Is the hot water in your Indianapolis home too cold, discolored or giving you some other trouble? Several things can go wrong with a tank water heater, and it’s good to know what can be solved by a homeowner and what requires expert service. Here’s a brief guide to water heater problems you may experience.
No Hot Water
If you aren’t getting any hot water, first check the pilot light and re-light it if it’s out. If you have a gas heater and you smell gas when you go to investigate, do not light it. Instead, turn off the gas to the heater and ventilate the area. You may also want to check any electrical connections to your unit, including the fuse box and circuit breaker.
Sediment Buildup
If a popping or banging noise is coming from your heater tank, it could be a sign of sediment buildup. Consult your owner’s manual on how to flush the tank. You may need to flush it more than once before all the sediment drains. Check the outside of the tank itself. Sediment buildup can create hot spots that can lead to burning of the tank walls. If you see tank discoloration or corrosion, call in a plumbing professional.
Thermostat Issues
Water from your water heater that’s warm but not hot may indicate a problem with the heater’s thermostat. Make sure it’s set to around 120 degrees. It’s hot enough for household use, but not hot enough to scald.
Leaks
If the floor around the water heater is wet, it could indicate a leak. Check the pipes and valves for anything that needs to be tightened. If the pipes still leak or if the tank itself is leaking, call in the professionals. A leaking water heater may need to be replaced.
Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing helps Indianapolis homeowners manage their home comfort and water supply. If you’re experiencing water heater problems, call us up today!
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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