Although people rely on their hot water heaters for bathing, cooking, and cleaning, they don’t always know how to tell when there’s a problem with the system. Sometimes, they only discover the issue when they end up with a cold shower one morning. Fortunately, there are a few early warning signs that let you know when you need professional plumbing repairs.

3 Signs There’s a Problem With Your Water Heater

1. Unusual Noises or Rumbling

As water heaters age, they begin collecting sediment in the bottom on the tank. As this buildup hardens, it can cause the system to rattle when it starts up, you may see sediment come out of the faucets, and may clog the faucet filters. Having sediment doesn’t mean the tank needs to be replaced, but it can have adverse effects on the heater’s performance. The unit will need to use more energy to reach your desired temperature, and the weight of the buildup can lead to cracks and leaks. 

2. Rust in the Water

Turning on a faucet to see rusty water pouring out can be alarming, and should be taken seriously as a possible sign of a failing hot water heater. If you see this problem, contacting a plumbing repair specialist can help determine whether it is related to the water heater and/or the pipes. You can also perform a basic check yourself by draining a few gallons of water from the tank. If you find there is a significant amount of sediment and rusty colored water coming out of the tank, it’s time to schedule a service call to get it checked.

3. Pooling Around the Tank

Even if the system operates quietly, and the water looks normal coming out of the faucet, there may still be a problem with your hot water heater. The tank expands during the warming process and contracts when the system cycles off, which can result in tiny cracks that leak. As a result, you may find puddles at the base of the tank. Have the unit inspected for physical damage and to rule out whether the leak is due to a loose connection with a pipe. 

Avoid the risk of waking up to a cold shower by having Always On Call Mountain Mechanical inspect your hot water heater for performance and structural issues. These Anchorage, AK, contractors offer an array of heating and plumbing services including hot water heater repairs and replacements. Their 24-hour emergency service means you never have to deal with unpleasant surprises. For more information, call (907) 344-0700 or visit their website today.