Water Heater Troubles
Your Minneapolis/St. Paul home’s water heater is a one-of-a-kind appliance. It is the only device that delivers the hot water you need for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. Unfortunately, when this workhorse is not functioning correctly, it has a significant impact on the function of your entire home. So the experts at Paul Bunyan Plumbing And Drains would like to demystify the four most common water heater troubles and what can be done to correct them. The great news in many cases is that the highly skilled pros at Paul Bunyan can repair many water heater issues for a fraction of the cost of installing a new unit.
Water Temperature Issues
The problem that comes to mind first is a lack of hot water. It can be due to a failed heating element, a bad thermostat, or even a loss of power to the water heater. Verifying the power is typically the best place for you to do a little DIY investigating. Check the power switch and indicator on the water heater as well as the breaker or fuse for the electrical supply. If a power loss is not the solution, call 612-340-1444 to schedule an appointment with the Paul Bunyan team to evaluate the other components that could be to blame for your lack of hot water.
Water Leaks
Many culprits could be to blame for a puddle of hot water under your water heater. In most cases, these issues can be cost-effectively repaired. Some of the common leaks occur at:
- A failed pressure relief valve
- Loose bolt on the heating element
- A worn-out gasket
- A failed valve of fitting on a nearby water pipe
The final scenario is not as simple to correct. If the holding tank of the water heater has been compromised by corrosion and rust, there is no industry-standard acceptable repair. Once the tank wall is damaged and leaking, the entire water heater must be replaced for the safety of your loved ones and home.
Discolored Water
Slightly yellow, tan, or rusty-looking water can be caused by a failing anode rod. It is a piece of metal rod designed to attract the corrosive elements in the water to prevent damage to the inside of the holding tank. When the rod is worn out, the water in the tank will appear rusty. Fast action is imperative when you notice this coloration of the water. The rod must be replaced before the corrosion compromises the integrity of the holding tank, and a new water heater is required.
Strange Noises
If you discover crackling, popping, or banging sounds coming from the water heater holding tank, the issue is typically sediment buildup at the heating element. These minerals are burning off the heating element. While there is no concern of the tank exploding, the sounds can be alarming and are an indication that the tank should be drained and flushed to remove the sediment.
Call 612-340-1444 to reach the water heater experts at Paul Bunyan Plumbing And Drain for cost-effective and fast solutions to all your water heater worries.
