How To Troubleshoot Water Heater

Troubleshooting Checklist for an Electric Water Heater

Electric water heaters have a similar appearance to their gas-fueled counterparts. In order to limit heat loss from the heated water, they both employ an insulated steel storage tank jacket, with insulation between the storage tank and the tank jacket. The primary difference between electric and gas water heaters is the source of heat used to heat the water. Electric upper and lower heating components that extend into the water tank heat the water in an electric water heater, which is powered by electricity.

When it comes to electric water heaters that provide little or no heat, the most common problem is a faulty heating element, which is a pretty affordable component that is quite simple to repair.

Watch Now: How to Repair an Electric Water Heater

Unlike its gas-fueled counterparts, electric water heaters have a more modern appearance. In order to limit heat loss from the heated water, they both employ an insulated steel storage tank jacket, with insulation installed between the storage tank and tank jacket. There is a significant variation in the heat source between electric and gas water heaters. When using an electric water heater, the water is heated by electric upper and lower heating elements that extend into the water tank and into the faucet.

Electric water heaters that produce little or no heat are typically plagued by problems with their heating elements, which are affordable and very simple to repair.

Warning

Working with electric water heaters when the power is on is risky since they are high-voltage (240-volt) equipment that can cause electrocution. Turn off the electricity to the water heater’s circuit by turning off the relevant breaker in your home’s service panel before inspecting any electrical components of the water heater (breaker box). Also, use a non-contact voltage tester to check all of the wires in the water heater to ensure that the power is turned off before touching any of the wires.

How to Fix

Working with electric water heaters when the power is on may be quite dangerous because of the high voltage (240 volts). Shut off the electricity to the water heater’s circuit by turning off the relevant breaker in your home’s service panel before you begin testing any electrical components of the water heater (breaker box). A non-contact voltage tester should be used to check all of the wires in the water heater to ensure that the power is off before touching any of the wires.

No Hot Water

A water heater that does not generate hot water might be due to a lack of electricity, a tripped limit switch, or one or more faulty heating components, to name a few possibilities. As a first step, make sure that the circuit breaker for your water heater is not tripped on your panel of electrical circuit breakers.

Switch off the circuit breaker and then turn it back on if it has been tripped. If the heater’s breaker does not trip (i.e., if it is still turned on), attempt the following steps to reset the high-temperature limit:

1. Turn off the circuit breaker for the water heater’s circuit at the service panel if necessary. Removing the access panel for the water heater’s upper heating element is a good idea. Carefully remove all of the insulation and the plastic safety shield, taking care not to come into contact with any of the wires or electrical connections
2. To reset the high-temperature cutoff, press the red button above the higher thermostat, which is positioned above the upper thermostat. Reinstall the safety guard, the insulating material, and the access panel. Turn on the circuit breaker for the heater. Test each heating element and replace it if required if this does not resolve the problem

“The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Inadequate Hot Water

If your water heater is producing hot water but not enough of it, it is possible that your unit is too small to satisfy the hot water demands of your home. Take precautions to ensure that the water heater’s capacity does not exceed the demand.

How to Fix

The water heater should be able to provide hot water to a capacity of 75% of its total capacity. For example, a 40-gallon water heater is appropriately suited for a 30-gallon demand. If the demand exceeds the capacity of the heater, attempt to restrict the length of showers, install low-flow showerheads, and spread out dishwashing and laundry to different times of the day rather than doing them all at the same time to reduce the strain on the heater. The failure of one or both of your unit’s heating elements, even if your unit is not undersized, might indicate that one or both of its heating elements have failed.

When hot water runs out rapidly during a shower, it is an indication of a faulty bottom heating element in the shower.

Water Temperature Is Too Hot

When there is too much hot water, it may be almost as annoying as when there is not enough hot water. If you’re encountering this problem, it’s possible that one or both of the thermostats on your water heater are set too high.

How to Fix

To double-check the thermostat settings, do the following:

1. In the service panel, turn off the electricity to the water heater to conserve energy. The access panel, insulation, and plastic safety shield from each heating element on the water heater should be removed before continuing. Do not come into contact with any wires or electrical terminals. Using a non-contact voltage tester, check the cables to ensure that the power has been turned off. Ensure that the heat is set correctly on both thermostats: Both of them should be at the same temperature as each other. 115 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit is the acceptable temperature range. Make use of a flathead screwdriver to adjust the temperature to the correct level
2. And Set the other thermostat to the same temperature as the first
3. For each element, replace the safety guard, insulation, and access panel as needed. Turn on the circuit breaker for the heater.

“The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Water Leaks

Candace Madonna and The Spruce

How to Fix

Leaks from water heater tanks can occur as a result of faulty heating components or corrosion in the tank. Inspect the elements for looseness and, if required, tighten them with an element wrench to prevent them from moving. A rusted tank is unable to be repaired and must be completely replaced instead. Turn off the water heater’s power and water supply, and then totally drain the tank to stop the leaks from occurring. “The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Rust-Colored Water or Bad Odor

If your water has a brown, yellow, or red tinge to it as it comes out of the faucet, corrosion might be occuring within your water heater tank or in the pipes in your home. If your water comes out smelling like rotten eggs, it’s possible that bacteria has built up in the tank of your hot water heater. A professional plumber may be required to replace the anode rod in the tank, which is something that you should avoid doing unless absolutely necessary. courtesy of KariHoglund / Getty Images

Tank Making Noises

If your water has a brown, yellow, or red colour to it as it comes out of the faucet, it is possible that corrosion is occuring within your water heater tank or in the pipes in your residence. A buildup of germs in the hot water heater tank might be the cause of rotten egg smell coming from your faucet. A professional plumber may be required to repair the anode rod in the tank, which is something that you should seek out if this happens. Getty Images / KariHoglund /

How to Fix

In order to remove the silt from the tank, the first thing to attempt is to empty it.

