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Common Water Heater Repairs

2 May 2022 by Bill Turner

Your water heater provides hot water to the different showers and faucets in your home. You probably don't give your water heater much thought—until it stops working. When you have a problem with your water heater, you need to call for a water heater repair or water heater replacement as soon as possible to enjoy hot water again. Here are some common water heater issues you may encounter. 

1. Leaks

Water heaters may develop leaks over time. If the leak occurs at a valve, you may simply need to replace the valve with a new one. However, if the leak comes from the water heater tank itself, that's a sign of corrosion eating at the tank material. Corrosion is a natural occurrence that turns metal into rust over time, expedited by heat and exposure to water. When the corrosion eats at the metal enough, it can create a leak in the tank. While you can put a bandaid on a small leak, a tank leak is a sign you may need a brand new water heater soon.   

2. Rusty Water 

All water has minerals in it. The most common minerals in water include calcium, magnesium, and limestone. However, rust may get into the water, too, as a result of corrosion. Most minerals in your water don't present a health risk. However, high rust levels can be cause for concern. If you notice that your hot water appears discolored or it smells like rotten eggs, you may want to schedule a repair. To resolve the issue, your plumber may change out the anode rod in the water heater tank with a zinc anode rod instead of an aluminum anode rod. 

3. Heating Element/Gas Burner Failure  

When your hot water heater doesn't deliver any hot water, you may have a faulty heating element (in electric water heaters) or gas burner (in gas water heaters). This may happen over time, especially if you have hard water and fail to flush your water heater regularly. A plumber can replace the damaged component. 

4. Pressure Valve Failure 

It requires a significant amount of pressure to generate hot water. While rare, excessive pressure levels can get so bad they cause your water heater to explode. A pressure relief valve on the water heater allows excess pressure to escape. If the pressure valve fails, the water heater may start shaking and building up pressure. Shut off power to the water heater immediately and have a plumber replace the damaged valve. 

Don't live with sub-par water heating. Schedule a water heater repair company—such as Mr. Waterheater—today to make your showers comfortable again. 

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