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Most people tend to take a working plumbing system for granted; however, when something goes wrong with a water system in Chattanooga, TN, this can leave people scrambling to get help. A water heater is one of the most common parts of a plumbing system that needs the emergency attention of trained professionals. The earlier these issues are caught, the faster they can be addressed and the less expensive they will be. For this reason, it is important for everyone to know about the most common signs a water heater repair is needed.
The Water Temperature Starts to Fluctuate
One of the first signs that something is wrong with a water heater is irregular water temperatures. When someone gets in the shower, they probably expect their water to take a few seconds to heat up; however, does the water temperature then start to drop all of a sudden? Then, later on, does the water heat up again? Sometimes the water might even come out cold and only end up lukewarm despite being turned up to the highest setting.
These are signs that the attention of a water heater repair professional is needed. There are lots of issues that might be causing this problem. Sometimes, there are mineral deposits that accumulate in and around the water heater, covering the heating elements and causing the heater to malfunction. Depending on the exact nature of the problem, a water heater repair technician will either recommend repairing a broken part or replacing the system entirely.
The Water Appears to be Changing Colors
It should be obvious that water in Chattanooga, TN needs to come out clear. Any other color is a cause for concern. Sometimes, it might be hard to see through the water; however, this is usually due to high pressure. Once the water pressure is turned down, the color should be clear once again.
One of the most common “alternative” colors is brown. This should be a cause for immediate concern. This is a sign that rust is building up in the water heater. Over time, the sediment from the rust will start to accumulate in the water tank. As a result, this will change the color of the water. This is a serious health hazard and requires the attention of an experienced water heater repair professional. With the help of a trained technician, this problem can be addressed quickly.
The Hot Water Keeps Running Out Unexpectedly
There are times when people expect hot water to be of limited supply; however, in Chattanooga, TN, these times are typically reserved for large family gatherings around the holidays when the water is used almost continuously. If hot water starts to run out on a regular basis, this is a sign that there is something wrong with the heating elements. Most hot water heaters have two different elements. One is located at the top of the water heater and the other is at the bottom. With both elements intact, there are should plenty of hot water for routine use. If there is a problem with either of the heating elements, the hot water will dissipate much more quickly. If the hot water is running out routinely, then it is time to ask a professional to take a look at the heating elements.
The Tank Is Making Odd Noises
Nothing scares a homeowner more than odd noises they can’t identify. Sometimes, they start to come from the hot water heater. This is typical as the heater starts to age. Over time, it is going to grow from a mild buzz into loud, rumbling noises. Some people think their hot water tank is “too full” but this is not the case. It is normal for a hot water heater to make a little bit of noise.
On the other hand, if these noises grow to become cracking or popping noises, this is a serious issue. This could be a sign of serious problems. The attention of a water heater repair professional is required. In some situations, the water heater becomes noisy due to mineral deposits that are floating around. It is also possible that excess noise is weakening the structure of the tank, causing it to start leaking. In other cases, the dip tube in the tank might also be broken. In order to figure out what the problem is, rely on a water heater repair technician.
There Is Water Leaking from the Tank
While it is important to listen for noises, it is also a good idea to watch for water leaks. If the structure of the tank has been compromised to some extent, water will start to drip from the tank. As water pools around the bottom of the tank, bigger problems are going to arise. For example, there might be electrical appliances around the area that might spark, short-circuit, or even electrocute someone. If pets are in the area, they might injure themselves in the pooled water.
Furthermore, with water pooling around the tank, this might also lead to corrosion. As the rest of the tank starts to corrode and rust, more problems are going to develop. If there is a leak present in the water tank, it needs to be addressed immediately. The sooner it is addressed, the less the repair is going to cost. Rely on water heater repair professionals to solve this issue.
Call the Team from Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air
These are only a few of the many signs that a water heater repair is needed. Anyone who is noticing strange or unusual signs from the water heater should trust the professionals from Metro Plumbing, Heating and Air. The sooner a water heater repair is addressed, the faster the building will have reliable, consistent, and safe hot water once again. To learn more about how we can help you, please call us today! We would be honored to help you with all of your plumbing, heating, and air needs.