Category Archives: water heater repair

Sep '23

What to Do When Your Water Heater Leaks

Water heaters are an essential appliance in any home, providing hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. However, like any other appliance, they can develop problems over time. One of the most common issues that homeowners face with their water heaters is a leak. A leaking water heater can not only result in a significant amount of water wastage but can also cause damage to the surrounding area and even your home. If you discover that your water heater is leaking, it’s essential to take immediate action to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your home and family.

Determine the Source of the Leak

The first step in dealing with a leaking water heater is to identify the source of the leak. This will help you understand the severity of the problem and determine if it’s something you can fix yourself or if you need to call a professional plumber. Here are some common areas where water heaters tend to leak:

Pressure Relief Valve: This valve is designed to release excess pressure in the tank. If it becomes faulty, it can cause water to leak.

Drain Valve: The drain valve is located at the bottom of the tank and is used to empty the tank for maintenance or repairs. If it’s loose or faulty, it can cause water to leak.

Corroded Tank: Over time, the tank can corrode, leading to small cracks or holes through which water can escape.

Connections: The fittings and connections around the water heater can become loose or damaged, resulting in leaks.

Shut Off the Power and Water Supply

Once you have identified the source of the leak, it’s crucial to shut off the power and water supply to the water heater to prevent any further damage. This will ensure your safety while you work to resolve the issue. Here’s how you can do it:

Electric Water Heater: Locate your electrical panel and turn off the circuit breaker that controls the water heater. If you have a gas water heater, turn the gas supply valve to the “off” position.

Water Supply Valve: Close the water supply valve located on the cold water inlet pipe. This will stop the flow of water into the tank.

It’s crucial to shut off the power and water supply to the water heater to prevent any further damage

Addressing the Leaks

Depending on the source of the leak, you can take different approaches to address and fix the problem. Here are some steps you can take:

Pressure Relief Valve Leak: If the pressure relief valve is leaking, it may indicate that the pressure in the tank is too high. You can try releasing some water from the valve to see if it stops the leak. However, if the problem persists, you may need to replace the valve.

Drain Valve Leak: If the drain valve is leaking, check if it’s loose. You can try tightening it with a wrench. If that doesn’t solve the issue, you may need to replace the valve.

Corroded Tank: If the tank is corroded and causing leaks, it’s likely that you will need to replace the water heater entirely. Corrosion is a sign of significant damage, and repairing it may not be a long-term solution.

Connections: If the connections around the water heater are leaking, you can try tightening them with a wrench. However, if the leakage continues, it’s best to call a local plumber to examine the fittings and make any necessary repairs.

Preventive Measures

To avoid water heater leaks in the future, there are a few preventive measures you can take:

Regular Maintenance: Schedule yearly inspections with a professional who can check for any signs of wear and tear and perform necessary maintenance tasks.

Temperature and Pressure Monitoring: Keep an eye on the temperature and pressure settings of your water heater. Excessive pressure can lead to leaks, so ensure they are within the recommended range.

Replace Anode Rods: Anode rods are sacrificial rods that attract corrosive elements and protect the tank from rust. Over time, these rods can deteriorate, so it’s important to have them replaced as needed.

Consider a Water Softener: If you live in an area with hard water, the minerals in the water can contribute to the corrosion of your water heater. Installing a water softener can help minimize the impact of these minerals.

plumber replacing a water heater in chicago.

When in doubt, always seek the guidance of a professional plumber to ensure the safety and efficiency of your water heater.

When to Call a Professional

While you may be able to address some minor water heater leaks on your own, it’s crucial to know when to call a professional plumber. Here are some situations where professional assistance is recommended:

Major Leaks: If the leak is substantial or causes water to accumulate rapidly, it’s best to turn off the water supply and seek professional help immediately.

Gas Water Heater: If you have a gas water heater and you suspect a gas leak along with the water leak, evacuate your home and call a professional immediately.

No Hot Water: If your water heater is leaking and you’re experiencing a lack of hot water, it may be an indication of a more significant underlying issue that requires professional attention.

Not Comfortable Fixing It Yourself: If you don’t have the necessary tools, knowledge, or confidence to fix the issue yourself, it’s always better to rely on a plumber who can repair your water heater.

In Conclusion

Discovering a water heater leak can be a stressful situation, but by following the appropriate steps, you can effectively address the issue and minimize damage. Remember to shut off the power and water supply, determine the source of the leak, and take the necessary actions to fix the problem. Regular maintenance and preventive measures can also help prevent water heater leaks in the future. And, when in doubt, always seek the guidance of a professional plumber to ensure the safety and efficiency of your water heater.