The tank may need to be replaced if this does not alleviate the problem. “The Spruce” is a song by Candace Madonna.

Water Heaters: Common Problems & Troubleshooting Tips – Oehlert Bros.

Your water heater works tirelessly in the background of your house, supplying hot water to your faucets and appliances while you’re not there. In certain cases, it works too hard, resulting in issues that may necessitate the use of a professional service provider. Here are four typical water heater problems, as well as some suggestions for how to resolve each one. Always remember to switch off the electricity to your water heater at the circuit breaker before doing any diagnostic work on the unit!

4 Most Common Water Heater Issues

1. Troubleshooting water heater temperature issues– Water heater temperature issues are among the most typical difficulties that you’ll experience with your water heater. Here are three types of water temperature difficulties, as well as the most likely causes of each and how to deal with them:

• Water heater temperature problems– Water heater temperature problems are among the most prevalent difficulties that you’ll experience. Listed below are three different types of water temperature difficulties, as well as the most likely causes of each and how to resolve them:

• There are many different reasons why water leaks occur, including the following:

• Insufficient temperature and pressure (T P) relief valve, insufficient water pressure, overheating, a jammed valve, an unnoticed plumbing connection leak, loose heating element bolts, a damaged gasket, an overflowing water tank are all possible causes.

1. Check for any visibly loose plumbing connections and tighten (but not overtighten) them if necessary to decrease the leak’s severity. After that, inspect the loose heating element bolts and tighten them as necessary. If the gasket around the heating element is still leaking, you will most likely need to replace it (we recommendhiring a professionalto do this). Check for leaks on or around the storage tank, since storage tanks often corrode from the inside out, and you may be witnessing the beginning of the end of your water heater’s service life at this point. It is possible to eliminate tank leaks entirely by upgrading to a tankless water heater
2. The equipment lasts almost twice as long as a traditional tank and occupies only one fifth of the area in your basement. When your tank’s inner lining is corroded, it might result in discolored water. This is most typically caused by a faulty anode rod. Obtain the services of a competent water heater expert to assess whether repairing the anode rod would resolve the issue
3. If not, replace the water heater
4. Strange noises coming from your water heater– The most common source of strange noises coming from your water heater is sediment buildup. You may make an attempt to resolve this issue by flushing the water heater – watch this video for instructions on how to accomplish this. Call us if the problem persists after you have flushed your water heater or if the sediment accumulation is too large to remove. You may need a new water heater installed.

Do you require a water heater replacement or water heater servicing for your Pennsylvania residence? Put your trust in the professionals at Oehlert Bros. For additional information, or to receive a FREE, no-obligation quote for a water heater update, contact us now!

Common Water Heater Problems (AND WHAT TO CHECK)

Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links. Tank-type water heaters, on the other hand, are rather straightforward items. While all of their components are vital, there are just a handful of them when compared to the number of components in other appliances. The majority of repairs may be done on your own without spending a lot of money. However, if the problem is with the water tank itself, a new water heater is typically the only option.

There are categories for both electric and gas water heaters to make it easier for you to find what you need.

As is always the case, if you are not totally confident in your ability to do the repairs yourself, you should seek the assistance of a professional plumber.

Electric Water Heater Troubleshooting

(Click here to get to the section about GAS water heater issues.) (Click on image to expand)

Water Leaking From the Top

Problems with GAS water heaters (Click here to get to that page.) The image may be seen in more detail by clicking here.

Water Leaking From the Bottom

Normal condensation, a leaky electric heating element gasket, or a tiny quantity of water being ejected via the overflow pipe because the T P valve is opening to relieve excess pressure in the tank are all possible causes of an electric water heater leaking from the bottom. It’s possible that the water heater’s actual tank is leaking, in which case the only solution is to replace the water heater. For further information, read Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom for a detailed explanation.

No Hot Water

The water in an electric water heater is heated by two heating elements that are connected together (in most cases). There are several possible causes for absolutely no hot water, but the most likely is that the circuit breaker has tripped. Check the breaker box first. If that is not the case, it is possible that the heating components have failed and need to be replaced.

It’s also possible that there’s a problem with the limit/reset switch on the thermostat. It may have tripped because the water was far too hot, or it could have just failed and required replacement.

Not Enough Hot Water

Two heating elements are used to heat the water in an electric water heater (in most cases). You should examine the breaker box first since the most typical reason for no hot water is because the circuit breaker has been tripped, which you should do first. It’s possible that the heating components have failed and that they will need to be replaced if this is not the case. Additionally, the limit/reset switch on the thermostat may be malfunctioning. It may have tripped because the water was far too hot, or it could have just failed and needed to be repaired or replaced completely.

Water is Too Hot

Once again, this is most likely connected to the thermostat(s), which are set to an excessively high temperature. Simply get access to the thermostat and make the necessary adjustments. During the shift from the cold to the warm seasons, this may also be required. Please see this page for our recommended temperature setting. If you are unable to get the water temperature down to a satisfactory level, you may need to replace the thermostat, or there may be a wiring problem (recommended to call a pro if the later).

