Does Your Water Heater Need Repair?

How Do I Know If My Water Heater is Broken?

When you are ready to step into a nice, hot shower or wash some dishes with clean, hot water, you are expecting the water to be hot. If this is not the case or you are noticing something else unusual happening with your water, you may need JBK Plumber’s expert hot water heater repair! 

 

1. Not Enough Water

Depending on the type of hot water heater you have, there are a number of things you can check to see if the unit simply needs quick maintenance. For a gas heater, you may just need to relight the pilot light. An electric unit may have tripped a breaker. However, if you have power and fuel but the water isn’t hot, you may need to replace the heating element, thermostat, or clean out some sediment build-up. Since water obviously isn’t heating in the amount of speed, if at all, then the first places to check are the heating controls. Gas water heaters us a thermocouple with a pilot light, or an electronic ignition furnace with an intermittent pilot or hot surface ignition. An electric water heater uses an electric thermostat but the problem could also be in the upper element. You can call me at 801-874-7976 and I can usually let you know over the phone if this is the problem. I can also have you check a few other possible causes or do a free inspection of your water heater.

2. Rotten Egg Smell

The rotten egg odor is caused by bacteria reacting to the magnesium anode rod inside your heater. The anode is designed to take the corrosion which is inevitable rather than your heater. The cause of the odor is certain bacteria will react with the magnesium anode rod inside your water heater. The result? A rotten egg odor. The solution is to replace your Anode Rod and perform our 3 yr servicing. 

3. Rusty Water

If the magnesium anode rod has not been replaced every 2 years or so, you may begin to see rusty or black water. The Anode Rod is used to be the sacrificial part of your water heater to take the corrosion instead of your tank. When the anode rod hasn’t been replaced for over 2 yrs then you can start to see rust or black water. The solution is to replace your Anode Rod and perform our 3 yr Servicing. 

4. Slow Flow or Leaking

Slow flow could be the result of sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank which just needs a system flush. There may also be a burner problem, so some vital parts may need to be replaced. If there is leaking around the bottom of the tank, that is generally a sign that your unit is getting too old and needs to be replaced. It’s one of the few problems that cannot be fixed. Call for more specific pricing 801-874-7976.  

5. Weird Noises

Sediment at the bottom of the tank can cause all kinds of issues including odd noises like popping, crackling, or rumbling. If you are hearing weird sounds coming from the tank, it’s probably time for a system flush so the heater can work more easily.

6. It’s Over 10 Years Old

Water heaters are designed to last between 10 and 15 years, on average and with regular maintenance. If your hot water heater is reaching that age range and has not been performing at its optimum level, it may be time for a replacement.

 

Water Heater Repair Experts

At JBK Plumbers, we have the skills, knowledge, and experience to diagnose your hot water heater troubles and help you decide whether you should replace the unit or repairs can be done. If you are experiencing any of the above issues, contact us today. We offer free quotes and affordable service to ensure your water stays hot.