Common Signs of a Malfunctioning Water Heater
From the time families wake up until the time they go to bed, their hot water heater is being used. This system is needed for hot showers in the morning, cooking, cleaning, brushing teeth, and everything in between. If it malfunctions, it can leave households scrambling.
Bastrop, TX, plumbers share some of the most common symptoms of a broken water heater, including higher utility bills than usual, odd noises, and tints and odors in the water.
Higher Utility Bills Than Usual
If homeowners notice their utility bills getting higher and higher each month—without a reason for the price hike—it can indicate that water heater repairs are needed.
Higher energy bills than normal can indicate a system is running inefficiently. When this happens, water heating can require more energy than usual, resulting in higher bills for the household.
Why does this happen? It can occur for various reasons. Some of the most common are a lack of maintenance, broken components, or an aging unit.
If homeowners don’t schedule regular water heater maintenance, sediment can build up at the bottom of the tank. This can require the water heater to work harder than usual to heat the water properly.
Another common cause is malfunctioning components. If the heating element or thermostat is not working correctly, the system can struggle to operate and use more energy than usual to heat the water.
If a household has an older water heater, it can lose efficiency. Older models also lack energy-saving technology, leading to higher operating costs.
To avoid problems with an inefficient water heater and to save money, homeowners should schedule water heater repairs when they notice their utility bills rising.
Odd Noises
While household members might notice sounds from the water heater while it operates, they should be aware of any strange noises. Usual sounds can indicate a water heater needs repairs.
The type of problem and the needed repairs can depend on the type of sound homeowners hear. Some alarming sounds can include popping, screeching, or crackling.
Popping or rumbling sounds usually stem from sediment buildup in the tank. As the water heats, air bubbles trapped in the sediment escape, creating popping noises. Additionally, sediment can form pockets of trapped water that boil, causing rumbling sounds. Ignoring this issue can lead to overheating and may shorten the water heater’s lifespan.
High-pitched noises like screeching or squealing typically indicate water flow issues, such as a partially closed valve or a pressure imbalance in the system. A plumber can adjust these components to resolve the noise and ensure proper function.
A common sound homeowners might hear in an electric water heater is crackling. This is often caused by sediment around the heating element. Trapped moisture heats up and crackles as it escapes, signaling the need for a tank flush to remove sediment buildup.
Homeowners should promptly schedule a plumbing inspection if they notice these sounds. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues and help extend the life of the water heater.
Weird Colors or Smells
Another common sign of a malfunctioning water heater is unusual colors or strange odors in the water. If these occur, it can indicate a problem with the system.
If a household has rust-colored water, it can signal corrosion inside the water tank. This typically happens when the anode rod, which protects against corrosion, has worn out. If corrosion is severe, a complete water heater replacement might be required.
Cloudiness in hot water can occur due to sediment buildup, especially in areas with hard water. This sediment not only affects water clarity but also reduces the heater’s efficiency. This can lead to larger problems if the tank is not flushed regularly.
If homeowners notice a sulfur or "rotten egg" smell in their water, it can indicate bacterial growth in the water heater tank. Flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod can help eliminate the odor.
Homeowners should schedule a water heater inspection as soon as they notice any of these symptoms. A plumber can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend repairs or replacements.
About Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning
Parobek Plumbing & Air Conditioning has been a family-owned and operated company since 2000. They offer same-day appointments and 5-star services. Call them today for water heater services like water heater repairs and installations in Bastrop, TX.