Water Takes Too Long to Reheat

One of the disadvantages of electric water heaters is that they are inefficient. Recovery time (the amount of time it takes to reheat the full supply of water) on an electric model is approximately twice as long as it is on a comparable gas type. The amount of time it takes to heat water might vary significantly across different kinds of water heater. In most cases, newer is preferable. Accordingly, if it is taking longer than normal for the hot water to recover, there may be a problem with the heating elements (including sediment build-up on them) or the thermostat, and these components may need to be changed.

However, we recommend that you conduct some study on thetankless vs tank water heatercomparison before making a decision.

Low Hot Water Pressure

The majority of people who complain about poor hotwater pressure live in older homes with 1/2-inch diameter galvanized pipe that enters and exits the water heater. The only way to overcome the automatic limitation of water pressure is to install new 3/4-inch plumbing, which enables for more water to flow through it. Water pressure problems can be caused by a variety of factors including sediment, calcium deposits, and corrosion in your plumbing or sink aerators.

Water Heater is Making Strange Noises

Popping, hissing, slamming, knocking, or other weird noises coming from your water heater are most likely caused by scale buildup on your heating elements or an excessive amount of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Among the other sources of noise include a leak someplace, too much pressure inside the tank, and loud pipes as a result of the tank’s natural expanding and compressing.

When your water heater makes noise, there’s usually nothing to worry about, but it should always be checked out for your own peace of mind.

Dirty or Rusty Colored Water

Popping, hissing, pounding, knocking, or other weird noises coming from your water heater are most likely caused by scale buildup on your heating elements or an excessive amount of sediment buildup at the bottom of your tank. A leak someplace, excessive pressure inside the tank, or loud pipes as a result of natural expanding and contracting are all possible reasons of noise. Although it is generally unnecessary to investigate whether your water heater is producing noise, doing so for peace of mind is always a good idea.

Smelly Hot Water

Bacteria in the hot water tank is the most common cause of odorous or stinky hot water. Homes that utilize well water as their primary water supply are more prone to their water emitting a foul odor than other types of homes. Periodic cleaning of the water heater may temporarily alleviate the sulfur or rotten egg smell from your hot water, but to permanently eliminate the sulfur or rotten egg smell from your hot water, you will most likely need to replace the anode rod. Better better, try using a powered anode rod, which will eliminate the odor while also extending the life of the rod.

To learn more about how to troubleshoot an electric water heater in greater depth, please watch the video below:

Gas Water Heater Troubleshooting

(Click on image to expand)

Water Leaking From the Top

As with an electric water heater, you should first inspect the cold water input and hot water exit pipes and connections to ensure that they are not loose or leaking water. Another possible source of the leak might be a malfunctioning or loose temperature and pressure relief valve or an intake valve. More information may be found atWater Heater Leaking from the Top.

Water Leaking From the Bottom

There are several possible causes of water leaking from the bottom of a gas water heater, including moisture (try raising the thermostat), a leaky or loosedrain valve, or the T P valve draining some water through the overflow line as a result of overpressurization in the tank. The replacement of the water heater is required if the corrosion in the water heater tank is the cause of the water leak. Additional information may be found at Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom.

No Hot Water

There are several possible causes of water leaking from the bottom of a gas water heater, including moisture (try raising the thermostat), a leaky or loose drain valve, and the T P valve emptying some water down the overflow line as a result of tank overpressurization (see Figure 1). The replacement of the water heater is required if the corrosion in the water heater tank is the source of the water leak. Additional information may be found at Water Heater Leaking from the Bottom.

Not Enough Hot Water

Not having enough hot water or running out of hot water too soon can be caused by a number of factors, including not having the thermostat set at a high enough temperature (especially in the winter months), a malfunctioning thermostat, or a broken or damaged dip tube, which allows the incoming cold water to mix with the hot water on top of the water heater. It’s possible that you’re not getting enough hot water simply because your water heater tank is too small for your requirements.

Despite the fact that you may have a 40-gallon tank, only around 28-30 gallons of useful hot water may be available at any given moment. It’s possible that you’ll be upgrading to a bigger water heater or a tankless type in the near future.

Water is Too Hot

The most likely explanation is that you have the thermostat set too high. This is especially prevalent during the transition from the colder Winter months to the warmer Spring and Summer months, when people forget to lower the thermostat after boosting it to accommodate for the colder Winter temperatures. A malfunctioning thermostat that requires replacement is a less common scenario. Do you have issues with the installation of your water heater? Then this post is written specifically for you.

Water Takes Too Long to Reheat

A common problem is that you have the temperature set too high. Most commonly, this occurs when people are migrating from the colder Winter months to the warmer Spring and Summer months and neglect to lower their thermostat after boosting it to compensate for the colder Winter temperatures. A defective thermostat that requires replacement is a less likely occurrence. What if you’re having trouble installing a water heater? If so, this post is written specifically foryou.

Low Hot Water Pressure

If you live in an older home, there’s a strong possibility that you have galvanized plumbing with a 1/2-inch diameter throughout your home. This has a significant impact on the amount of hot water that may pass through your home’s plumbing system. The only method, however, to acquire considerably higher hot water pressure than you now have is to upgrade to the newer 3/4-inch plumbing that is commonly seen in modern homes. Certainly not a simple undertaking. You may be able to modestly boost water pressure by clearing out sink aerators or shower heads that tend to become clogged over time, but this will need some effort.

