Photo By

Plumbing problems can happen at any time of the day or night. They are never fun to deal with, especially when they come as a surprise. It can be difficult to predict any issue with your plumbing system since most fixtures are underneath or outside the property. A water heater is part of the plumbing system. There are two main types of water heaters; gas and electric, and the main difference between the two is the source of heat. In an electric water heater, water is heated by electric heating elements positioned at the upper and lower part of the tank, while gas water heaters have a gas burner that heats the water from below the tank.

Water heaters rarely cross one’s mind until the time you face a problem, for instance, when taking a shower and you get hit by cold water or very hot water. As long as the heater is delivering hot water on demand, it goes unnoticed. However, like any other mechanical system, it is important to conduct regular inspections on the water heater system. Below are ways to troubleshoot electric water heater problems.

No hot water

A water heater that is not producing hot water at all might be having a failing heating element. Defective water heaters lead to the production of little or no heat in the water. You can solve this by repairing the element which is not as costly as replacing the entire tank. Improper setting of the limit switch can cause it to trip thus causing no power flowing to the heating elements.

Homeowners in Chattanooga, TN, should contact a water heater repair technician to check the water heater’s circuit breaker in the service panel to confirm whether it has tripped. If the breaker hasn’t tripped, the professional can reset the limit to the correct temperatures that will warm the water. And if that doesn’t solve the problem, the repair expert can check whether the home water pressure is reasonable or if the water heater needs maintenance services such as replacement.

Inadequate hot water

Homeowners in Chattanooga, TN, should ensure that the size of their water heater tanks matches their family’s hot water needs. The demand for hot water should not exceed the capacity of a water heater tank. In instances where the water heater produces hot water but not enough, it could be an indication that the water heater tank is too small to meet the household demands. In that case, calling a water heater repair technician would be ideal to get installation services for low-flow showerheads, and you should also spread out the time you use appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines.

Faulty heating elements can also be a cause of inadequate hot water. A shower that has an adequate supply of lukewarm water that isn’t hot enough is an indication that the upper heating element is failing. A concerned homeowner should think of seeking repair services, and you can contact a certified technician before the plumbing problem becomes too serious to warrant a replacement.

Varying water temperature

Water heaters that release fluctuations in water temperature could be a sign that your appliance is defective, and ignoring this may exacerbate the problem. Imagine getting burns from taking a super-hot shower or taking a cold shower in winter. It can be frustrating, right? Too much hot water can be just as uncomfortable as taking a cold shower. Having a water heater repair technician inspect your water heater can help ensure that the thermostat is set to your desired temperatures. The professional can also confirm whether the thermostat alters on its own accord or not, and they can advise whether you need repair or replacement services. If very hot water is running out quickly, it could mean that the lower heating element might be defective. For the repair of the heating element, it will be wise to contact a water heater repair professional.

Water leaks

Most water heater tanks are out of sight and are barely noticeable since they are often found outside the property. If there is water pooling around the tank or dripping from it, it is an indication of serious internal problems with the tank. Immediate action to stop the leakage will be beneficial to avoid more complications. It is advisable to call a technician for water heater repair if something is amiss. The expert can inspect the water heater to identify the source of the leak, which can be due to poor connections or temperature-pressure relief valves that release excess or built-up pressure from the tank. Additionally, tank corrosions or loose water heating elements can be a cause of leakage. You can solve the problems by seeking help from a water heater repair technician to tighten the heating elements to stop the leakage.

Discolored water and bad odor

If you experience odors from the water that smell like rotten eggs or muddy hues or otherwise see discoloration of the water, your water heater might be the culprit. This can be due to rust or bacteria present in the tank. Bacteria can thrive in the presence of a broken anode rod. Local homeowners experiencing such nasty odors and water discoloration should call a technician to inspect the issue and confirm whether the problem is with the water source or the heater itself. Once you determine the cause, you may simply need water heater repair services.

Noises in the water heater tank

Normally, water heater tanks make a little noise due to the water boiling and cooling off. However, in instances where the noise is unusual involving bangs, popping sounds, gurgling, and loud cracks, your water heater might be in trouble. The loud noise can emanate from burning sediment and scale or a deteriorating heating element. It is advisable to call a water heater repair professional to check up on the cause of the noise and work on the necessary repairs.

Need water heater repair? Contact your expert plumbing technician

Being prepared and avoiding water heater problems before they arise is always a good strategy. Metro Plumbing, Heating & Air serves the area. We are always ready to provide all the plumbing services that you require, including troubleshooting any issue that may occur in the future. Contact us today for plumbing services, and we’ll diligently serve you even during emergencies.