On a long, stressful day at work, most of us come home looking forward to a relaxing hot shower. Just imagine how frustrating it would be to find out that your water heater isn’t creating hot water. Water heaters are an essential part of our home. It provides a supply of hot water in your homes whenever you need it — when bathing, washing hands, washing dishes etc.

Below are the signs that indicate that your water heater needs to be serviced.

• Inconsistent water temperature

The main purpose of your water heater is to provide you with hot water. If the water coming out of your faucet has an inconsistent temperature every time you use it, then obviously there is something wrong with the unit. Common causes of this issue are the mineral deposits that have accumulated and are blocking the heater’s heating element. 

• Strange sounds

Your water heater, like any other appliances, will produce little noise. This is the sound of the machine working and it’s natural. However, if you hear a loud banging or popping sound in your heater, then it is high time to call a professional to service it. This strange sound could be from the mineral building up inside your heater and may be solved by flushing out the water. Another possible cause could be from a broken dip tube causing cold and hot water to mix.

• Water discoloration

Your water heater is not immune to corrosion. Most of the time, the water heater corrodes due to old age. It is easy to notice rust outside the heater but if the corrosion starts inside the unit, water may become discolored with a rusty taste. However, it could also be from a corroded pipe. Finding the real source of the rusty water can be hard and getting help from a professional to determine the source of the issue is the best thing to do. 

• Water leaking

Water heater works by heating the water through the heating mechanism found at the bottom of the tank. Problems happen when there is too much pressure or heat in the unit that weakens the tank and ruptures it. You will know if your water tank is leaking if there is water pooling around the bottom of the water tank. A leaking water heater should be serviced as soon as possible as it can cause accidents. 

• Runs out of hot water fast

Your water heater is designed to provide hot water all throughout the duration that you are using it. So if your heater is doing the opposite, then it is best to call an expert plumber to fix it.

For more information on water heaters or if you’re having issues with your water heater, contact us at Woodbridge Plumbing!