Signs Your Water Heater is in Need of Maintenance

Not having hot water is almost as bad as having no water at all. This makes the water heater a very important appliance. It’s vital to keeping a home sanitary and a family clean. Since you really can’t go more than a few hours without hot water, getting issues repaired before the appliance breaks down makes a great deal of sense. If it’s a high quality appliance, a new water heater shouldn’t give you any trouble for the first 2-3 years. There are always exceptions though, and many times you can tell that there is something not quite right with it.

How does it sound? A water heater that makes popping and banging noises is a sure sign it needs some repair. They do this when minerals build up inside.

Running out of hot water too fast? Unless someone has turned down the heating temperature, chances are one of your heating elements is out. Every water heater has two heating elements, and it is very common for one to burn out ahead of the other.

Does your hot water suddenly smell funny? If there’s a metallic odor, your water heater needs service. This happens not long before an old appliance dies. If it is a gas water heater and you smell rotten eggs, then your anode rod needs replacing.

How does your hot water look? If you’re noticing discolored hot water only, or your hot water has stuff floating in it, your heater’s tank has accumulated a large amount of settlement. This means the tank needs replacing, and it’s very common with older water heaters.

Is it leaking? If you have mold around the water heater, condensation on the outside of it, or water pooled on the floor at the bottom, your appliance needs immediate attention. A small leak is easily repaired. You should make checking for leaks a monthly task.

When you suspect that there is something wrong with a water heater it’s a good idea to get it checked out for possible near future problems. Life very inconvenient when all you have is cold water. Is the water heater in your Burlingame home acting up? Call James Caccia Plumbing at (650) 442-1470 and schedule a service call today!