Ignoring signs of plumbing problems usually ends up causing more damage than if you address the issue as soon as it arises. Sure, you can call for emergency plumbing services in Salt Lake City or any other city when your water heater suddenly breaks down in the middle of winter, but do you really want to wait until the damage is extensive?
Here are the common signs of a malfunctioning water heater:
1. Fluctuating water temperature
When you notice that your water comes out lukewarm or cold when you set it to hot, it’s an obvious sign that there’s something wrong with your water heater. Usually, the cause of irregular water temperature is an accumulation of water deposits in the heating elements. This is especially true for older units that have been used for more than ten years already. But if your water heater is relatively new, the issue might be something else. Call in a professional to find out the problem.
2. You run out of hot water quickly
Hot water tends to run out if you use it too much, but if your hot water starts to run out quicker than usual, there might be an issue with your heating element.
There are two heating elements in your water heater. One of them heats up the water in the upper part of the tank while the other one heats the lower part of the tank. If your water heater runs out too quickly, one or both of the heating elements might be broken.
3. Water comes out discolored
Discolored water is a telltale sign of corrosion or contamination in your tank. This poses a significant health risk to your home, especially if you drink water out of the tap. Thus, if your water comes out brown, red, or with rust particles, contact a water heater repair service to fix the problem immediately.
4. There are rumbling noises coming from your tank
No matter what appliance it is, strange noises usually mean nothing good. If your water heater starts making unusual noises like rumbling or clanging, it’s best to have a professional come over and see what the problem is. There might be accumulated sediments at the bottom of your water heater, which may be causing the rumbling or clanging noise.
5. You see water around the heater
Look out for puddles near your water heater. If there’s water around it, it’s a sign that your water heater is leaking.
Even the smallest leaks can lead to water damage and mold growth, so don’t ignore the problem for too long. Call a repair service soon and be sure to clean up the water from time to time until the problem is fixed. Otherwise, the accumulated moisture can make your repair bills much more expensive if it causes mold or water damage.
Being extra vigilant is important to keep problems from getting worse. When you see these signs of a malfunctioning water heater, make it a point to ask for professional help right away.
