Water Heater Repair
Hot water repair is important, there’s nothing worse than a cold shower. Gas water heater repair and electric water heater repair will get that hot water running.
Remember
You must always turn off the gas and electricity to a water heater before doing anything else. Safety before everything else.
Reasons for Common Problems
How to make common water heater repairs:
Problem 1: No Hot Water
Gas water heater repair – Check the pilot, thermocouple, and the gas control valve.
Electric water heater repair – Check the thermostats and heating elements.
Problem 2: Not Enough Hot Water. This means the water starts out hot, but soon turns cold.
Possible fixes – temperature setting, heating element (electric only), sediment in the tank, and a damaged dip tube.
Problem 3: Rusty or Smelly Water
This may be caused by corroding pipes or bacteria buildup.
Problem 4: Strange Noises.
A low rumbling or popping noise is likely the sound of boiling water. Sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank causes overheating and boiling.
Hissing sounds could indicate a leak on the bottom of the tank. The leak drips water onto the burner. In a water heater that was just turned on the water may be caused by condensation. This condensation will go away on its own as the tank heats up.
Problem 5: Water leaking from bottom of tank
The leak could be from a temperature and pressure relief valve, nearby plumbing connection, or the tank itself. If it’s the tank leaking there’s no fix for it. You can’t fix a leaking hot water tank.
Water Heater Leak
Water leaking from bottom of tank
The leak could be from a temperature and pressure relief valve, nearby plumbing connection, or the tank itself. If it’s the tank leaking there’s no fix for it. You can’t fix a leaking hot water tank.
Water leaking from the top of the tank
Water on the top of the tank is usually either a leak in the water inlet or outlet. These can be checked and fixed relatively easily. Be sure to do the fix. Continued leaking could cause water damage or even short out the water heater.
Water Heater Installation
How to install a water heater
Remember: Always turn off the electricity / gas before starting. Water and electricity do not mix and gas is dangerous. Also, be sure to have plenty of helpers to move a heavy water heater.
Step 1: Check your water pressure. Use a gauge on an outside spigot. Ideal pressure is 50-60 psi.
Step 2: Determine the needed expansion tank size. A 2 gallon expansion tank is enough for a water heater tank up to 50 gallons. A 5 gallon expansion tank is good for a water heater up to 100 gallons.
Step 3: Remove the old water heater. Remember to first turn off the electricity / gas and water. Then make all disconnections.
Step 4: Follow all instructions to connect the new water heater.
When to Replace a Water Heater
How to decide between water heater repair or replacement
Water heaters last 8 – 12 years. So, if the unit is nearly that old it won’t be worth putting much money into any repair.
Signs you need to replace your hot water heater:
- Water heater is more than 10 years old
- Leaks around the base
- Has repeated issues
Things that are easily repaired:
- Blown fuse
- Tripped breaker
- Pressure relief valve needs replacing
- Heating element needs replacing
How to get help
It's as easy as 1, 2, 3
- Answer a few questions to get personalized quotes.
- Within seconds, get matched with top-rated local plumbers.
- Compare multiple quotes with a single request and choose the best pro for the job.
