The water heater is one of the most crucial parts of a home’s residential plumbing system. Without it, no fixtures can pump out the hot water necessary for bathing and cleaning. So it’s understandable why people become so concerned when theirs starts malfunctioning. Before considering a new water heater installation, it’s helpful to understand what’s causing the issues.

5 Common Problems With Water Heaters

1. No Hot Water

When a water heater doesn’t provide hot water, it may be filled with sediment and needs to be flushed. If it’s been flushed recently and still isn’t supplying enough hot water, consider the usage. The tank can only hold so much hot water, so if you’re using too much at once, you might need a larger water heater installation.

2. Temperature Is Too Hot or Cold

When the water is never at the right temperature, the thermostat either isn’t set correctly or is malfunctioning. Check that it’s set to the desired temperature, and if you continue experiencing issues, try replacing it.

If that doesn’t work, have a professional drain the water tank to remove sediment preventing proper heating, then clean it and refill it.

3. Discolored Water

If the heater is made of metal and you notice rust-colored water, then the anode rod has failed and the tank is corroding. If you catch the problem in time, you can replace the rod rather than the entire tank.

4. Leaking Tank

A water heater often leaks because of loose or poorly installed plumbing connections. Check that the pipes and valves are properly situated and fully tightened.

If the leak is larger, it could be the result of a corroded tank. This is much more serious and typically requires a complete replacement.

5. Slow to Heat

The appliance takes a certain amount of time to heat the tank, but if that time becomes excessive, you likely have a faulty heating element. This problem usually occurs suddenly when the mechanism breaks down. 

If the issue is persistent, the tank either doesn’t have the right amount of insulation, or it may be too far from the fixtures you use the most.

If you’re experiencing issues with your water heater, contact the plumbing experts at A-1 Budget Plumbing in Kailua, HI. For nearly 35 years, their highly trained team of plumbers has helped local homeowners keep systems operating efficiently. They’ll perform a thorough inspection to diagnose the issue and provide fast and reliable repairs to ensure your entire home has ample amounts of hot water. Schedule an appointment by calling (808) 526-3747, or learn more about their services online.