Pilot Will Not Light

A number of factors might be at play when the pilot light on a water heater won’t light despite your efforts to get it to do so. A blocked or damaged pilot light aperture or tube, a thermocouple that is loose or broken, air in the gas line, or a malfunctioning gas valve are all possibilities.

Pilot Will Not Stay Lit

A number of factors might be at play when the pilot light on a water heater won’t light despite your efforts to illuminate it. In this case, it is either the pilot light aperture or tube is blocked or requires repair, the thermocouple is loose or damaged, there is air in the fuel line, or the gas valve is malfunctioning.

Burner Does Not Stay Lit

A burner that occasionally goes out or generates an unusually high or low flame, or even a whistling sound, is most often caused by unclean or blocked burner orifices, which are common in older homes. A malfunctioning thermocouple or a clogged vent, similar to the situation with the pilot light, might possibly be the source of the problem.

Water Heater is Making Strange Noises

The same as with an electric water heater, hissing, popping, knocking, or pounding noises can occasionally be detected.

Typically, this is caused by sediment buildup in the tank’s bottom, expanding/contracting piping that scrapes against wood framing within the walls, or dirty/clogged portions through which the gas is forced to pass.

Rusty Colored Water

It is common for corrosion to occur on the anode rod or within the water tank itself. While changing the anode rod is not a difficult or expensive task, if the tank begins to exhibit indications of corrosion, the situation becomes more serious. When this happens, it’s just a matter of time before a leak occurs, at which point a replacement water heater will be necessary.

Smelly Hot Water

This is most likely due to a buildup of germs within the tank. Simply raising the temperature to around 140 degrees should be sufficient to kill off the germs, but a thorough cleaning of the tank with chlorine bleach may be required. If the stench returns, it is probable that the anode rod has reached the end of its useful life and will need to be replaced. A more precise answer could be what you’re searching for, though.

• Manuals for Rheem water heaters, A.O. Smith water heater manuals, and other brands.

8 Reasons Your Hot Water Heater is Not Working & How to Fix

When compared to other household equipment such as dishwashers and washing machines, the hotwater heater in your home is utilized on a regular basis. Using this equipment, you can wash dishes, shower, do laundry, and wash your hands in warm water, all of which are common everyday duties. As a result of the high volume of water that your family uses on a daily basis, it is not uncommon for difficulties to arise. Tank-style hot water heaters, on the other hand, are designed with a bare minimum of parts to ensure long-term reliability.

Our experts have put together a list of common problems with hot water heaters, as well as instructions on how to remedy them.

Water Heater ProblemsSolutions

In contrast to a water leak in the bottom of your water tank, a water leak on the top of your system may be quickly and simply repaired. A faulty in-line valve is one of the most prevalent causes of water tank leaks. Water flow may be activated or deactivated using this handle, which is placed at the top of the water tank and is designed to do so. In order to resolve this issue, you will need to tighten the nut that keeps the ball or in-line valve in place. If the leak gets more serious after the fitting has been tightened, you will need to visit your local hardware shop to purchase a new in-line valve for your water heater, which will cost you around $30.

Damaged Pressure Relief Valve

In contrast to a water leak in the bottom of your water tank, a water leak on the top of your system may be quickly and simply corrected. Having a faulty in-line valve is a typical source of water tank leaks. This is a handle that is positioned at the top of the water tank and is designed to be used to either activate or deactivate the water flow. The nut that keeps the ball or in-line valve in place will need to be tightened to correct the malfunction. You will need to go to your local hardware shop to get a new in-line valve for your water heater if the leak becomes more serious after you have tightened the fitting.

No Warm Water

If you have an electric water heater in your house, the most common reason of a lack of warm water is a faulty heating element, which may be repaired or replaced. Your water heater is equipped with two heating elements, each of which is responsible for heating the incoming water in the water tank to a comfortable temperature. After a heating element begins to fail, you will have little to no hot water to use for showering, cleaning, or doing laundry once the problem is identified. On the other hand, there are a range of issues that might prevent the generation of warm water from a gas water heater from functioning properly.

A thermocouple that has failed in your home may potentially be the source of your lack of hot water.

With the purchase of replacement components, each of these components may be quickly and simply replaced. It is recommended that if your hot water heater is not functioning properly that you either purchase replacement components or call a certified plumber for assistance with water heater repair.

Low Supply of Hot Water

If you have an electric water heater in your house, the most common reason of a lack of warm water is a faulty heating element, which may be repaired. Your water heater is equipped with two heating elements, each of which is responsible for heating the incoming water in the water tank to the appropriate temperature. You will have little to no hot water to use for showering, cleaning, and doing laundry if a heating element begins to break down. When it comes to gas water heaters, however, there are a range of issues that might prevent the heater from producing warm water.

If you have a thermocouple that has failed, it is possible that you will have no hot water in your home.

It is recommended that if your hot water heater is not functioning properly that you either purchase replacement components or contact a certified plumber for assistance with water heater repair.

Water is Too Warm or Cold

It is possible to modify the temperature of your shower water if the water seems too hot or too cold in your shower by adjusting the settings on your thermostat. Increasing the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit may allow you to save money on your power costs in the long run. In the event that you are concerned about burning or skin irritation, this is an appropriate temperature to employ. Is this temperature a little too chilly for you? You may also lower the temperature of your shower to 140 degrees Fahrenheit to make it more enjoyable to shower.

