Water heaters are a necessary part of any home. They provide hot water for bathing, washing dishes, and laundry. The global water heater market was valued at $27.36 billion in 2019.
But what do you do when your water heater breaks down? Do you try to fix it yourself or call in an expert?
This article will discuss the benefits of calling an expert to repair your water heater. It will also discuss some common problems with water heaters and prevent them.
How Does a Water Heater Work and What are The Different Types?
There are three types of water heaters: gas, electric, and oil. Each type of water heater has its own set of pros and cons.
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters are the most popular type of water heater. They are less expensive than electric water heaters, and they have a shorter recovery time, meaning that they can heat a larger volume of water in a shorter amount of time.
These have a gas burner that heats the water in the tank. The gas is usually natural gas or propane.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters are more expensive than gas water heaters, but they have a longer lifespan and use less energy. These are made of a tank with an electric heating element. The water is heated by the electricity passing through the element and into the water.
Oil Water Heaters
These run with oil and have a storage tank. They are not as popular as the other two types, but they are less expensive to operate.
Common Problems with a Water Heater That Need Expert Help
There are a few common problems that can occur with a water heater. Some of them are explained below:
1) Temperature Is Not Enough
It can be due to many reasons, such as the thermostat not being set high enough, sediment build-up in the tank, or a broken heating element.
A thermostat is a device that controls the temperature of a system.
Sediment build-up is when minerals and other materials accumulate on the bottom of the tank. A heating element is a component in an electrical appliance that converts electricity into heat. If your water heater isn’t providing enough warmth, you’ll need to call in an expert to diagnose and
If your water heater isn’t producing hot water, it’s essential to call an expert right away. Trying to fix it yourself could result in a more severe issue.
A plumber can help you figure out what’s causing the problem and get your water heater back up and running.
2) Water Flow is Less than Normal
If the water flow from your water heater is less than usual, it could signify that the unit isn’t heating correctly. A faulty heating element often causes this problem.
If you notice that water flow from your water heater is lower than usual, it’s essential to call an expert right away. They can use special tools like a thermal camera to diagnose the issue and make necessary repairs.
If you’re experiencing a decrease in water flow from your water heater, it could indicate something wrong with the unit. A common problem that causes this issue is a faulty heating element.
3) Water is Too Hot or Too Cold
If the water coming from your water heater is too hot or too cold, it’s another clear sign that something is wrong.
If you’re getting scalding hot water or icy cold water from your water heater, a local plumber will use techniques and tools to figure out what’s going on.
They’ll be able to identify the root of the problem and make the necessary repairs so that you can have lukewarm water again soon.
Don’t try to fix this problem on your own since you could end up making it worse or even injuring yourself in the process.
4) There’s Water Around the Base of the Heater
If you notice water pooling around the base of your water heater, it’s a sign that there’s a severe problem.
The most likely culprit is a ruptured tank, which can be incredibly dangerous. A tank can get damaged due to various reasons like corrosion, manufacturing defects, or even dropping the heater. If you notice water at the base of your heater, turn it off and call a professional technician to repair your water heater.
Not only is there the potential for an electrical shock, but you could also end up with a flooded home.
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing any of the issues we’ve mentioned, it’s best to call in a professional technician. They are able to diagnose the problem and fix it quickly and safely.
A licensed plumber will also be able to check for any other potential issues with your water heater and advise you on the best course of action.
