Who doesn’t like returning to a hot water bath after a busy day? It’s such a soothing experience and takes away all the tiredness. However, isn’t it the worse when suddenly your water heater stops functioning? A water heater is an essential part of your home, and when it is not working correctly, it can significantly impact your daily life. Unfortunately, it isn’t always sudden, and the water heater indicates possible damage that we can identify. 

This article reveals the most common signs that your water heater needs repairs. Read on to learn about these signs so you can repair them rather than opting for a new hot water installation in Melbourne.

Strange Noises From the Unit 

It is essential to take prompt action if you hear unusual noises from your water heater unit, such as clanking, banging, or rumbling sounds. These noises can indicate internal damage to the unit caused by various factors such as sediment buildup, corrosion, or mechanical failure. If left unchecked, the damage can lead to further complications such as leaks, reduced efficiency, and even complete collapse of the water heater. Therefore, contact a licensed 24 hours plumbing service to diagnose and repair the issue before it becomes severe.

Discolored Water

Having yellowish water or noticing particles floating in the water from your tap can indicate sediment buildup in your water heater tank. Sediment buildup can occur when minerals from the water settle at the bottom of the tank over time, forming a layer. This buildup can affect the performance and efficiency of your water heater, leading to reduced heating capacity, increased energy consumption, and even corrosion of the tank. It can also clog pipes and cause damage to other plumbing fixtures. When you notice discolored water, immediately call a commercial plumber to perform repairs before the water heater damages beyond repair.

Low Hot Water Pressure

If you notice a drop in hot water pressure or an increase in the time it takes to flow from the faucet, it could indicate an issue with your water heater. Various factors, including mineral buildup, corrosion, or a malfunctioning component inside the tank, could cause this. These issues can affect water flow, reducing the pressure and causing it to take longer to reach the faucet.

Low water pressure affects the water flow and can lead to increased energy consumption and waste. It is essential to have your water heater inspected by professional plumbers as soon as possible to determine the problem and make any necessary repairs. The plumber will inspect the unit, identify the cause of the issue, and provide the appropriate maintenance.

Rusty or Smelly Water

Rust in your water indicates corrosion inside the tank which could lead to more severe problems if left unchecked. Additionally, if you notice a smell coming from your hot water, this could indicate bacteria growth within the tank and should be addressed immediately. 

Leaks Around The Tank

Look around for any puddles of moisture near or around the tank, as this could indicate leakage that needs immediate attention from professionals.

High Utility Bills

If the unit is not functioning correctly, it may require more energy to heat the water to the desired temperature, leading to increased energy consumption. Additionally, as the unit ages, its efficiency can decline, further contributing to increased energy costs. The typical lifespan of a water heater is 8-12 years, and it is essential to plan for repairs or replacements within this time frame. 

Temperature Fluctuations 

Suppose your hot water temperature fluctuates rapidly between too hot and too cold. In that case, this is an indication that there is an issue with the thermostat settings on your water heater. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the hot water temperature, and a malfunctioning or improperly set thermostat can result in inconsistent water temperatures. It affects the comfort of your hot water and can also be a safety hazard if the water temperature becomes too hot. 

Not Enough Hot Water

Not having enough hot water when you turn on the taps in your home can be frustrating and inconvenient. There could be several reasons for this, including an undersized water heater, high demand for hot water from multiple sources, or a malfunctioning component within the system. An undersized water heater means that it is not large enough to meet the hot water demands of your household, leading to a shortage of hot water. On the other hand, if multiple sources use hot water simultaneously, such as multiple showers, this can also cause a deficiency. Additionally, if components within the system are not functioning correctly, such as a faulty heating element or thermostat, this can also impact the hot water supply. Informing the 24 hours emergency plumber immediately can help solve the issue by providing you with ample hot water.

Concluding Words

Regular maintenance on your home’s hot-water system can save you both repair costs and energy bills over time. However, homeowners need to know what signs to look for indicating potential issues with their units so they can address them quickly before they become bigger problems. By familiarizing yourself with these warning signs, you’ll know what to watch out for and when to call a professional technician for servicing. With proactive maintenance, you can save yourself thousands of dollars (and headaches) in repairs later.

For regular maintenance and repairs of your water heater and other plumbing fixtures, contact NLK Plumbing. We also provide competent guttering services in Melbourne to help through any plumbing emergency.