There is nothing like having hot water at your disposal in your house when you need it from a tankless water heater. It is excellent for doing such things as getting your clothes extra clean, rinsing off greasy dishes, giving the baby a warm bath and ending your day with a nice hot relaxing shower. That is why it is so inconvenient to have water heater problems at the wrong time. Here is a list of the most common water heater problems.
Bad Thermostat
If everything seems to be working right on your water heater but the water is cold or just lukewarm, you probably have a bad thermostat. Try turning it up higher and see if that helps. If not, then replace it with a smart thermostat.
Burnt Out Electrical Contractor
If your water heater is tripping the breaker or not heating and it has a burning smell, it may be that the electrical contractor has burnt up. Open the panel where you see the electrical connections coming in and see if there are signs of burning or melting on the electrical contractor and replace if necessary.
Corroded Heating Element
A corroded heating element is one of the more common water heater problems. If your water heater is tripping the units GFI breaker then this is probably the case and it will need to be replaced.
Leaks on the Incoming and Outgoing Plumbing
Small leaks will often develop on the incoming and outgoing plumbing lines so make checking your water heater for such things as leaks a part of your monthly housing inspections as mentioned. If you do see a leak fix it right away to make sure the line does not break completely or the water does not drip on an area where it will start to corrode other parts of the water heater.
Storage Tank Rupture
This is another of the more common water heater problems and you will know right away because it will flood the area the water heater is in. Unfortunately there is no repair for this and the entire unit will need replacing.
How to Avoid Water Heater Problems
Here are some simple ways you can help to extend the life of the water heater in your home:
- Drain your water tank at least once every six months
- Make sure the incoming water in your house is balanced and sediment free; put a filter or salt system on it if it contains a lot of metal or corrosive type water characteristics
- Check your plumbing connections for leaks as part of your household monthly maintenance
- Keep the area around your water heater free of clutter so it does not cause a hazard and your heater gets the air it needs
- Try setting the thermostat a few degrees lower for increased longevity
- NEVER shut off the incoming And outgoing water lines unless THE POWER IS CUT OFF to the WATER HEATER
A water heater is something that most people take for granted until they suffer from water heater problems and can’t use it anymore. Be proactive and use these tips so you don’t end up in this situation.