Common Water Heater Problems
Phoenix may have a sunny climate, but water heater issues here can be just as troublesome as anywhere else. The following problems are all common signs that your water heater needs repair:
Inadequate Hot Water
If you’re frequently facing a shortage of hot water, it’s possible your water heater isn’t keeping pace with the needs of your Phoenix home or business. Upgrading to a larger or more energy-efficient model might be the solution you need for reliable hot water. On the other hand, if the shortfall in hot water is a new issue, the culprit could be the thermostat or the heating elements within your water heater’s tank.
Water Leaks
Leaks in water heaters can stem from various issues, such as wear and tear on plumbing pipes or fittings that have become loose. A leak in the tank itself, by contrast, usually requires a full water heater replacement. Regardless of the leak’s source, you’ll need the assistance of a skilled professional plumber to help you find and correct the problem.
Strange Noises and Vibrations
When a water heater starts to make knocking or rattling noises, it’s often a sign that sediment has accumulated inside the tank. These sounds typically arise when the water heater’s heating element agitates the sediment. The solution is to connect the water heater to a hose, then drain and flush it — a task that’s almost always best handled by an experienced plumber.
Fluctuating Water Temperatures
Consistent hot water temperature is a hallmark of a well-functioning water heater. If your water temperature varies unexpectedly, it could be signaling issues such as hidden leaks or a malfunctioning thermostat. The skilled professional plumbers at Roto-Rooter of Phoenix offer water heater inspection and maintenance services that will help you pin down the cause of your fluctuating water temperatures and prevent further problems.
Faulty Gas Pilot Light
If your gas water heater isn't providing hot water, the pilot light may be failing to ignite the gas. The solution is a detailed inspection of the pilot light mechanism by a professional, including the thermocouple and any sensors involved. A faulty pilot light can also indicate more widespread trouble with your gas system, so it’s crucial to get the problem resolved ASAP.
Water Heater Lifespan
Water heaters typically have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years, but with diligent maintenance, they can serve you well for up to 20 years. Promptly tackling any mechanical problems is crucial for extending the life of your unit, so it’s worth learning the common plumbing issues of either traditional or tankless water heaters in Phoenix (depending on which you have).
Roto-Rooter’s Water Heater Repair Services in Phoenix
A small leak might not seem like much, but it could be a symptom of a larger issue within your water heater. It's crucial to get a professional from Roto-Rooter Phoenix to take a look. Failing to address water heater problems promptly can result in hot water that goes out at the worst possible time, as well as potentially shortening your unit's life. With the right tools and knowledge, Roto-Rooter in Phoenix can quickly identify and resolve these issues.
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Tips for Water Heater Maintenance
Keeping your water heater in good working order is easier when you follow some critical tips, including:
Conduct Regular Inspection
Examine your water heater regularly for any signs of leaks, unusual noises, or changes in temperature controls. Catching these problems early is a big factor in preventing them from escalating into something more costly and damaging.
Flush the Tank Once a Year
With Phoenix’s mineral-rich hard water, it’s common for sediment to build up in water heater tanks. For those with traditional tank heaters, it’s crucial to have a yearly tank flush. The process involves draining your water heater and attaching a hose — so although it may be possible to handle it yourself, many home and business owners prefer to trust the pros at Roto-Rooter.
Insulate Your Water Heater
Even in Phoenix’s sunny climate, lower temperatures can cause your older water heater to lose efficiency in the colder months. Adding a water heater blanket and placing your water heater in an insulated area can help your unit stay in good order even when the temperature drops. Recent federal regulations ordered new water heaters to be better insulated and energy efficient, so a new water heater should not require an insulation blanket, but its connection pipe would benefit from foam insulation sleeves. Roto-Rooter’s experts can help you find the best location and insulation solution for your water heater.
Pay Attention to the Anode Rod
The anode rod in your water heater (also known as a “sacrifice rod”) acts as a protective barrier, drawing corrosion to itself and away from your heater's tank. When an anode rod reaches 50 percent capacity or lower, it’s important to get it replaced soon to keep your tank rust-free.
Lower Your Water Temperature
Water heaters are often set to higher temperatures than necessary. Reducing the temperature to approximately 120ºF can help you save energy, reduce wear and tear, and lower the chance of someone in your household accidentally injuring themselves with water that’s too hot.
Schedule Regular Professional Inspections
Although keeping an eye on your water heater yourself is beneficial, insight from a professional can make all the difference. Roto-Rooter’s skilled plumbers are always available for professional maintenance and emergency repairs, and they have years of experience to ensure that we can pinpoint your plumbing problems.