Water heaters are a silent hero in our homes. We often take them for granted until that icy blast of cold water hits us during a relaxing shower. It’s at that moment when we truly appreciate the warmth and comfort our trusty water heaters provide.
But, like all appliances, water heaters can sometimes fail, leaving us in the lurch. In such times, it’s essential to know how to troubleshoot and fix common issues. Here are five ways to fix a water heater when it decides to act up.Â
Check the Power Supply:
When your water heater suddenly stops working, the first thing to do is check if it’s receiving power. Sometimes, a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse can be the culprit. Head to your circuit breaker panel and look for any switches that have flipped to the “Off” position.
If you find one that corresponds to your water heater, reset it. If you’re not comfortable doing this or if the breaker keeps tripping, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. They offer 24/7 emergency water heater repair services, ensuring your hot water supply is restored promptly.Â
Inspect the Pilot Light:
For gas water heaters, a common issue is a malfunctioning pilot light. If the pilot light goes out, your water heater won’t heat the water. To relight it, turn off the gas supply to the water heater, wait a few minutes for any lingering gas to dissipate, and then carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight the pilot light.
If you’re not confident about this process or the pilot light keeps going out, it’s time to seek help from a professional plumber who specializes in water heater repairs.Â
Drain and Flush the Tank:
Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, affecting your water heater’s efficiency. This can lead to strange noises, reduced heating capacity, and even damage to the heating elements.
To fix this, turn off the power supply to the heater, connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, and carefully drain a few gallons of water. This will help flush out the sediment. Repeat the process until the water runs clear.Â
Test the Pressure Relief Valve:
The pressure relief valve is a critical safety component of your water heater. It helps prevent excessive pressure buildup inside the tank. To test it, simply lift the lever on the valve and allow some water to escape.
If it doesn’t release water or if it continues to drip afterward, it may be faulty and needs replacement. A malfunctioning pressure relief valve can be dangerous, so don’t hesitate to call a plumber for prompt repair or replacement.
Insulate the Pipes and Tank:
If your water heater takes longer than usual to heat water or if it struggles to maintain a consistent temperature, it might be due to heat loss. Insulating the hot water pipes and the tank itself can help retain heat and improve energy efficiency.
You can find pipe insulation at most hardware stores, and adding a water heater blanket to your tank can also make a significant difference.