There’s nothing quite like the unpleasant surprise of cold water hitting your skin during your morning shower or when you’re washing your face. This type of situation can usually be attributed to a problem with the water heater. There are several reasons why issues might arise, and they’re typically best left to a plumbing service provider to resolve. Here’s how to troubleshoot three common concerns.

Your Guide to Common Hot Water Heater Problems

1. Lack of Hot Water

A complete lack of heat usually indicates that the hot water heater’s primary source of energy is faulty. If the heater is electric, the fix might be as simple as flipping the circuit breaker in the unlikely event that it tripped. But in most cases, it’s a little bit more complex and may require the assistance of a plumbing service provider. They’ll determine whether the thermostat is faulty or if another component is damaged. If you have a gas heater, check to see if the pilot light is lit or not. A burned out light indicates a defective thermocouple.

2. Odd Water Heater Noises

It’s disturbing to discover that your hot water heater is making strange noises. These can range from light thumps to loud pops to gurgling sounds. Sometimes they’re attributable to metal parts expanding and contracting, but the issue may also be due to a buildup of mineral scale in the tank. These can affect the unit’s efficiency and prevent it from heating water regularly. One way to resolve this issue is to drain and flush the tank, but sometimes the noises indicate that the buildup has been there for quite some time. In most cases, it’s best to have a plumbing professional check it for you.

3. Problems with Water Quality

Just as alarming is the discovery that your hot water has a strong, sulfuric odor or looks suspiciously brownish or rusty in color. Your plumbing service provider can determine if the issue is due to mineral buildup in the water, in which case they may suggest installing a water softener to reduce their content. If the water is discolored, it may be due to internal corrosion, either on the tank or the anode rod. Severe rusting may require complete heater replacement, but in some cases, your plumber might simply replace the anode rod.

Since 1900, the professionals at Niebuhr Plumbing & Heating have proudly served homeowners throughout La Crosse, WI. The plumbing service provider is proud to offer extensive services, including repairs, water heater maintenance, sewer cleaning, and water softener installation. They’ll assess the scope of the problem and provide a viable solution so that you can enjoy hot showers again. Visit them online to learn more, or give them a call at (608) 782-1700 to speak with a friendly member of the team today.