You depend on your water heater for hot water to wash dishes, take showers, clean laundry, and complete other household tasks. Thus, when it's acting up, it's important that you have it looked at immediately. To help you identify a problem before it becomes an emergency, below are some key signs you need timely water heater repair.

Top Indications You Need Water Heater Repair

1. Lukewarm Water

If the tap doesn't produce the hot water you expect, but rather a stream of room temperature—or even cold—water, this could mean sediment on the floor of the tank is preventing the burner from heating properly. However, if it's flat-out cold, it likely means your heating element is fried.

2. Pooling Water

If your tank is leaking and water has puddled around the base, contact a water heater repair technician immediately. Leaks often indicate the tank liner has corroded through, and it is only a matter of time before the fault gives way entirely. If you delay, you may face a flood of 40 gallons or more spilling from your tank into your basement or utility room. In addition to the repair costs, you'll also face the cost of water damage to carpeting, furniture, drywall, or whatever else in reach of the flood.

3. Unusual Noises

If your water heater is making groaning, rumbling, or popping noises, the cause is likely a layer of sediment on the floor of the tank above the heating element. The noises occur as air bubbles force their way past the sediment. You can often solve this issue by draining a few gallons of water—along with the sediment—from the tap at the bottom of the tank. If the noises persist after that, contact a plumbing and HVAC contractor.

When you need emergency water heater repair, contact Oehl Plumbing, Heating, Electric & Air Conditioning in Amana, IA. They've been successfully serving the region, including North Liberty, Coralville, and Iowa City, for more than 70 years. In addition to plumbing repairs, they also provide HVAC contractor and residential electrician services. Visit their website to submit an information request form; or, call (319) 622-3636 to schedule services.