Jul '23

What’s Wrong With My Water Heater?

In every household, a water heater plays a crucial role in providing hot water for various needs such as showers, dishwashing, and laundry. However, when our water heater starts to malfunction, it can lead to inconveniences and disrupt our daily routines. Understanding the common problems that may arise with water heaters can help you diagnose the issue and determine the appropriate course of action. In this article, we will explore some of the most frequent issues encountered with water heaters and discuss possible solutions.

Lack of Hot Water

If you find yourself getting only cold water from your water heater, it indicates a problem that needs to be addressed. Several factors can lead to a lack of hot water:

The pilot light might be extinguished: Check if the pilot light is on. If it’s not, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions.

A faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple is responsible for sensing if the pilot light is ignited. If it’s defective, it may shut off the gas supply. Consider replacing it.

A broken heating element or a malfunctioning thermostat: Electric water heaters use heating elements to warm the water. If they are damaged, they need to be replaced. Faulty thermostats can also prevent water from heating properly.

Strange Noises Coming from the Water Heater

If you hear unusual sounds coming from your water heater, it’s an indication that something is amiss:

Sediment buildup: Over time, minerals and sediments can accumulate inside the tank, causing rumbling or popping noises. Flushing the tank periodically can help prevent this issue.

A loose heating element: If you have an electric water heater, a loose heating element could create a humming or vibrating sound. Tightening or replacing the element may solve the problem.

A faulty expansion valve: The expansion valve is responsible for controlling the pressure inside the tank. A malfunctioning valve can result in a high-pitched whistling or hissing noise. Replacing the valve may be necessary.

he drain valve at the bottom of the tank is used for emptying or flushing. If it becomes loose or has a faulty seal, it can cause water to leak.

Water Leakage

Water leakage is a common issue in water heaters that requires prompt attention. The causes of leakage can include:

A faulty temperature and pressure relief valve: If this valve malfunctions, excess pressure can build up inside the tank, leading to leakage. Replacing the valve can resolve the problem.

A leaking drain valve: The drain valve at the bottom of the tank is used for emptying or flushing. If it becomes loose or has a faulty seal, it can cause water to leak. Tightening or replacing the valve may be necessary.

A crack or corrosion in the tank: In certain cases, the water heater tank itself may develop a crack or corrosion, resulting in leakage. Unfortunately, in such instances, replacing the entire water heater might be the only solution.

Discolored or Foul-Smelling Water

If you notice that the water coming from your water heater is discolored or has an unpleasant odor, you should address the issue immediately:

Sediment buildup: A high concentration of minerals and sediment in the water can cause discoloration. Flushing the tank can help resolve this problem.

Anode rod corrosion: The sacrificial anode rod in the water heater is designed to attract corrosive elements that would otherwise damage the tank. If the rod is fully depleted, the tank can begin to corrode, leading to foul-smelling water. Replacing the anode rod can fix this issue.

Bacterial growth: Sometimes, certain bacteria can thrive in the warm environment of a water heater, resulting in a musty or rotten egg smell. Flushing the tank with a hydrogen peroxide solution can help eliminate the bacteria.

a person experiencing low water pressure.

Accumulated sediment can clog the water lines, affecting the water pressure.

Inadequate Water Pressure

If your water heater isn’t providing sufficient water pressure, consider the following possibilities:

A restricting valve: Some water heaters have a valve that controls the flow of hot water. If it isn’t fully opened, it can affect the water pressure. Make sure the valve is completely open.

Sediment buildup: Accumulated sediment can clog the water lines, affecting the water pressure. Flushing the tank may help remove the sediment and improve the pressure.

A malfunctioning pressure regulator: If your home has a pressure regulator, it could be faulty, leading to low water pressure. Contact a plumber near you to inspect and replace the regulator if necessary.

Conclusion

Water heater problems can cause significant inconvenience, but many issues can be resolved with proper troubleshooting and maintenance. Regularly inspecting your water heater, performing maintenance tasks, such as flushing the tank, and promptly addressing any problems can help ensure the efficient and reliable operation of your water heater. However, if you are uncertain about the cause of the issue or feel uncomfortable performing repairs, it is always advisable to seek professional assistance from a local plumber.

Jun '23

Repair or Replace? Chicago Plumbing Experts’ Guide to Fixing Faulty Water Heaters

As a homeowner in Chicago, there are various plumbing issues you may face, one of which is a faulty water heater. A water heater is a critical appliance in your home that provides hot water for various uses, including bathing, laundry, and washing dishes, among others. When your water heater is not functioning correctly, you need to decide whether to repair it or replace it. In this plumbing expert guide, we explore the factors to consider when making the repair or replace decision for your water heater.

