It’s easy to overlook a lukewarm shower or hot water that doesn’t come fast enough, but these may actually be two of the first signs you’ll notice that there’s something wrong with your water heater.
Sure, it’s working OK for now – but how long will that last is anyone’s guess. Fortunately, water heaters rarely die without giving some sort of sign that something’s seriously wrong. You might not notice that lukewarm shower as much over time, but there are other signs you simply can’t ignore.
1. You Run Out of Hot Water Quickly
It might take a while for your shower to heat up, but unless the hot water keeps flowing, you might not think twice about your water heater. So, what if a steamy morning shower suddenly turns into a frigid rude awakening? That can be a sign that your water heater isn’t making enough hot water, which could be a problem with anything from its settings to its heating components. There can even be a leak somewhere in your hot water supply!
2. There’s Water Near Your Water Heater
Your water heater should never leak, so any pools of water or dripping coming from it can be a sign of anything from loose-fitting pipes to excessive pressure or a structural failure of your tank. Don’t ignore this sign! Call a technician for help with repairs or a replacement of your water heater.
3. You Can See Discolored Water
If your water appears slightly brown or orange when you turn on the hot water, this can be a sign that your water heater is rusting. These appliances are only expected to last reliably for 10-22 years, so you may only encounter a rusting tank with an older appliance. At this point, the best thing to do is replace your water heater with a new one.
4. Your Water Heater Makes Strange Sounds
You might hear some sounds when your water heater is working correctly, but you shouldn’t be hearing anything that clangs, bags, whistles, cracks, or pops. You might be familiar with the low rumbling that a healthy water heater can make, but any sharper, louder, or more sudden sounds can be a sign that something inside isn’t working as it should work.
5. Your Water Smells Like Sulfur
Sulfur smells like rotten eggs, which is never what you want your water to smell like. While this can be a problem with the water supply, your water heater can be to blame if you only notice this smell when you turn on your hot water.
In this case, it can be a sign that the water heater tank’s anode rod is broken. This component kills bacteria and removes rust. Without it, you can experience foul-smelling water coming from your water heater.
Contact Us for an Inspection Today!
If you suspect there’s a problem with your water heater, don’t hesitate to reach out to Carter Quality Plumbing, LLC for an inspection. After assessing the situation and diagnosing what’s wrong with your water heater, we can provide the high-quality repair or replacement services you need to put this problem behind you!
For more information about our water heater services, contact Carter Quality Plumbing, LLC today!