Common Water Heater Issues and How to Prevent Them

Water heaters are indispensable for modern comfort, providing hot water for everything from daily showers to washing dishes. However, like any appliance, they can develop issues over time. Understanding these common problems and knowing how to prevent them can save you from inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs. As a leading water heater company in Lakeway, we’re here to guide you through the most frequent water heater issues and offer expert prevention tips.

1. Insufficient Hot Water

One of the most common complaints is running out of hot water too quickly. This can be caused by a water heater that is too small for your household, sediment buildup in the tank, or malfunctioning heating elements.

Prevention Tips:

Choose the correct size of water heater for your family’s needs with the help of a professional.
Flush the tank annually to remove sediment that can build up and reduce efficiency.
Check and replace heating elements as needed to ensure optimal performance.

2. Water Temperature Issues

If your water is too hot or not hot enough, the thermostat may not be set correctly, or it may be faulty.

Prevention Tips:

Regularly check the thermostat setting to ensure it’s at an optimal level, typically around 120°F.
Test the thermostat’s accuracy and replace it if it fails to control the temperature properly.

3. Leaking Water Heater

Leaks can occur due to a variety of reasons such as a corroded tank, loose connections, or a faulty pressure relief valve.

Prevention Tips:

Inspect your water heater regularly for signs of moisture or small leaks.
Ensure all connections are tightened and in good condition.
Replace the pressure relief valve if it shows signs of malfunction or leakage.

4. Discolored Water

Rusty or discolored water can indicate corrosion inside your water heater, or it could be due to galvanized piping in your home.

Prevention Tips:

Install a whole-house water filter to protect against pipe corrosion.
Consider replacing an aging water heater if it starts to produce discolored water.
Regularly check the anode rod, which protects the tank from rust, and replace it every few years.

5. Unusual Noises

Popping, banging, or rumbling sounds can be caused by the buildup of sediment in the tank.

Prevention Tips:

Flush the tank regularly to prevent sediment buildup.
Check for signs of scaling on the heating elements and clean or replace them as necessary.

6. Foul Smelling Water

Water that smells bad can be due to bacteria buildup in the tank, especially if the water heater is set at too low a temperature.

Prevention Tips:

Flush the tank with a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria.
If the smell persists, consult with a professional from a reputable water heater company in Lakeway.

7. High Energy Bills

An inefficient water heater can lead to higher than necessary energy bills.

Prevention Tips:

Ensure your water heater has adequate insulation (a water heater blanket can help).
Consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model if your current unit is old and less efficient.

Choosing the Right Water Heater Company in Lakeway

When facing any of these issues, choosing the right professionals for repairs and maintenance is crucial. A reputable water heater company in Lakeway, like Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain, can provide the necessary expertise and service to ensure your water heater operates efficiently and reliably. Here’s what to look for:

Experience and Expertise: Choose a company with a proven track record in water heater maintenance and repair.
Licenses and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and insured to protect your home and the workers.
Customer Reviews and Feedback: Read customer reviews to gauge the quality of service and customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance is key to preventing the most common water heater problems. By understanding what can go wrong and taking proactive steps, you can extend the life of your water heater and ensure it runs smoothly. Should you encounter issues beyond basic maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact your local water heater company in Lakeway for professional help.

At Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain, we are committed to providing top-notch service to keep your water heater in peak condition. Contact us today for all your water heater needs or call us at 512-266-3566.