Find a competent plumbing or heating contractor in your region as soon as possible to repair or replace your broken thermostat.

Low Water Pressure

It is possible to modify the temperature of your shower water if the water seems too hot or too cold while you are showering by adjusting the settings on your thermostat. Increasing the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit may allow you to save money on your power costs in the long term. If you’re worried about scorching or skin irritation, this is a perfect temperature to utilize. What do you think about this temperature? You may also lower the temperature of your shower to 140 degrees Fahrenheit to make it more enjoyable.

Find a competent plumbing or heating contractor in your neighborhood as soon as possible to repair or replace your thermostat.

Discolored Water

The water that comes out of your sink in your home should be crystal clear. Do you have water that is discolored in your residence? If you notice this, it indicates that the water tank or the anode rod of your water heater is deteriorating. Fortunately, if this problem is discovered in its early stages, it may be resolved. Repair or tune-up services for the hot water heater in your house may be obtained by contacting a local plumber in your neighborhood. A qualified plumbing or HVAC specialist will be able to simply remove and replace the anode rod in your system without causing damage to the system.

Water will seep through the cracks in your house’s floors and furnishings as a result of this.

A fresh new system, which will be specifically designed to suit this hot water heater problem, will be necessary. It is preferable to notify early indicators of corrosion to a specialist in order to guarantee that they are corrected and save money.

Takes a Long Time to Produce Warm Water

Once your water tank is completely depleted, it should not take more than a couple of minutes to refill it with warm water again. If it takes an hour or more for you to obtain warm water from your water heater, this is an indication that the burner orifice has been polluted. A poor supply of hot water, on the other hand, may be resolved by boosting the gas pressure in your water heater. In order to acquire immediate assistance with this hot water heater problem, call a professional technician in your region for aid with cleaning a burner orifice or regulating gas pressure.

The residences in your community can benefit from the services of our team of highly qualified professionals that provide water heater repair and water heater installation.

For all sorts of HVAC and plumbing projects, WM Henderson provides up-front pricing.

In addition, we promise your 100% pleasure with any assignment we perform on your behalf.

13 Common Water Heater Problems (Tricks to Fix)

Once your water tank is completely depleted, it should not take more than a few minutes to refill it with warm water. This is an indication of a clogged burner orifice in your hot water heater if it takes more than an hour to acquire warm water from it. Increasing the gas pressure in your water heater, on the other hand, can alleviate a lack of hot water in your house. In order to acquire immediate assistance with this hot water heater problem, contact a professional expert in your region who can assist you with cleaning a burner orifice or regulating gas pressure if necessary.

The residences in your community can benefit from the services of our team of highly qualified professionals that provide water heater repair and installation services.

For all sorts of HVAC and plumbing projects, WM Henderson provides transparent pricing.

Furthermore, we promise your 100% happiness with every assignment we finish.

Before you start

Water heaters are available in a variety of configurations, including those powered by gas and those driven by electricity. Electric water heaters are high-voltage appliances, which implies that you should use extreme caution when working with one of them. Before you begin working on the heater’s electrical components, be certain that the power has been switched off – this involves turning off the breaker for your heater at the service panel – before you begin.

Another precaution you should take is to use a voltage tester to check all of the wires before you start working with them. It is possible that failure to do so will result in significant harm or perhaps death.

1. No hot water

If you have no hot water, there are numerous probable causes, and you must work through each of them systematically in order to remove each one – and whether you have an electric or a gas-powered heater will determine how long it takes to do so. In the most obvious case, an electric heater is unable to function because no electricity is being supplied to the heater. Begin by looking for tripped circuit breakers and resetting them if they are still in place. If this has happened, there is a simple solution: simply switch the computer off and on again.

1. The next step is to verify that the high-temperature cutoff is operational.
2. Check to see whether the water is now able to warm up.
3. These should be tested and replaced if necessary.
4. Ensure that the gas valve is open if you are using a gas space heater or heater.
5. Check out numbers 10, 11, and 12 below to discover how to deal with these problems.

2. Not enough hot water or water not hot enough

When it comes to not having enough hot water, the explanation for this will vary depending on the sort of water heater you have. The problem with your heater if it has a tank might be as simple as the tank being insufficiently large for your purposes. If your tank is too small for the amount of people who will be showering, for example, you may run out of hot water before everyone has done their showering. If this is the case, you should consider investing in a new water heater that will match your demands and requirements.

Examine them and replace them if required.

Also keep in mind that, during the winter, you may need to raise the thermostat setting since the groundwater you are heating comes at a lower temperature than in the summer.

Check the manufacturer’s specifications to see how many fixtures the unit can handle.

Tankless heaters must also work harder in the winter, so if you are experiencing this issue during the colder months, it is possible that this is the cause of your problem. Upgrades to a more powerful unit may be necessary in your situation.

3. Water too hot

That the thermostat has been set too high is almost probably the cause of the problem, but it is a simple problem to fix. Simply reduce the temperature on your thermostat and you should be set to go. The temperature pressure valve should be checked if this does not solve the problem; if it is malfunctioning, the heater will not shut off when it reaches the proper temperature. This is a potentially dangerous condition, and you will need to replace the valve as soon as you possibly can.

