Although your water heater may be a seemingly simple system, they require regular maintenance and care to function properly and last many years. In fact, according to the US Department of Energy, nearly one-third of all homes in America have an older water heater that needs to be replaced with a newer, more efficient version. If you’re unsure what signs to look out for to tell if it’s time to give your water heater some TLC or whether you need to replace it altogether, we’ve got you covered!
Your Water Temperature is Not Comfortable
Since most people take their water temperature for granted, it's easy to forget that a water heater is a necessary system. In fact, many homeowners only think about their water heater once there's an issue, such as the temperature being too hot or too cold. With a little diligence, you can identify potential problems before they escalate. For instance, if you notice your system isn't keeping up with your needs and the temperature fluctuates from hot to cold, it may be time for maintenance or repair work. If you begin to notice this as a typical occurrence each time you do the dishes or bathe, it's time to call our Elite team!
You've Noticed Your Water is a Rusty Color
If you are experiencing rusty water when utilizing both the HOT and COLD tap, this indicates an issue with your pipes. But, if this issue is only occurring from your HOT tap, this is an issue with your water heater. You see, your water heater has a metal pole that is made up of both magnesium and aluminum. Over time, lack of maintenance can lead to rusty water coming out of your faucets when this pole is damaged. When you perform regular maintenance on your system, issues like this can get caught BEFORE it occurs, leaving you with less stress and hassle.
You're Hearing Strange Noises From Your Water Heater
If you hear strange noises from your water heater, it may be time to give it some TLC. Listen for any strange noises coming from the unit, such as clicking, hissing, or grinding. If you hear these sounds, call a plumber for assistance as soon as possible and request a service call for an inspection. These noises may indicate a larger issue at hand or that you have a build-up of mineral deposits near your heating components. The only way to relieve your system is to call one of our expert plumbers at Elite to flush the system and ensure it is all clear. If you fail to take care of this issue, it could lead to a much larger one down the line.
You've Noticed Leaks
Leaks are typically the easiest way to identify a problem with your water heater, but they're not always the only issue you'll find. While this may sound like a no-brainer, many homeowners ignore this sign, as some water here and there may not seem like a huge issue. But if this is left unattended, it could lead to a major disaster later and potential home damage. If leaks become an everyday occurrence or start occurring without warning, it's time to give our team a call.
You're Experiencing Reduced Hot Water Pressure
If you are noticing reduced hot water pressure, it is possible that your heating element needs to be replaced or the system needs to be flushed. You can check the heating element by turning off the power at the breaker box and removing the cover on top. If there is corrosion present and it looks like it has been there for a while, then you need to replace the heating element. If there is no corrosion present, you may only need to flush your system with a solution that removes mineral deposits from within. It is best to leave this to the professionals at Elite to ensure no further damage occurs. Our plumbing pros are ready to handle all your hot water needs.
If you're reading this, it is very likely that you are experiencing one of these issues RIGHT NOW in your home. Don't put off any of these issues, as waiting to perform maintenance can lead to disastrous results for your home. Let our Elite plumbers take care of your water heater maintenance today, and let us keep your home AWESOME!