What are The Signs of a Failing Hot Water Heater?
But before you start panicking about what a replacement might cost, take a deep breath and see if your hot water heater is actually failing, acting up, or just needs some heating maintenance Tulsa OK.
Here are six (6) signs that indicate your hot water heater might be on its last legs:
It's Making Unusual Noises
If your hot water heater starts making any kind of unusual noise—including popping, hissing, or rumbling—it's time to call in a professional. These sounds could be an indication that sediment has built up inside the tank and is starting to harden, which will eventually cause your unit to fail.
The Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
Do you find yourself having to relight the pilot light on your water heater frequently? If the pilot light keeps going out, there could be a problem with the thermocouple (the sensor that tells the gas valve when to open and close).
Or, there might be too much draft in the area where the hot water heater is located, which is causing the pilot light to blow out. Either way, you'll need to have a professional take a look.
Sweating or Moisture Around the Tank
If you start noticing condensation or "sweating" around your hot water heater, it's not because it's nervous about being replaced. This happens when humid air hits a cold surface and turns into water droplets.
While this isn't necessarily an indication that your appliance is on its last legs, it could mean there's insufficient insulation around the tank—which means your unit is working harder (and using more energy) than it needs to.
You might be able to solve this problem by simply wrapping the tank in an insulating blanket (you can find these at most hardware stores). But if that doesn't work, you'll need to call in a pro who can properly assess the situation.
There's Water Around Your Hot Water Heater
Same thing when you see a puddle of water around your hot water heater. The first thing you should do is check the temperature and pressure relief valve (this is usually located on the side of the unit).
If this valve is leaking, simply tighten the packing nut until the leak stops. However, if this doesn't solve the problem, there could be a crack in your tank—which means it's time for a replacement.
Your Home Isn't Getting as Much Hot Water as It Used To
Probably there’s not enough hot water in your home—and the culprit could be a faulty water heater. Sediment build-up can cause this problem (see #1), but so can corrosion on the inside of your tank. In either case, you'll need professional help to get things back up and running again.
The Hot Water from Your Tap Looks Rusty
Rusty-looking water starts coming out of your faucets, it means there's corrosion somewhere in your system—which could be coming from your piping or from inside your hot water heater itself. This problem won't go away on its own, so you'll need professional help to diagnose and fix it.
Hot water heaters are pretty low-maintenance appliances...until they're not. If you notice any of these signs happening with yours, don't ignore them! Call in a professional who can help diagnose and fix the problem—before it leads to an even bigger headache (and expense).
Why You Should Maintain Your Water Heater
There are two main reasons why heating maintenance Tulsa OK is necessary: to extend its lifespan and to prevent costly repairs. Just like any other appliance in your home, your water heater is subject to wear and tear.
Sediments can build up over time and cause corrosion, which reduces the efficiency of your water heater and can lead to leaks. By flushing your tank and removing sediments on a regular basis, you can prevent these problems and extend the life of your water heater.
In addition to extending the lifespan of your water heater, regular maintenance can also prevent costly repairs down the road. Many water heaters fail because sediments clog vital components within the tank, causing it to overheat or rupture.
By flushing your tank twice a year, you can remove these sediments before they cause serious damage. While flushing your tank may not seem like a big deal, it could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in expensive repairs down the line.
If you need help with your water heater, whether you need repair or heating maintenance Tulsa OK, you can count on Air Solutions for the best service! Call them at (918) 876-5927 to schedule an appointment.