Assessing the Situation

Before deciding whether to repair or replace your water heater, you need to assess the situation accurately. Some of the essential factors to consider include the age and condition of the water heater, the extent of the damage, and the cost of repair compared to replacement.

Age and Condition of the Water Heater

As a rule of thumb, a typical water heater lasts for about ten years. However, the lifespan of your water heater may vary depending on various factors such as frequency of use, maintenance, and the quality of the water in your area. If your water heater is over ten years old, it may be time to replace it regardless of its current condition. In some cases, a well-maintained water heater can last beyond the ten-year mark, but it’s essential to have a local plumber assess its condition to determine whether it’s worth repairing or replacing.

Extent of the Damage

The extent of the damage on your water heater is another critical factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace it. Some issues may be minor and easily fixable, while others may require a complete replacement of the water heater. If the damage is minor, you may be able to repair it for an affordable cost. However, if the damage is severe, such as a leaking tank, you may need to replace the unit entirely.

If your water heater is not producing hot water, the issue may be due to a faulty heating element, thermostat, or gas valve. A plumber can diagnose the issue and determine whether repairing or replacing these components is necessary.

Cost of Repair vs. Replacement

The cost of repair versus replacement is another important consideration when deciding whether to repair or replace your water heater. In some cases, repairing your water heater may cost less than replacing it. However, if the repairs are costly or the unit is old and likely to fail again soon, a replacement may be a better option in the long run.

Common Water Heater Issues

To help you make an informed decision, it’s essential to know the common issues that cause your water heater to fail. Here are some of the most common problems you may encounter:

1. Lack of Hot Water

2. Leakages

Leaks from your water heater can be due to various issues such as cracks, corrosion, or faulty fittings. If the leak is minor, a plumber may be able to repair the leak. However, if the damage is extensive, a replacement of the entire tank may be necessary.

3. Strange Noises

If your water heater makes strange noises such as popping or rumbling, it may be due to sediment buildup in the tank. A plumber can flush the tank to remove the sediment and prevent further damage to your water heater.

4. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Inconsistent water temperature can be a sign of a malfunctioning thermostat. A plumber can diagnose the issue and determine whether repairing or replacing the thermostat is necessary.

5. Discolored Water

If your hot water has a distinctive discoloration such as a rusty brown or yellow tint, it may be due to corrosion in your tank. A plumber can assess the situation and determine whether you need to replace your water heater tank altogether.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when faced with a faulty water heater, you need to assess the situation accurately before deciding whether to repair or replace it. Consider factors such as the age and condition of the water heater, extent of the damage, and cost of repair versus replacement. By knowing the common issues that cause water heaters to fail, you can make an informed decision that will ensure you have reliable hot water in your home. Remember to speak with a plumbing expert in Chicago whenever you encounter water heater problems to ensure the best solutions to any issue.

Jan '23

What to Do When your Water Heater Breaks?

Although it doesn’t happen often, water heaters sometimes break, and when they do, they can cause massive damage to your home. If this problem happens and you don’t know how to handle it, you will not only be looking at the cost of fixing extensive water damage to your home but may also be exposed to the risk of electric shock or gas fire, warns Florida Property Management.

What do you do when your water heater breaks? Whether you are dealing with this issue right now and looking for guidance on how to tackle the problem or trying to update your level of emergency preparedness, this post will help you.

The steps below will teach you how to minimize the damage a broken water heater can do to your home.

Step one: Turn off the water supply

Your water heater has a cold water inlet pipe and a hot water outlet pipe. These two pipes are often located on the top of the water heater. You can identify the cold water supply line by the shut-off valve (usually a ball valve) on it. The arm of this valve will typically be in a position where it lines up with the cold water inlet pipe; this is the open position.

You want to turn the valve clockwise until the arm is perpendicular (ninety degrees) to the cold water pipe. If your cold water pipe has a gate valve instead, turning it to the right should close it. This step will keep more water from flowing into the tank and flooding your home.

Step two: Turn off the power or fuel

The next thing is to eliminate the risk of a gas fire or electric shock. You want to cut the power supply by turning the circuit breaker off if this is an electric water heater. For gas-powered water heaters, look for a dial on the top of the water heater and turn it until it is in a horizontal position (ninety degrees). If you cannot find the valve, turn off the gas at the gas line leading to your water heater.

