The signs of a faltering water heater can be easy to dismiss. The tank will give off small, subtle indications that it’s time for repairs, and if you miss or ignore them, you may find yourself in a cold shower. To prevent a sudden breakdown, here are some of the top indications you need water heater repairs.

How to Tell If Your Water Heater Needs to Be Repaired

1. Noises

Loud cracking, banging, or popping signify a mineral buildup. Water bubbles when it boils. The bubbles become trapped under minerals, like calcium or magnesium, creating sounds as they force their way through the sediment. A professional can quickly perform water heater repairs by draining the tank, preventing the appliance from shutting down completely.

2. Inconsistent Temperature

If you have hot water during a shower, but it quickly fades or cools, your tank may have a sediment buildup. Sediment sinks to the bottom of water heaters and gets caught on the equipment. The machine will need to work harder to compensate for the sediment coating, causing sporadic temperature changes in the water.

3. Metallic Tasting Water

If your hot water has a metallic taste, it’s likely due to corrosion in the heater. Corrosion is the result of excessive sediment buildup, which bonds to the bottom of the tank and creates rust. Over time, the rust will eat through the bottom of the tank, causing complete failure.

4. Leaking

Leaking from water heaters is typically caused by sediment corrosion in the tank. If the leak isn’t coming from the valve, the water is likely seeping out of the bottom of the tank. This type of leak means that sediment rusted the heater’s base, requiring a full replacement.

 

If you need water heater repairs, contact the skilled team at Paradise Plumbing in Haleiwa, HI. These licensed contractors have provided Oahu homeowners with efficient and affordable plumbing repairs for over 15 years. Their team will evaluate your water heater, provide a quote, and address the issue quickly so that your household can return to normal. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 368-1473 to schedule an appointment.