Dealing with a damaged water heater can be problematic. In more severe cases, the water will be completely cold—and at that point, you know that it’s time to contact a plumber. But in other instances, you may be able to resolve the problem with water heater repairs. What’s the best way to tell? Here are five signs that it’s time to get in touch with an expert.

How to Tell if You Need to Schedule Water Heater Repairs

1. The Water Temperature Varies

Lukewarm water is sometimes the first sign that there’s a problem brewing in the water heater. You may notice that it seems just slightly less warm than you’d prefer, or that it never quite reaches a comfortable point. Your plumber will inspect the heating elements in the system to determine if there’s any buildup. Sometimes removing the debris will resolve the problem, but if the heater is especially old, then the heating elements may require complete replacement.

2. The Pressure Is Weak

Reduced water pressure can also be indicative of a need for water heater repairs. The very same buildup that affects the temperature can also prevent the water from flowing freely through the pipes. The result is reduced pressure throughout the house.

3. The System Makes Noises

Most water heaters make quite loud, disturbing noises when there’s something wrong. You might notice clanging, cracking, or popping sounds. Those are all likely indications that the unit is overheating in its efforts to keep the water supply hot. This may be due to mineral buildup inside the tank, which a plumber can detect. If this is the case, flushing and cleaning the system may resolve the concern.

4. The Water Tastes Bad

Water that tastes different is nearly always suggestive of corrosion somewhere in the plumbing fixtures. When the hot water has a strange aroma and a metallic taste, you can be confident that you need to schedule water heater repairs. Rust can quickly impact the integrity of the heater and lead to eventual failure—at which point you’ll need to consider a replacement instead.

5. The Heater Is Leaking

Unless you check on the water heater every day, chances are you won’t be aware of a leak until it’s too late. If you’ve noticed a few other symptoms that indicate a possible problem, it’s worth taking a peek at the surface around the heater. If it’s damp or there’s clearly pooling water, contact a plumber immediately.

When you need to schedule water heater repair service, you can trust the experts at Mike Hensley Plumbing and Electric Inc. to come through for you. Based in Cincinnati, OH, these skilled plumbers are available to assist at any hour of the day. They understand that emergencies happen, and that plumbing repairs can’t always wait. If you’re worried about the quality of your home’s water supply, give them a call today. They’ll check on the condition of the water heater and determine if a repair or a replacement may be the better option. Visit their website to learn more about their commitment to excellence, or call them at (513) 574-8553 to schedule your appointment.