
- Runny Shower Heads – Go ahead and take a look at the tip of your shower head; if it’s discoloured, but your water is coming out clear, you may need a new shower head. Try unscrewing the tip of the showerhead and replacing it to fix this issue!
Extra Tips on the common problems
How to Prevent Future Problems?
The best way to prevent future problems with your water heater is to have it installed by a professional. Only licensed plumbers are allowed to install water heaters. A heating specialist will also be able to inspect your unit for wear and tear and replace any parts that can no longer function properly.
They can also provide maintenance to ensure that the unit runs at peak efficiency and does not break down during the coldest winter months.
When Should I Call a Plumber for My Water Heater Issue?
As soon as your water heater begins to leak, you should call a plumber. A small leak can easily be fixed with an O-ring or gasket replacement that you might be able to do on your own, but recurring leaks are often the sign of more significant problems such as sediment buildup and corrosion issues. It is also essential to call a plumber as soon as you notice that your water smells rotten or is discoloured.
What to Do if You Have an Emergency Situation With Your Unit?
Before you take any action, make sure to turn off the breaker that controls your water heater. Also, you can remove the faucet from your heater to prevent further damage or stress to it. If there is mould growing on your water tank and it has already corroded through a hole into the unit, then drain the entire system. Then, you can use baking soda to clean out the tank and make sure it is free of any damage. If your water heater isn’t working correctly, contact a licensed plumber to come by your house and look at what the problem might be. In some cases, they may need to replace parts of your unit if they are determined to be faulty.
Conclusion
Water heaters may be one of the most underrated appliances in your home, but they are crucial for providing you with hot water. Unfortunately, many common issues can arise, and it is vital to know how to deal with these problems before they worsen or lead to a more severe plumbing leak. To avoid any significant headaches down the line, make sure that you consider all of these potential pitfalls when dealing with your water heater!
Related Read: Essential buying guide for water heater in Malaysia
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