Fixing Your Water Heater: Tips and Tricks

A water heater is easy to overlook until it stops working. Issues like no hot water, leaks, or strange noises can cause frustration, but regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs. Understanding common problems and taking simple steps to maintain your system can keep it running efficiently for years.

If your water heater needs attention, Tom’s Plumbing and Drain Service, LLC is here to help. Contact us for expert repairs, maintenance, or replacements to keep your hot water flowing without interruption.

Understanding Water Heaters

Water heaters provide hot water for cooking, sanitizing, bathing, and cleaning. Knowing how they work and what parts need attention can help you keep yours in good condition.

Types of Water Heaters

Most homes use one of two types:

Traditional Tank Water Heaters: Store a set amount of heated water in a tank and typically last 8 to 12 years. Regular flushing is needed to prevent sediment buildup.
Tankless Water Heaters: Heat water only when needed, providing an unlimited supply. They cost more upfront but last over 20 years and reduce long-term energy bills.

Main Parts of a Water Heater

Regardless of type, all water heaters have parts that keep them working properly:

Heating Elements or Burners: Warm the water using electricity or gas.
Thermostat: Controls the water temperature, which should be around 120°F to prevent burns and save energy.
Anode Rod: Helps prevent rust inside the tank.
Pressure Relief Valve: Releases excess pressure to avoid tank failure.
Insulation: Helps keep heat from escaping, improving efficiency.

Adding an insulation blanket to your water heater can reduce heat loss and help lower energy costs.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Taking care of your water heater can extend its life, improve efficiency, and reduce unexpected repairs.

Lowers Energy Use

Sediment buildup forces your heater to work harder, increasing energy costs. Flushing the tank every six months helps clear out debris and improve performance. Insulating the tank and pipes can also help reduce heating costs.

Extends the Lifespan

Tank water heaters usually last 12 years, while tankless models can go beyond 20 years. Without maintenance, rust and buildup can cause early failure. Checking the anode rod and draining the tank regularly helps keep everything running well.

Reduces Repair Costs

Fixing a water heater can be expensive. Replacing a worn-out pressure relief valve is much cheaper than dealing with a major leak or full unit failure. Routine maintenance helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive problems.

Prevents Safety Issues

A malfunctioning water heater can be dangerous. Faulty thermostats, excess pressure, or gas leaks increase the risk of explosions, scalding, or carbon monoxide leaks. Checking for leaks, rust, and pressure problems can help avoid these risks.

Keeps Hot Water Flowing

No one wants a cold shower in the morning. Regular maintenance keeps the system working as it should, so you always have hot water when you need it.

Warning Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention

If you notice any of these issues, your water heater may need repairs:

Rust or Corrosion: If there’s rust on the tank or water connections, the inside may also be corroding, which can lead to leaks.
Strange Noises: Popping or rumbling sounds are signs of sediment buildup, which can overheat and damage the unit.
Unstable Water Temperature: If your water keeps getting too hot or too cold, it could mean the thermostat or heating element needs replacing.
Leaks or Discolored Water: Puddles near your heater or brownish water from the tap might mean internal rust or bacteria buildup.
Higher Energy Bills: A sudden increase in your gas or electricity bill might mean your heater isn’t working efficiently.

Step-by-Step Water Heater Maintenance

Taking a few simple steps can help your heater last longer and work better.

Test the Pressure Relief Valve: Lift the valve lever slightly. If no water flows or it keeps dripping, replace the valve to prevent pressure buildup.
Check and Replace the Anode Rod: The anode rod prevents rust inside the tank. If you see visible rust or exposed wire, replace it every three to five years.
Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment: Drain a few gallons of water from the tank twice a year to remove sediment. This prevents clogs, overheating, and strange noises.
Adjust the Thermostat: Lowering the temperature from 140°F to 120°F helps save energy and reduces wear on heating elements.
Clean the Air Intake Filter (For Tankless Models): A clogged filter blocks airflow, which can cause overheating and reduced efficiency. Wash it regularly with soapy water, let it air dry, and put it back in place.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Sometimes, replacing the unit is the better option. Here’s when you should think about an upgrade:

Your Unit Is Over 10 Years Old: Most traditional tanks last 8-12 years, while tankless heaters last up to 20 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be time for a replacement.
Frequent Repairs Are Adding Up: If repair costs exceed half the price of a new unit, upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model is a better choice.
Leaks or Standing Water: A leaking tank cannot be repaired. If you notice water pooling around the base, it’s time for a new heater.
Rising Energy Bills: Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR-certified water heater can lower heating costs and improve efficiency.

Keep Your Water Heater Running Smoothly

Routine maintenance and minor repairs can prevent major breakdowns, extend your heater’s life, and keep your energy bills under control. Whether it’s flushing the tank, replacing the anode rod, or checking for leaks, simple steps make a big difference.

For expert advice and professional services, contact Tom’s Plumbing and Drain Service, LLC. We’ll help keep your hot water running without interruption. Call us today!