How to Tell if the Water Heater Is Failing and Needs Service
When appliances break down, the indications are often clear, but sometimes there are subtle warning signals beforehand. With water heaters, leaks and loss of hot water are obvious clues of a problem. However, earlier, harder-to-detect symptoms usually indicate the need for repairs. Here are a few examples of easy-to-miss signals requiring water heater service.
High Utility Costs
The EPA dictates that every water heater sold should meet minimum efficiency standards. The lowest of these standards will be expensive to operate even when the unit is in good shape, but even the most efficient models of water heaters will start to cost more over time. After a water heater has been in service for a few years, the owner will know how much it costs to run every month. If this price spikes suddenly or creeps up over time, something is wrong.
Regular maintenance can prevent or fix high utility bills caused by the water heater. In some cases, damaged parts may need to be repaired to restore efficiency. If the efficiency has always been poor, upgrading to a newer, more efficient model might be necessary.
Unusual Sounds
A water heater shouldn’t make much noise during normal operation. Of course, it can be hard to know a normal sound if somebody has never listened to the unit before. Therefore, experts recommend checking on the water heater and listening for a moment to observe normal sounds, especially after the hot water is depleted and reheated. The noises should be limited to a muted roar of the burner and the occasional ticking sound as the tank expands. Any other noises are abnormal and should be investigated. Some examples of suspicious sounds include:
- Thumping
- Rumbling
- Hissing
- Squealing
- Dripping
If you hear these noises, call a professional. A plumber can help you determine the source of the noise and recommend routine water heater maintenance or repairs to fix the problem.
The Smells or is Discolored
Water heaters can accelerate corrosion in a plumbing system. Steel tanks and metal pipes are particularly vulnerable, as hot water can speed up oxidation. Typically, this is prevented by a tank lining and an anode rod, which corrodes itself instead of allowing the tank or pipes to deteriorate.
Once this protection is gone due to poor maintenance, oxidation can leach into the water and make it grayish or rust-colored. An unusual odor may also result from oxidation, but most are caused by bacteria surviving in the water heater. If water quality issues are noticed in a home’s hot water, it is worth calling a plumber to determine the cause and whether the water heater is the source.
About Postma Heating & Cooling
Postma Heating & Cooling offers flat-rate pricing and same-day water heater repair or installation service. As ClimateCare members, their teams can help homeowners lower their water heating bills and improve the longevity of their units. Satisfaction is guaranteed. Call today for water heater repairs and maintenance services in Chatham-Kent, ON.
