Reasons Why Your Water Heater Might Need a Switch

Every owner of a water heater wants to get the most out of this appliance. Unfortunately, water heaters are prone to lose its ability to produce as much hot water as it used to in the beginning. So how do you know if the water heater is losing its functionality?

Most water heaters come with a life expectancy of anywhere between 5 years to 20 years. This number will vary depending on a wide variety of factors, such as price, quality, brand and level of maintenance.

Those who don’t know about water heaters and the ways to maintain them, may be surprised to find out the hot water is going cold long before the expiry date. To sit back and wait for the appliance to give away is to never buy the product in the first place.

You as the owner must take a look at what went wrong when this happens. The best option is to call a plumber to correct the issue.

Is it Possible That I May Need a New One?

Nevertheless, your old water heater is not making as much hot water as it used to for the following reasons. If your’s is a water heater that is more than 10 years old, it is quite possible that there are leaks around the base of the tank. In this case, most plumbers will suggest you to replace the unit. In any case, it is the plumber’s responsibility to make sure that there is no electrical problem associated with the heater, such as tripped breaker or a blown fuse.

Perhaps the most common reason for the hot water going cold is a defective heating element, rusting parts or a faulty thermostat. When this happens, the plumber will make sure that the thermostat is working by resetting it. Then he or she will flush the heater in order to remove sediment inside the tank.

If necessary, the water pipes will be properly insulated and the heating element or thermostat replaced. If it is a gas water heater, the plumber will make sure that the gas supply is intact and the pilot light is lit.

Conclusion

Again, the plumber will flush the water heater to remove sediment, insulate the pipes and replace thermocouples or clean the gas burner. Some common problems found in home or business water heaters can be corrected with possible solutions.

A water heater producing sizzling noise is an indication that the tank needs to be flushed off the sediment. A vinegar solution can be used to scrape the collected scale. If the pressure-relief valve is leaking, the plumber will replace the valve. A leaking water supply pipes need to be tightened or replaced as well.

Contemplating whether to get a new water heater in your Downers Grove home? Call and ask Jim Wagner at (630) 577-9241, and get information from the professionals.