Many homeowners don’t have a lot of experience with their water heaters. When this device starts malfunctioning, you may not know whether it’s a small problem or if you should call a water heater repair specialist. Here are a few common problems you may experience and how to deal with them before a professional arrives.

A Guide to Household Water Heater Problems

1. No Hot Water

Make sure your circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, as this cuts off power to the water heater. If this isn’t the problem, check the pilot light. You can reignite an extinguished light by turning the knob and holding it down until gas flows through the system; then, use the heater’s pezo  igniter button to fire the burners. There should be a sight glass to visually confirm that the burners are lit. Call a water heater repair specialist if the problem persists, as this typically indicates an issue with the heating element or gas controller.

2. Leaks

You should address this problem immediately because a leak can worsen, causing significant water damage to the surrounding area. This problem is usually caused by failing pipes, loose connections for the plumbing or elements, all of which can be repaired if the leak is nominal. If the tank vessel is compromised then a replacement of the heater will be needed.

3. Smelly Water

Foul water is typically caused by bacteria in the tank. This issue is more common if your home uses well water. To address the problem, flush the tank and fill it with a water and hydrogen peroxide mixture. Let the solution sit for two hours before flushing it again with clean water. If this doesn’t remove the odor, you may need to call a professional to change the tank’s anode rod.

If your appliance is experiencing any of these issues, turn to the certified and licensed team at Waialae Plumbing & Construction in Honolulu, HI. These professionals have provided Oahu homeowners with affordable water heater repairs since 1994. During the appointment, they’ll assess your heater to determine the issue, then make any necessary repairs and adjustments or perform a complete replacement. To get more information about their services, visit the website or call (808) 735-8595.