Important Basics to Know About Water Heater Repair and When Replacement May Be Needed Instead
Water heater repair can be a lifesaver when unexpected problems disrupt daily routines and comfort because of a lack of hot water and sudden cold showers. There are also warning signs that indicate water heater repair is needed, allowing for repairs to be made before losing hot water. Therefore, it’s important for homeowners to recognize the warning signs of water heater troubles. This guide will discuss signs indicating that a water heater needs repair, common water heater issues, and when water heater replacement may be needed rather than repair.
Signs Water Heater Repair Is Needed
Water heaters can send clear signals when they are malfunctioning and require repair. Recognizing these warning signs early can help avoid losing hot water completely or help prevent problems from worsening and leading to more expensive repairs or needing a total replacement. So, homeowners don’t have to wait until they're stuck taking ice-cold showers to call for water heater repair.
The most obvious indicator involves inadequate hot water production or the complete absence of hot water throughout the home. Strange sounds from the water heater can also indicate sediment buildup or internal component failure, requiring repair, such as rumbling, popping, or banging noises. Monthly utility bills that are unexpectedly high can also indicate several problems with the water heater that cause inefficiency.
A gas water heater with a pilot light that repeatedly extinguishes can also indicate problems requiring professional repair. Discolored, foul-smelling, or metallic-tasting hot water, as well as a leaking water heater, can also indicate problems with the water heater and signal to homeowners that a plumber should be called to inspect the water heater to determine the underlying cause and best solution.
Common Water Heater Issues
When homeowners notice signs of a faulty or malfunctioning water heater that requires repair, several potential issues may be causing the problem. For example, a pilot light that frequently goes out could be caused by issues like a faulty thermocouple or a broken pilot assembly. Water temperature problems can stem from several issues, including faulty thermostats, malfunctioning heating elements in an electric water heater, or sediment buildup in the tank that acts as an insulating barrier between the heating source and the water.
Sediment and mineral accumulation is a common issue that not only affects water heating performance but also efficiency, forcing the unit to work harder and increasing water heating costs. The same sediment buildup can also create those unusual rumbling, popping, or crackling sounds from a water heater and can lead to discolored water that appears rusty or cloudy. When homeowners notice signs of water heater trouble, professionals should be called to determine the cause.
When Is Replacement Needed Rather Than Repair?
While most water heater problems can be solved with professional water heater repair, there are some situations where water heater replacement may be the better option. For example, replacing a water heater can be the smarter financial choice when a water heater experiences frequent breakdowns and repairs, as these repair costs can add up over time and end up nearing or exceeding the cost of replacing the existing water heater with a new, more efficient one.
A water heater’s age is also a good indicator of whether repair or replacement is the better choice when issues arise. Most conventional storage tank water heaters last around 8-12 years, so if a water heater is over 10 years old and needs repair, replacing it may be more cost-effective. Corrosion presents another clear indicator that water heater replacement is needed, whether the corrosion is visible or signs of corrosion are noticed, like discolored, rust-colored water, or metallic tastes or smells. When these signs persist after flushing sediment buildup from the tank, they can point to internal tank corrosion. A plumber can inspect the water heater to determine whether repair or replacement is needed.
About Zing Plumbing
Zing Plumbing is a reliable, licensed plumbing company serving the Tucson area. They offer flat-rate pricing, emergency service, and modern solutions. Call them for water heater repair and replacement services in Tucson, AZ.