There is a huge risk of electrocution when a water heater leaks. Please get in touch with your plumber if you are unsure how to turn off the power on an electric water heater. Also, if there is a gas smell in the room, even after you shut off the gas, please call a professional plumber.

Step three: Empty the water heater tank

At this point, you have turned off the water supply to the water heater and shut off the electricity or gas. But water is still coming from the tank onto the floor of your home. You want to get your garden hose and fix it to the drainage valve at the bottom of the water heater. Make sure the connection is tight, and then open the drainage valve.

You will need a screwdriver to open it if it is a ball valve. But you should be able to turn it by hand if it is a gate valve. Ensure the other end of the hose is at a low spot in your home where the water can be released safely. Open the T&P valve of the water heater to let air into the tank and help the water flow out of the tank freely.

Step four: Start cleanup

Once the above steps are completed, you can wait for your plumber to arrive. While you wait for the plumber, you may begin the cleanup process. The sooner you start this, the lower your repair costs will be. However, it is essential that you create a visual record of the damage caused by the event before you start the cleanup. This will be vital for filing your insurance claims.

Take detailed photos of the water heater’s damage to your home; floors, walls, furniture, etc. After, you may proceed to remove the salvageable items from the area. Depending on how long the leak had been going before you discovered it, you may be able to remove the water with a mop or have to rent a wet/dry vacuum. If necessary, hire a water damage restoration expert to handle the cleanup.

Step Five; File an insurance claim

Unless the accident happened because of your negligence (maybe you had prior warnings of the issues with your water heater), your insurance homeowners’ insurance should cover the cost of replacing the damaged items and fixing your home.

Even if the damage was minimal and you did not suffer any losses, you should still inform your insurer. The company will send an adjuster to your home to determine the cause of the accident and quantify the losses.

Sep '22

Troubleshooting an Electric Water Heater

Are you having trouble with your electric water heater and trying to figure out the problem? Water heater repairs are a big headache, and they can throw your entire home out of order. As JTS Management points out, knowing how to detect the root of the problem when a water heater malfunctions can be a great help.

How do you troubleshoot a water heater if it is not working? To do that, you must be familiar with the water heater’s components. You also need a step-by-step process for checking the water heater. This post provides the information you need to do all of these.

How to troubleshoot an electric water heater

Part one: Testing the water heater elements

Step one: Shut off the power

You need to locate the breaker that says “water heater,” “tank,” or “HWT” inside your circuit breaker box and flip it to the off position. You may also want to unplug the water heater from the wall if you can see the power outlet where it is plugged in.

Step two: Open the access panels

Remove the covers of the upper and lower access panels to reveal the element and thermostat. After you do this, you will want to remove the insulation. After, carefully remove the plastic cover over the part and thermostat.

Step three: Check that power is off

Before figuring out the problem with your water heater, you need to verify that the power is off. To do this, touch the electric wires inside the access panels with a volt-stick. If there is power in the water heater, the volt-stick will light up.

Step four: Test the upper element

Remove the two wires connected to the upper element and then do a resistance test to see if the upper part is working. For this, you will need a voltmeter. Simultaneously touch the voltmeter probes to the two terminals on the upper element where the wires were attached: one probe to one screw and the other probe to the second screw. If the meter registers resistance, the element is fine, but you need to replace the part if it registers no resistance.

Step five: Test the lower element

Repeat the above steps with the lower element

Step six: Test for grounded element

This test follows the same process as the ones already done. You will need the voltmeter, but you want to set it to ohms this time. Touch the probe to one of the terminals on the element and, instead of the other terminal, touch the second probe to the steel surface on the inner wall of the water heater behind the element. If the element is in good condition, the voltmeter will not register any resistance. If the voltmeter reads resistance, the element is grounded and needs to be replaced.

Part two: Testing the thermostat

The thermostat controls the heating element in the water heater. The thermostat maintains water temperature inside the tank by opening or closing the contacts that allow power to flow to the elements. If a water heater has two heating elements, it will also have two thermostats.

When testing the water heater thermostat for defects, you are looking for continuity. This is a continuous electrical path that should be present within the device. If there is no continuity, the thermostat is damaged and needs to be replaced. Here is how to test the thermostat in a water heater.

Step one: Getting ready

You will need a multimeter for this test. If using an analog multimeter, set the dial to the lowest level for ohms of resistance. Calibrate the meter by pinching the needles together and adjusting the needle to read zero. If using a digital multimeter, rotate the dial to the lowest level for ohms of resistance or resistance with tone.

