3 Signs Your Water Heater Needs Repair

The hot season is around the corner, and most people can only think about the summer break. We don’t use that much hot water in the summer, so it’s easy to overlook its maintenance over this period. Yet, it’s precisely because of this that now’s a good time to give your water heater a good look for tell-tale signs of trouble.

Read the Signs

Many homeowners only acknowledge the existence of a water heater in their homes when it starts failing. The maintenance routine of a water heater is fairly simple, but it’s advisable to look for professional water heater services if you feel unsure about it. If you see one of these signs on your water heater, it’s time for a repair.

Colored Water

Water should always be clear, of course. So, if water comes rusty or dirty out of the tap, there’s a problem. It could be either a problem with the pipe or with the tank.

Observe if it comes with sediments or particles; in this case, it’s probably an issue with the tank. Drinking this water isn’t only dangerous to your health, but letting this problem grow will lead to replacing the tank. Avoid such a cost with regular maintenance.

Leaks

Leaks are always a terrible sign and should be dealt with immediately. It shows that your tank is a serious problem, and it could be dangerous around electric appliances or children. Leaks can happen due to cracks or holes caused by corrosion.

These cracks and holes must be closed as soon as possible. Not doing so will risk the entire appliance and even damage the floor in the end. It also means your tank will need more energy to heat water. Glass-lined tanks can’t be mended, so if you have one, the chances are that you’ll need to replace it.

Flush Your Problems Away

You can increase the longevity of your water heating system by doing one simple thing: flushing it regularly. With time, sediments will collect at the bottom of the tank. When the water heats, so do the sediments, piercing holes in the bottom. This is the point of no return: you’ll have to replace it, and it won’t be cheap.

Sure, there are more entertaining things to do on a sunny day than flushing your heater. Yet, it’s a necessary chore, with nasty consequences for those skipping it. At least it isn’t a complicated one. Check the guide below for doing it safely.

Shut down electricity and valves
Attach hoses on the valves for hot and cold water
Empty the tank manually or with a sump pump
Flush the tank: use only vinegar
Shut the valves and detach the hoses

The Last Drop

Only open the valves after the hoses are attached to avoid dangerous hot water sprays. Also, avoid using cider vinegar for the task, as it stains the tank. Keeping a tanked system in shape isn’t complicated and can be done safely, following the steps mentioned above. Nevertheless, call a professional if you don’t feel confident enough to do it yourself.

Photo by Amritanshu Sikdar on Unsplash