4. Water takes too long to heat

Among the possible causes of water taking a long time to heat are malfunctioning heating elements, silt buildup on the components, and a malfunctioning thermostat, among others. Ensure that you check each of these items in turn and replace them as necessary. If you have a gas-powered model, the problem might be due to the burner – see12 for more details.

5. Low water pressure

Low water pressure is frequently caused by a lack of sufficient width in the pipes. Pipes in older homes are typically 12 inches in diameter, but pipes in newer homes are often 3 inches in diameter. If you live in an older house and are experiencing low water pressure, it is possible that the problem may not stem from the boiler at all. Instead, you may need to consider installing bigger pipes in your home to remedy the problem at hand.

6. Leaks

Leaks can occur as a consequence of loose connections, in which case you will need to tighten them using a wrench to prevent further damage. They can also emanate from valves, which can be changed if necessary. If the leak originates from the tank, the situation is more serious since the tank may be rusted. Corrosion will cause your tank to fail completely, and you will have to replace it.

7. Dirty water

If the color of your water begins to change to a nasty rust, you are most likely dealing with corrosion within your tank. The only way to fix this is to replace the tank entirely. However, it is possible that the problem is caused by a failing anode rod; thus, before replacing the tank, flush the tank and replace the anode rod to see whether this resolves the issue.

8. Smelly water

The presence of corrosion inside your tank is most likely the cause of your water turning a nasty rust hue. Replacement of the tank is the only option available. Although it is possible that the problem is caused by a failing anode rod, flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod first will determine whether or not the problem is resolved.

9. Tank makes noises

It is possible for water heaters to create noise for a variety of reasons. As the water heats up, rumbling, popping, and banging sounds are produced by a build-up of scale in the tank and on the heating components. This is the most prevalent cause of the noises. If this is the case, emptying and descaling the tank may be necessary. To avoid this problem from arising in the first place, you should totally flush the tank out every few months to keep it clean.

Depending on how serious the situation grows, you may be forced to replace the tank entirely. Because of the usual expansion and contraction caused by heat, water heaters and pipes might create noise from time to time. This is completely safe, but there isn’t much you can do to prevent the noise.

10. Pilot doesn’t light

There are a variety of reasons why you may be experiencing problems with your pilot light. If it won’t light in the first place, it might be because the pilot light orifice or tube is blocked – or it could simply be that the pilot light needs to be replaced. Another possibility is that the thermocouple is defective or has come away from its socket. It is also possible that there is air in the gas line or that the gas valve is malfunctioning.

11. Pilot lights and then goes out

If the light comes on but then goes out, the reasons for this might be the same. It is possible that the thermocouple has to be replaced, that you have a defective gas valve, or that the vent has been clogged.

12. Burner goes out

This is most likely a similar issue to the ones that have been reported with the pilot light. It might be caused by a clogged orifice, a fault with the thermocouple, or a clogged orifice and vent.

13. No hot water for bathtub

If you have no difficulties using your shower or operating a dishwasher or washing machine, but you are unable to receive hot water to fill a bath tub, the problem may be related to the type of heater you have in your home. If you have a tankless heater, this is most likely the source of the problem. Tankless water heaters heat water as it runs through them, providing you with an endless supply of hot water on demand at all times. However, if the water passes through the system too rapidly, it will not have enough time to heat up properly.

The water flow required to operate a bath, on the other hand, is significantly higher, and your tankless heater may simply not be able to keep up with it.

Identify the problem early

Often, the most important thing you can do is recognize a problem as soon as possible and take steps to resolve it as soon as possible. If you ignore the situation, it will only worsen and will almost certainly result in you having to pay more money in the future. And now that you’ve read this guide, you should have a solid sense of where to begin your search.

How to Troubleshoot Electric Water Heater Problems

In a house full of people, if you’ve ever been the last to shower, you’ll know what’s in store for you before you ever step into the bath: bone-chilling, teeth-chattering ice cold water. If you’re having water troubles, even when there aren’t a lot of people in the house, it’s time to take a closer look at your electric water heater. Symptoms of an electric water heater malfunction might include low water temperature, leaks, discoloration, odor, and noise, amongst other things. An illustrated procedure to guide you through the process of troubleshooting your water heater problems is provided below.

Before you start: turn off the power

First and first, safety must be prioritized.

First and foremost, make sure that the electric water heater is completely turned off before doing any troubleshooting. This can be accomplished by turning off the fuse or circuit breaker that is attached to the heating unit, as appropriate.

Water temperature problems

Many different sorts of electric water heater difficulties might result in problems with the temperature of the water. The symptoms might range from a lack of hot water to insufficient hot water to water that is too hot. Having no hot water can be caused by a number of factors, including a shortage of electricity, a malfunctioning electric thermostat, or a malfunctioning top electric heating element. To begin, rule out any potential power issues. To begin, reset any tripped circuit breakers and replace any blown fuses that have been discovered.

1. Replace the element if it is found to be defective after it has been tested.
2. It is possible that the problem is caused by an inadequately sized water heater, crossed hot and cold connections, or a broken heating element or thermostat when the water does not heat up sufficiently.
3. To rule out a crossed connection, switch off the water supply and turn on a hot water faucet; if water continues to flow, the problem is most likely a crossed connection.
4. Finally, if all of the elements are operational, check the higher thermostat first, followed by the lower thermostat, and replace if either of them is not operational.
5. Check to see that the upper and lower thermostats are set between 110 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit on both the higher and lower levels.

