Your water heater is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, but like most people, you probably don’t think about it until something goes wrong. However, when a water heater does malfunction, it can quickly turn from a minor inconvenience to a major emergency. Recognizing the early signs of trouble, the potential risks of delaying action, and when to get a professional evaluation can make all the difference. You’ll be better prepared to maintain a reliable and efficient system!
Andreas Plumbing knows how frustrating water heater woes can be, which is why we’re here to shine a light on common issues, what they mean, and when you should call our team of experts for help. Your family deserves a reliable source of hot water, so we deliver long-lasting solutions. This includes water heater repair, water heater replacement, and water heater maintenance for traditional and tankless models alike.
Reach out now if your system is experiencing any of the irregularities mentioned below and experience the difference of comprehensive care with our company in Lehighton, PA.
Signs Your Water Heater Needs Expert Attention
Rusty Water
If you notice rusty water coming from your taps, especially when using hot water, it’s often a sign of corrosion inside your water heater tank. This corrosion can weaken the tank’s interior lining, eventually leading to small leaks or a full tank failure. While rust-colored water may also result from deteriorated pipes, if it’s isolated to the hot water supply, your water heater is likely the culprit.
Insufficient Hot Water
If your once-reliable hot water heater seems to be deteriorating, producing less hot water than before, it’s a red flag. Whether you have an electric water heater or gas model, inconsistent hot water can indicate issues with the heating element, thermostat, burners, or even sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, this can strain your system, leading to higher energy costs and reduced performance.
Strange Noises
Hearing popping, rumbling, or banging sounds from your water heater tank is never normal and should be addressed promptly. These noises often result from sediment buildup, which traps water underneath the sediment layer. As the water heats and escapes, it creates the popping or rumbling sounds you hear.
In some cases, these noises indicate excess pressure building up in the tank, which can lead to system damage or dangerous ruptures. Left unchecked, this stress can cause the tank to crack or the internal components to fail prematurely.
Leaking
Even small leaks around the base of your water heater can escalate into major problems if neglected. Leaks are often caused by internal corrosion, damaged pressure relief valves, or excessive pressure inside the tank, all of which compromise the unit’s safety and efficiency. The presence of standing water can lead to structural damage in your home, promote mold and mildew growth, and increase your repair costs exponentially, making it imperative to tackle right away.
Rising Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your utility bills could be due to your water heater working harder than it should. When internal components such as the heating element, thermostat, or gas burner begin to fail, the system must use more energy to achieve the desired water temperature. This not only impacts your wallet but also shortens the lifespan of your system. Meaning, you may have to replace your water heater sooner than expected.
How Andreas Plumbing Diagnoses Water Heater Problems
Our plumbers combine decades of experience with cutting-edge tools to quickly and accurately diagnose water heater issues. They follow a comprehensive diagnostic process that begins with a thorough visual inspection of the water heater tank for visible signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Performance testing comes next, with a careful evaluation of the heating element, thermostat, and more. Additionally, we analyze the water quality to detect the presence of rust or sediment that might be cause for concern. Our in-depth approach allows us to pinpoint the root cause of trouble and recommend the best solution.
When to Repair vs. When to Replace Your Water Heater
When it comes to addressing water heater issues, some situations can be resolved with a repair, while others require a full replacement. For example, if your water heater is relatively new and the problem is minor — such as a faulty heating element, a malfunctioning thermostat, or sediment buildup in the tank — a repair is often enough of a resolution.
However, there are instances where replacement becomes the best course of action. For problems like water heater leaks, heavy corrosion, or a system that is over 12 years old, repair may not be the most cost-effective or long-lasting way to go.
Similarly, persistent problems like frequent breakdowns, inconsistent hot water supply, or skyrocketing energy bills often signal that a new hot water heater is necessary. In these cases, we might recommend upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient tankless water heater to meet your household’s needs more effectively.
Our technicians use their expertise to thoroughly evaluate your water heater and determine whether repair or replacement is the right solution, always prioritizing safety, performance, and value for your investment.
Call Us Today for Your Water Heater Needs
Why let water heater problems disrupt your daily routine? If you have been experiencing any of the aforementioned warning signs, reach out to Andreas Plumbing for assistance. We’re masters in both electric and gas water heaters, as well as traditional tank and modern tankless models — so no matter what system you have, we can provide a resolution.
Small issues like broken heating elements can usually be resolved with a quick fix, while an aging water heater might need to be swapped out. We can handle repair and replacement, so you don’t have to do any heavy lifting. Plus, with regular maintenance inspections, we can help keep your water heater running like a dream for years to come.
