Your water heater may not be as glamorous as your stainless steel, energy-efficient kitchen appliances, but it is still a major player in terms of a comfortable home. Water heaters display numerous symptoms when they require repairs or have reached the end of their basement tenure. Learn about some of the most common water heater repair problems to keep this essential appliance in good condition for years.

Top 5 Most Common Water Heater Issues

1. Lack of Hot Water

The issue most people associate with water heater repair is a lack of hot water. No hot water may be as simple as a tripped circuit breaker, so check that first. If the breaker is intact, one of the heating elements has likely burned out and requires replacement.

2. Rumbling Noises

A rumbling noise coming from your water heater tells you sediment has hardened and started rattling around the tank. Draining the appliance on a semi- or annual basis prevents collected sediment from forming hard chunks that damage your tank prematurely.

3. Rusty or Odorous Water

Rusty, odorous water means the tank’s anode, or corroding, rod no longer does its job. The rod keeps the water clear and rust-free by attracting corrosive elements; however, it does not last as long as your heater. Get it replaced as soon as possible to keep your water clear and fresh.

4. Pooling Around the Tank

Tank leaks occur on both the top and bottom of your water heater, and are often due to a valve issue such as a loose drain valve or a damaged pressure valve. Depending on the age of your water heater and the frequency of leaks and other issues, it may be best to replace the appliance instead of enlisting water heater repair services.

5. Water Is Too Hot

Excessively hot water usually means the thermostat was set too high. If a quick adjustment does not solve the problem, the thermostat probably needs replacing. Check your heating elements before replacing the thermostat to ensure the correct diagnosis.

Maintain your water heater with help from the friendly team at Disponette Service Co., the plumbing, heating, and HVAC company serving Lexington, KY. A family-owned business for over 40 years, this company offers the comprehensive water heater repair services you need to prevent premature replacements. Call (859) 255-7157 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website for service details. Follow the company on Twitter for more great tips.