Leaks

Several factors contribute to water leaks, including a malfunctioning temperature and pressure relief valve (T P), high pressure, overheating, a jammed valve, a leak coming from an above or nearby plumbing connection, loose heating element bolts, a damaged gasket, or a leaky water storage tank. Check the T P valve by placing a bucket beneath the above pipe, opening the valve and flushing it clean; if it is still leaking, fix or replace it. Lowering the thermostat setting will therefore be necessary to alleviate excessive pressure or heat.

After that, inspect the heating element bolts and tighten them as necessary.

Finally, determine whether or not the storage tank is leaking.

Storage tanks can leak as a result of corrosion or other difficulties, such as faulty o-rings, that can occur. Keep a supply of spare o-rings from a reputable provider such as Apple Rubber on available in case you need to replace an o-ring.

Discoloration or odor

A malfunctioning temperature and pressure (T P) relief valve, excessive pressure, overheating, a jammed valve, a leak from an above or nearby plumbing connection, loose heating element bolts, a poor gasket, or a leaky water tank are all possible causes of water leaks. Check the T P valve by placing a bucket under the above pipe, opening the valve and flushing it clean; if it continues to leak, repair or replace it. Lowering the thermostat setting will therefore be necessary to alleviate excessive pressure or warmth.

Check the bolts that hold the heating element in place and tighten them as necessary.

The last step is checking to see if the storage tank has a leak.

Make sure you have a supply of spare o-rings on hand from a reputable provider such as Apple Rubber in case you need to replace one.

Noise

A low, rumbling sound may indicate boiling water, which is caused by overheating as a result of sediment accumulation. This can be resolved by flushing the water heater. When scales accumulate on electrical heating components, a high-pitched, whining noise can be heard in the background. First, flush the water heater to get rid of the problem. After that, flush out the scale from the water heater tank and heating components. Finally, use low-wattage heating elements with a larger surface area to improve the efficiency of heat transmission.

Refinance your home

Are you in need of money to cover unforeseen expenses? If you have equity in your house, you may use it to finance home upgrades, debt repayment, or the creation of a cash reserve for emergencies. Because interest rates are still at historically low levels, now may be an excellent time to consider refinancing your current mortgage with a new one that has a lower interest rate. **Not all borrowers will be eligible for this program. For additional information about our pricing and terms, please contact us.

Common Water Heater Problems & Troubleshooting

The 8th of May, 2019 We’ve all had that sinking feeling when you turn on a faucet or walk into the shower and the water that should be hot isn’t. Every time you think about replacing your water heater, the cost of doing so immediately comes to mind. However, a malfunction does not always imply that a replacement is required. The typical lifespan of a water heater is 10 to 12 years, depending on the model. The problem might be one of numerous possibilities and could be resolved with a water heater repair if your water heater is more recent than that.

Begin by reading the manufacturer’s instructions, which are usually placed on the water heater.

Then, have a look at the suggestions below to see if you can narrow down the possibilities. As a result, you will have a better understanding of the sort of work that will need to be done by a professional plumber.

Electric Water Heaters

• Power supply is required. Check your fuse box and the main switch on your water heater to make sure there hasn’t been a power outage. It is necessary to turn off the breaker fully before turning it back on again if the breaker has tripped (meaning it is no longer set to “on”). As long as it keeps tripping, contact an electrician and have them take a look
• Heating Elements Electric water heaters are comprised of two metal heating elements that are used to heat the water to the temperature that is needed. They might get rusted and cease to operate as a result of time. You may need to replace one or both heating elements if your water is consistently warm or if you have a brief burst of hot water followed by nothing but cold water for an extended period of time. If this is the case, you will need to have a professional come in and do the necessary repairs. Get in touch with our team right away to arrange a water heater repair with a certified plumber. Thermostat. A thermostat that is lukewarm or chilly might potentially be an indication of a broken thermostat. Whether the lack of hot water is caused by the thermostat or the heating components, a competent plumber can evaluate whether a repair or replacement is required.

Gas Water Heaters

• The pilot’s light. Sometimes the pilot light, which ignites the gas burner and heats the water, may go out. This is normal. This might be caused by a fault with the gas supply, by the thermocouple simply blowing out, or by a damaged thermocouple. It is possible to relight the water heater on your own, but it is critical that you follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations, which are listed on the water heater. If you are not confident in your ability to relight the pilot, contact a qualified expert to do so
• Thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether or not the pilot light is turned on or off. If the pilot light fails to illuminate, the thermocouple will cut off the gas flow to the burner. If the pilot light would not remain lit, it is possible that the thermocouple has to be cleaned or changed. Thermostat Control Valve for Natural Gas. It’s possible that the problem is with the gas thermostat control valve if the thermocouple and gas supply are both working properly but the pilot light won’t remain lit. When you are using hot water, the main burner flame will ignite in order to maintain the temperature you have selected. Most of the time, replacing a gas thermostat control valve is preferable to repairing it, and this should only be done by a licensed specialist. When the burner of an older gas water heater is turned on, gurgling and/or popping sounds may be heard. This is an indication that the water heater should be replaced

Electric and Gas Water Heaters

• Water with a rusty taste. If your water looks to be rusty, it might be the anode rod in your water heater, which generally works to attract metal in the water so that it attacks the rod rather than the tank. This is true for both electric and gas water heaters. It will erode as a result of natural processes over time. Replacement of the anode rod at the first sign of a problem is crucial in order to extend the life of your water heater’s tank. If the problem is not addressed, the complete water heater will begin to corrode, necessitating its replacement. Water with a foul odor. If your water has a bad, sulfur-like stench to it, which is often produced by the presence of bacteria in the tank, it may be an indication that the anode rod needs to be replaced, ideally with an aluminum rod rather than a magnesium rod. This is especially important if your water is obtained from a well or spring. To ensure that the anode rod is in excellent functioning condition, it is advised that it be professionally inspected every three to five years. Water is leaking. If water is leaking from the top of the water heater, it is most likely due to a malfunctioning or loose valve on the heater. If water is leaking from the bottom of the tank, it might be due to condensation, or it could be due to corrosion, in which case the tank would need to be replaced.

