Water Heater Troubleshooting Guide

While scheduling water heater repair service is the best way to diagnose and address water heater problems, there are steps you can take to get an idea of what’s wrong. Here at Rooter Man Plumbing, we’ve seen it all when it comes to water heater problems and have provided effective solutions to both homeowners and businesses. Today, we’ll walk you through the troubleshooting steps for various common water heater issues.

• No Hot Water

If you're not getting hot water, check the thermostat to ensure it is set to a temperature higher than your desired water temperature. If your water heater uses gas, verify that the pilot light is lit. Sediment buildup in a water heater tank can also reduce hot water supply, so flushing the tank may be necessary. If the issue persists, a faulty heating element or other internal component might be the culprit. Get in touch with a professional plumbing repair service to inspect your water heater and restore proper functioning.

• Strange Noises

The common culprit behind popping or banging noises in water heaters is sediment buildup. Flushing the tank can help resolve this issue. It’s advisable to flush your water heater tank at least once every year to prevent sediment buildup. If the noises continue after flushing the tank, loose components or normal expansion and contraction of the tank might be the cause. It’s never a good idea to repair a noisy water heater yourself, unless you’re a professional plumber. Instead, reach out to a plumbing company specializing in water heater repair in University Place for help.

• Water Too Hot

If your water is coming out too hot, it's likely that the thermostat is set too high. Adjust the thermostat to a lower temperature to achieve your desired water temperature. If the issue persists, it might be a sign of a malfunctioning temperature sensor or a problem with the heating element. In these cases, it's recommended to contact a professional plumber in Tacoma for further diagnosis and water heater repair.

• Leaks

Leaks can occur due to a faulty pressure relief valve, corrosion, or loose connections. Inspect the valves for leaks and tighten any loose connections. If you find signs of corrosion, you’ll want to consider a water heater replacement. It’s only a matter of time before a corroded water heater tank springs a leak and causes water damage.

• Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

If your gas water heater's pilot light keeps going out, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. To resolve this issue, start by checking for air leaks in the gas line and ensuring the pilot light assembly is securely connected. A dirty burner can also prevent the pilot light from staying lit, so clean it carefully. If the problem persists, check the gas pressure to ensure it's adequate. If these steps don't solve the issue, call a nearby plumbing service to replace the faulty pilot light assembly. Also, ensure the vent is clear of obstructions to allow for proper airflow.

Need tankless water heater installation or repair? Trust the pros at Rooter Man Plumbing. With over 40 years of experience, we are the plumbing contractor you can trust to provide top-quality water heater services.