How To Tell If You Need Water Heater Repairs
Oh, the frustration when the water heater tank runs out of hot water! Worse yet, when it doesn't produce any at all. Taking a cold shower isn't fun, so wouldn't it be nice to ensure you always have hot water on hand?
Tucson Water heaters are machines that need attention once in a while. Yes, they are quiet and don't cause much trouble -but the problems arise when they are neglected. Then things like icy cold showers will draw our attention back to this very important equipment.
Water heaters need repairs and servicing, but how do you know if it's time? Here is a little information from Water Heater Heroes that can help answer this question.
Water Heater Runs Out Of Hot Water
If your water heater runs out of hot water on you, there could be a number of problems going on. You may need more than water heater repairs, you could need a replacement. However, it's often something simple like a heating element that burned out. The other possibility is that your water heater isn't big enough or the temperature is set too low.
When your water heater was installed, the plumber had to determine what size would be needed for the household with that square footage. However, families come in all sizes, so yours may just not be big enough for everyone living in the home or your lifestyle. Call your local plumber for water heater repairs so they fix it if necessary or advise you to upgrade.
Floating Sediments In The Hot Water
You probably don't often get hot water directly out of the tap to fill a glass since it's mostly used for bathing and cleaning. So get a clear glass and run your hot water for a minute before collecting it in the glass. Take a look at the water to see if there is anything floating in it.
Sediments in the water get larger and larger until you notice them. A water heater tank will continually heat the water, so sediments tend to settle in the bottom. The level of buildup can get so high within a water heater tank that they literally cover the bottom heating element. The first sign of trouble may be when you see things floating in your water, so be sure to look for it once in a while.
Call your Tucson plumber for water heater repairs if you do see sediments or have chalk all over your dishes from the dishwasher. This is scale buildup that needs to be removed from the water heater tank. It's not healthy to ingest or bathe in.
If there is a significant problem with hard water which causes scale, you'll also want to consider installing a water softener for the whole house. This greatly improves the function of your water heater and makes your entire plumbing system last much longer because scale is corrosive.
Gas Pilot Light Flame Is Not Blue
If you have a gas water heater, you can pay attention to the color of the pilot light flame. You should also keep an eye on the gas lines and connections so you can notice any change.
The water heater pilot light should always be blue. If it changes to yellow, the gas line leading to the pilot light isn't getting enough oxygen. It could be an air intake valve that needs cleaning, a crimp in the gas line, or a clog inside. This issue can be fixed but you'll need to call a plumber for water heater repairs. Please don't work on gas lines yourself!
It's also important to call in a plumber to test the gas lines for leaks a couple of times per year. Call and ask about water heater maintenance service so you can ensure there's never a problem. Gas leaks are dangerous, so don't neglect service on your gas appliances.
