Hot Water Heater Problems

The mechanism of a hot water heater is such that it stores water and then heats it. For the proper functioning of a water tank, a heat source is required which is usually electricity or gas, a thermostat which regulates water temperature, a supply source of cold water, and a hot water outlet. For the heater to function effectively, there's an anode, a dip tube that takes the cold unheated water to the bottom of the heater, a metal rod which stops corrosion and does not let the water give out a stinking smell, besides a drain valve. If any of these parts malfunction, it gives rise to hot water heater problems. You may like to know more on water heaters: gas vs electric.

Electric Hot Water Heater Problems

Some of the common problems of electric hot water heaters include water not heated, leakage and water not being hot enough. Let's take a look at the reasons for each of these problems. You may like to know more on best electric hot water heater.

Water Not Heated
If you find that water does not heat at all, the chances are that the high limit switch button has tripped. If this is the cause, you need to repair it as soon as possible. Moreover, if there is no power supply to the thermostat, the chances are that water won't get heated. In such a case, you need to check the circuit breakers and wiring of the heater. If there is a problem with the upper heating element, you need to replace it.

Leakage
Hot water heater leaking is one of the most common problems faced by most households. Leakage may either be due to high pressure or high temperature. If leakage is due to high pressure, then you need to install a valve which can reduce the pressure. On the other hand, if the temperature is too high you need to set the temperature on a slightly lower side, but don't forget to check the thermostat levels.

Water Not Being Hot Enough
If you find that the temperature of water has reduced over time and you don't get the same levels of heating you once got, it may be due to some fault in one of the thermostats. The upper thermostat transmits power to the lower heating element, so if it's faulty, water would not be heated enough. Check the power supply in both of them and make the required changes. Moreover, if the dip tube is broken, you won't get hot water.

Gas Hot Water Heater Problems

Some of the common gas hot water heater problems include reduced hot water, cold water coming out, noise, stink and leakage. Let's take a look at each of these one by one. Read more on best gas water heater.

Reduced Hot Water
If the thermostat temperatures are set low, water won't get heated. So you need to check that. At times the dip tube may come off, thereby causing cold water to come out directly without getting heated.

Cold Water Not Coming Out
If you find that there is no hot water at all, then check the pilot light. If it does not light up, try following the instructions in the hot water heater manual and then try lighting it. However, if you still can't light it, then it may be due to chocking of the pilot line. Moreover, there may be chances that the gas does not reach the heating tank. Additionally, defect in the control valve may also be the reason for no hot water.

Noise and Stink
If your heater makes a peculiar noise, it may be due to sediments getting accumulated in the tank. Moreover, it may also be due to formation of layers on those parts of the heater which helps the water to heat up. Cleaning the heater regularly and flushing can solve this problem.

On the other hand, stinking may be due to the reaction of bacteria in the water with the anode rod. In such a case, the anode rod needs to be replaced. Moreover, it's advised that you clean the heater with chlorine from time to time.

Tankless Hot Water Heater Problems

Tankless hot water heaters use burners with high power so as to heat water quickly while it runs through a heat exchanger. The problems of these water heaters are similar to the gas and electric water heaters and the remedies are also the same.

Hot water heater problems are common occurrences, you need to take good care of your heater so that it doesn't need to be taken to a repair shop. You can apply the above mentioned hot water heater problem solving methods whenever you find a fault with your heater. It's always better to try solving the problem yourself, so that you save a lot of your time and money.