Your hot water system is one of those household amenities that typically goes unnoticed until it fails. That’s why you need hot water system repairs.
Whether it’s for your morning shower, washing the dinner dishes or doing the laundry, hot water is an important part of your daily comfort and routine.
However, your hot water heater is subject to failure (like any system), and if you can’t recognize the signs of potential trouble, then you may end up needing costly repairs, or even worse, putting your safety in jeopardy.
Here are the signs you need hot water system repairs now.
1. Inconsistent Water Temperature
If your water is hot one minute and cold the next, then you know something is going wrong inside your hot water system.
This is often a lack of contact with a thermostat, or a build-up of sediment in the tank, or a problem with the heating element.
Don’t neglect this, because this will become a repair if it then turns into a complete loss of hot water.
2. No Hot Water at All
This is hard to miss. Who wants to wake up to a cold shower?
If your hot water system drastically cuts off hot water production, then you know there is a serious problem with power supply, a pilot light (in gas units), or one of the internal components.
Avoid the trouble and hire a qualified plumber to diagnose and repair.
3. Low Hot Water Pressure
You can waste a lot of time trying to complete daily tasks with weak hot water pressure.
The issue may be the result of a pressure valve, a tank issue, or, the more likely cause, is the sediment and mineral build-up in the pipes.
If you only have low pressure in your hot water but normal cold water pressure, it is almost guaranteed your hot water system needs servicing.
4. Strange Noises from the System
Are you hearing banging, rumbling or popping from the hot water unit? These sounds are usually sediment causing some disturbance, often through dense accumulation at the bottom of the tank.
If sediment continues to accumulate and it hardens, it will limit the system’s ability to heat water efficiently, straining the system and often causing it to fail eventually.
Don’t wait until the hot water unit doesn’t produce any hot water.
5. Dull or Rusty Water
If your hot tap water is brown, yellow or is rusty, you may have corrosion taking place inside your hot water cylinder.
Delaying service could turn into a tank leak or failing tank entirely. A professional may identify a viable solution depending on whether the issue is located in the tank or your pipes.
6. Water Puddles Around the Unit
Even a small puddle near your hot water heater should be alarming. Puddles may be the result of a defective pressure relief valve, corrosion, or cracks in the tank.
If these leaks are not addressed the cost of water damage, mould and higher utility bills will be significant.
7. Hot Water Runs Out Quickly
If the hot water from your hot water tank doesn’t last as long as it used to, it is often a sign that the heating element is starting to fail or sediment has built up in the tank reducing the effectiveness and capacity of the tank.
The problem will not resolve itself; in fact, it will likely become worse. If you suspect this issue, it is best to address it quickly.
8. Strange Smells from Hot Water Taps
A sulphur-like or rotten egg smell from the hot water taps is usually a sign of bacteria releasing gases that react with the anode rod in the tank.
This is not dangerous but it is foul-smelling, and suggests that the system is in need of maintenance or repair.
When to Call a Professional
You should not hesitate to call a professional when you see any of these warning signs.
If hot water systems are left unattended they can become dangerous, particularly gas hot water systems.
A licensed plumber or hot water expert will be able to identify the problem, carry out the necessary hot water system repairs and allow you to avoid the cost of replacing the entire system.
Final Thoughts
Being vigilant about your hot water system will save you time, money and cold showers. Whether it’s odd sounds you hear, pressure drops, or no hot water at all, these are red flags you should never ignore.
Getting a quick repair completed will not only restore comfort in your home, it will also prolong the life of the hot water system.
Need urgent help with your hot water system repairs? Contact a local, licensed plumber today to get things rolling.
