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10 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

signs your water heater needs repair

If you're like most people, you probably don't think much about your water heater until it stops working. However, like any other appliance in your home, your water heater requires regular maintenance to ensure peak performance and efficiency.

Ignoring warning signs that your water heater is in need of repair can result in serious problems, including a complete breakdown of the unit.

That's why it's important to be aware of the early warning signs that your water heater needs repair.

By paying attention to these signs and taking action as soon as possible, you can prevent a small problem from turning into a big one—and save yourself a lot of time, money, and frustration in the process.

Keep reading for 10 signs that you should call a plumber for water heater repair.

1. Fluctuation in Water Temperature

If you notice that the hot water coming from your taps is not as consistent as it used to be, it could be an indication that your water heater needs repair.

This problem is usually caused by faulty thermostats or Sediment build-up inside the tank.

2. Reduced Hot Water Pressure

If you've noticed that the hot water pressure in your home has decreased, it's likely due to a problem with the dip tube.

The dip tube is responsible for delivering cold water to the bottom of the tank, where it's then heated and circulated back into your home.

Over time, this tube can become cracked or broken, which will cause reduced hot water pressure.

3. Leakage of Hot Water

Another sign that your water heater needs repair is leakage of hot water from the tank. This problem is usually caused by a faulty pressure relief valve or a sediment build-up inside the tank.

4. Cloudy Water with an Unpleasant Smell

If you notice that the hot water coming from your taps is cloudy or has an unpleasant smell, it indicates that there's sediment build-up inside the tank.

This problem can be solved by flushing the tank on a regular basis (approximately once per year).

5. Odd Sounds Coming From the Water Heater

If you hear unusual sounds coming from your water heater (such as banging, popping, or hissing), it's usually an indication that there's sediment build-up inside the tank.

When sediment builds up on the bottom of the tank, it can cause these odd noises as well as reduce the efficiency of your unit and shorten its lifespan.

6. Rusty Water

Another sign that your water heater needs repair is rusty-colored hot water coming from your taps.

This problem is usually caused by corrosion inside the tank, which can be caused by sediments in hard water or by too much iron in well water.

7. Lukewarm Water

If you've noticed that the hot water coming from your taps is only lukewarm, it could be an indication that there's a problem with the heating element in your unit.

This problem is usually caused by mineral deposits buildup on the element itself, which prevents it from heating properly.

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8. Hot Water Keeps Finishing

Have you ever jumped into a nice hot shower only to have all the hot water finish before you're even done shampooing? If this happens frequently, it could mean that there's mineral buildup inside the tank preventing heat from being evenly distributed throughout.

As a result, all the hot water ends up being used up quickly leaving you with nothing but cold water for the rest of your shower!

9. The Water Heater is too old

Although modern tanks are built to last 15 years or more, they will eventually reach the end of their lifespan and need to be replaced entirely—regardless of how well they've been maintained over the years.

So if your unit is approaching its 15th birthday (or beyond), pay close attention to any potential problems and consider having it replaced before it completely breaks down on you!

10. You don't perform regular maintenance tasks:

Even if you don't notice any signs that something is wrong with your unit, performing regular maintenance tasks (like flushing out sediments and checking/replacing anode rods) can help extend its lifespan and prevent problems down the road!

Hire a Professional Plumbing Experts in Somerville, MA

If you're unsure whether or not your water heater needs repair, it's always best to call in a professional plumbing expert for help.

At Somerville Plumber Pros, we offer comprehensive water heater services and can help diagnose and solve any problems that may be present. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Conclusion

These are just a few of the most common signs that indicate your water heater needs repair—but if you're ever unsure whether or not something is wrong with yours, don't hesitate to contact a professional for help!

Remember, ignoring potential problems with your unit will only make them worse—and more expensive to fix—in the long run, so take action as soon as possible if you think there may be an issue!

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