Water Heater Signaling Trouble? Do Not Delay Repairs!

Unfortunately water heaters do not last forever. Eventually your water heater will start to fail. It is important to recognize early signs of failure so you can promptly schedule either repairs or water heater replacement. Waiting too long could lead to extensive leaks, which can cause mold and other water damage. So, what are the key signs of water heater trouble? Take a look.

1. Lack Of Hot Water

If you turn on the hot water tap and the water that comes out is cold, this is a sure sign of water heater trouble. Unless your whole household just took back-to-back showers and depleted the hot water supply, you need to call a residential HVAC contractor. The heating element may have failed. Or, another problem may have triggered the water heater’s emergency shut-off function.

2. Strange Noises

Does your water heater rumble like an engine every time it kicks on? Perhaps you hear a crackling noise as it heats up. These noises usually mean there’s sediment buildup in the bottom of the tank. Often, a heat repair company can simply drain the tank to remove this sediment. But if you don’t do this soon, your tank will lose efficiency and possibly stop heating.

3. Leaks

Check around your hot water heater for any signs of leaks. Even a few drops of water near the base of the tank are a problem. If the leaks are coming from a valve, then a technician may be able to just replace that valve. If the leaks are coming from a hole in the tank itself, then you definitely need a new hot water heater.

4. Brown Or Reddish Water

If brown or red water is coming from your cold water tap, then the problem may lie in your pipes. But if you’re only noticing brown water coming from your hot water pipes, then the problem likely lies in your hot water tank. The discoloration is likely from rust that has formed inside of the tank. You should have the rusting tank replaced before it develops holes that could cause major leaks.

5. Old Age

Hot water heaters generally last about 10 to 15 years. Once they reach this age, they become less efficient. So, even if they are still capable of heating water, replacing them is often a smart way to save money on energy. Replacing an old hot water heater before it fails completely also means you won’t have to deal with a lack of hot water while you await replacement. You can take your time and shop around for the best model.

Get in touch with a heating and air conditoning company when you notice signs of water heater failure. If you’re in the Philadelphia region, contact H & H Heating and Air Conditioning. We offer residential heating repair, AC repair, water heater services, and more.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/water-heater-signaling-trouble-do-not-delay-repairs/