Step two: Check the power supply and remove the access panel cover

Follow steps two and three in Part One above.

Step three: Reset the thermostat

The upper thermostat has a reset button; this can trip if the water in the tank is overheating. Overheating is often caused by thermostat contacts that have fused, shorted heating elements, or the thermostat is out of calibration. Push the reset button to reset the thermostat.

Step four: Test the thermostat

Isolate the thermostat from the circuit by disconnecting the wires. Note the position of each wire before you do this. Next, touch one multimeter probe to one left side terminal on the thermostat and the other probe to the other left side terminal. For digital meters, the thermostat is okay if the reading is zero (or almost zero) ohms. But if using an analog meter and there is no movement in the needle, the thermostat has no continuity and should be replaced. If all else fails, call a plumber for an electric water heater repair. In some cases a replacement may be in order.

Dec '21

Reasons Your Hot Water Heater is Not Working and How to Fix

Water heaters are one of the most used appliances in the home. They are the reason you can turn the tap and expect an instant supply of warm water. Water heaters make everyday household activities like taking a shower, washing the dishes, or doing the laundry so much easier.

This is why water heater malfunctions can be so utterly disruptive to your lifestyle. Until it breaks down, most of the time your water heater does its work unnoticed in an out-of-the-way corner of the home. The only water heater that gets attention is one that is not working.

But why do water heater malfunctions happen? How can you detect small issues with the water heater before they become big problems? What are the most common water heater malfunctions and how can you avoid or fix them? Find the answers to these questions in this post.

5 common water heater problems and what to do about them

Insufficient or extremely hot water

Sometimes a water heater will not produce enough hot water or the water is too hot. This is a fairly common problem. To fix it, go to the water heater tank and adjust the thermostat. You may have turned the thermostat down during the summer (to save energy) but forgot to turn it up in winter. Thermostat settings may also change if the water heater is bumped accidentally. If the water temperature doesn’t change after you do this, you may need to replace the thermostat.

A water heater will also have water temperature issues if the tank is leaking, the temperature relief valve has stopped working, the gas control or burner assembly is damaged, or there are mineral deposits in the tank. Temperature-pressure relief valves are easily replaced. You can flush the tank to get rid of deposits. But if the tank is leaking, it is probably time to get a new water heater.

Discolored water

Water discoloration is often caused by a high iron and copper content in the water. If the water in your area has a high mineral content, it will cause problems in the components of the plumbing system and the water heater. You may have issues with lime deposits in pipes, showerheads, and taps. This will show up as scaling inside the water heater, washing machine, and dishwasher. If scale builds up long enough inside a water heater, the appliance will start producing discolored water.

Water discoloration is mostly caused by rust (which is accelerated by scale deposits) or anode rod issues. Depending on how soon you detect the problem, it can easily be fixed, that is if the issue is from the anode rod. If the water from the municipality has high mineral content, you can solve it by installing a whole house water filter or water softener.

Smelly water

Water coming from the water heater may have a bad odor, smell of rotten eggs, sewage, or garlic. If this issue is not noticed with all the faucets in the entire home, it may not be from the water heater. Sometimes water will become smelly if it has not been used for a long time. Running the taps in your home for a while will solve the problem.

If this doesn’t resolve the situation, the water heater could be the cause. Rotten egg and sewage smells are caused by heavy bacteria growth inside the tank. This can be fixed by flushing the tank. A garlic-like smell means you need to relight the pilot light. Gas line damage will also cause a strong smell. If the problem persists, get an expert to inspect the appliance.

Strange noises from the water heater

A noisy water heater may be suffering from excessive mineral buildup and sedimentation. Mineral buildup comes from the water and, as already explained, is worse in areas with hard water. Sedimentation may also happen as a result of issues with the heating element. If you hear the sound of boiling water from the water heater, the system is dangerously overheating due to extreme pressures inside the tank. You need a professional plumber to fix these kinds of problems.

Leaking water heater

Leaks can happen in different parts of the water heater. Leaks caused by a loose in-line valve are easily fixed. This is the valve that controls the flow of water in and out of the tank. To fix the problem, simply tighten the nut that holds the valve in place. If the leak gets worse, you may need another in-line valve. Pressure relief valves can also leak, but they are also easy to replace.

In addition to the above, the water heater may leak because of age, bad plumbing connections, poor maintenance, corrosion, and too much pressure inside the tank. If you find that water pools near the water heater or there is dripping water from the unit, you have a leak. Most of the time, leaks from the water heater tank means your water heater needs to be replaced.