Homeowners depend on water heaters every single day. Whether it’s for hot showers, doing dishes, or washing clothes, this essential appliance keeps things running smoothly. But when something starts to go wrong, it’s not always clear when to call in the professionals.
Ignoring early warning signs can turn minor issues into costly repairs or even full replacements. Plumbing problems often show up without warnings. In this blog, we will discuss 4 signs that it’s time to hire plumbing services for water heaters. Understanding these signs can help you act timely.
1.Inconsistent Water Temperature
One of the first clues something is wrong with your water heaters is when the water temperature starts to vary. One day, you might have steaming hot water. Next, it’s completely cold. This change can happen gradually or all at once, but it signals that your heater isn’t working properly.
When heating elements start to get damaged, they can’t keep up with water temperature demands. Sediment can also build up inside the tank, covering the heating element and reducing its ability to transfer heat. This leads to uneven heating, where hot and cold water mix unpredictably.
If your water goes hot and cold during a single shower, that’s a problem worth looking into. If you’re noticing these changes often, it’s time to call a licensed plumber.
2.Strange Noises from the Water Heater
A water heater is typically quiet when it’s working properly. If you start hearing loud cracking, or popping noises, something’s definitely wrong. These sounds may come from sediment that has built up inside the tank. When the heating element turns on, it burns that sediment, causing snapping or popping sounds.
Ignoring noises in your water heaters allows the damage to continue. Calling in plumbing services when the noises start is a smart move. A plumber can inspect the tank, remove the sediment, and restore efficiency without you needing to replace the entire system.
3.Rusty or Discolored Water
When water coming out of your tap is tinted orange, brown, or reddish, you’re likely dealing with rust. This could come from old pipes, but if the issue only happens when you turn on hot water, the problem is inside your water heater.
Rust in the tank is a warning sign that corrosion has started, and it’s only a matter of time before the tank fails. Water heaters are designed with an internal rod that protects the tank from rust. Over time, this rod wears out causing the tank itself to start to corrode.
If you notice any changes in the color of your hot water, it’s essential to act immediately and call a plumbing service.
4.Reduced Hot Water Pressure
Good water pressure is what most people take for granted until it starts to fade. If you’re finding that the pressure in your hot water tap is weaker than the cold, that’s a sign something is wrong inside your water heater system.
Mineral deposits and sediment can clog the pipes that deliver hot water, narrowing the flow and making your showers slow. This issue is especially common in areas with hard water.
Low hot water pressure often signals internal damage that will get worse if not addressed. A licensed plumbing professional can remove buildup, and check for any broken valves or clogged lines.