Drinking Water with Rust in It With both electric and gas water heaters, if your water seems rusty, it might be the anode rod, which generally functions to attract metal in the water, causing the rust to attack the rod rather than the tank and tank to rust. It will corrode as a result of normal wear and tear. A water heater’s life can be significantly extended by replacing the anode rod as soon as a problem is detected. Should this situation be allowed to continue, the complete water heater will begin to corrode and will need to be replaced.

A well is an especially good example of why this is so crucial to consider.

Water Is Seeping.

If water is seeping from the bottom of the tank, it may be due to condensation, or it may be due to corrosion, in which case the tank must be replaced.

Six Common Problems with Your Home Water Heater

Drinking Water That Is Rusty If your water looks to be rusty, it might be due to the anode rod in your water heater, which generally works to attract metal in the water so that it attacks the rod rather than the tank. It will naturally corrode over time. It is vital to replace the anode rod as soon as a problem is detected in order to maximize the life of your water heater. If left unattended, the entire water heater will begin to corrode, necessitating its complete replacement. Water that smells bad.

This is an indication that the anode rod needs to be changed, ideally with an aluminum rod rather than a magnesium rod.

Having a professional evaluate the anode rod every three to five years will help guarantee that it is in peak operating condition.

If water is leaking from the top of the water heater, it is most likely due to a malfunctioning or loose valve on the tank.

Water Leaks

Water leaks are one of the most common types of water heater problems that you’ll come across. Any water heater will ultimately begin to leak due to the fact that water will corrode the tank and cause microscopic cracks or fractures over time. However, this is not necessarily an indication that your tank is the source of the leak. This might indicate that your water connections are loose if the leak appears to be coming from the very top of your tank. Ensure that your cold water inlet pipes and hot water outlet pipes are both securely linked and that none of the pipes are rattling or dangling in any way.

If your overflow pipe or pressure relief valve is leaking, you might potentially have water leaking from them. As a result, if you see this, it might be an indication of tank corrosion, and you should get your water heater replaced immediately.

No Hot Water

Is your tank brimming with water, yet none of it appears to be warm? It’s possible that there’s a problem with your heat source. If you have an electric water heater, this suggests that your heating elements may have failed or that the electrical connection between them may have been compromised. This might be caused by a malfunctioning pilot light or a poor gas hookup in a gas water heater. A problem with your burner as a whole might be the cause of the inability to ignite the gas even when the pilot light is illuminated.

Assuming this is the case, simply reset the device and your water heater should ignite without difficulty.

Strange Smelling Hot Water

A growth of bacteria in the tank of your hot water heater may cause a weird scent to emanate when you turn on the hot water. Increase the temperature in the tank to around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and any bacteria in the tank should die as a result of the increased heat. Make careful, however, that you do not use your hot water while operating this service, since hot water can cause significant burn damage if it comes into contact with naked flesh. It may be necessary to have your tank cleaned with a chlorine bleach solution.

Tank Takes Ages to Reheat

If it appears that your water heater is taking an excessive amount of time to reheat, you could be experiencing one of a number of other issues. It’s possible that your thermostat is set too low, which implies that your burner isn’t producing enough energy to heat your water at a fast enough rate. It’s also possible that you have an issue with your gas connection, such as low gas pressure, a clogged vent flue, or a clogged burner orifice, which is preventing appropriate gas flow from occurring.

However, in many circumstances, a water heater requiring an excessive amount of time to reheat is simply due to the fact that the water heater does not have enough capacity to adequately service a residence.

This gives the impression that your water heater never heats up again, while in reality it just hasn’t had enough time to do so.

Low Hot Water Pressure

The smaller, 12-inch plumbing that was the architectural norm for decades is the most significant source of water pressure reduction in older homes. Modern homes are equipped with bigger 34″ plumbing that can handle higher water flow, but in older homes, the only option to resolve this issue is with a complete repiping project. Fortunately, if you have contemporary plumbing in your house, it may be possible to enhance your water pressure by making sure that the aerators in your sink aren’t blocked with debris (which they do over time).

Also, double-check your water inlet valve to ensure that it hasn’t been mistakenly left partially closed by mistake.

Water Too Hot or Too Cold

Do you have a water heater that has variable water temperatures? Is the water either too hot or not hot enough, no matter how you alter the temperature on your water heater? This is a telltale sign that your thermostat is malfunctioning. It is possible that your thermocouple may need to be changed or cleaned in order for it to begin sensing temperatures properly again. Water that is too cold, on the other hand, may be an indication of a problem with the gas flow. Having a problem with your water heater?

Moe Plumbing has the expertise to get the job done well.