Best Water Heater Repair Services
When your water heater goes on the fritz, it can really throw a wrench into your day-to-day routine. The good news is that many of the most common problems can be fixed by a licensed plumber. The bad news is that there will come a time when servicing your water heater becomes more expensive than just replacing it with a new unit. The best way to avoid this scenario is to recognize when it’s time for a replacement instead of trying to prolong the life of an older water heater.
If you’re not sure when to replace your current water heater repair, there are a few signs that can help you make the decision. A leaking water heater, for example, is not only a sign of a larger problem but can lead to costly flooding in your home and property. A leaking water heater can also cost you money on your energy bill as well.
Some of the most common issues a water heater can experience are a lack of hot water, strange noises coming from the water heater, and rusty water. These problems are often caused by the heater aging or by physical damage to the unit. In order to fix these issues, a plumber will need to examine the heater for signs of damage or wear and tear. If there are no visible signs of damage or wear, a plumber can simply flush the unit and restore it to proper working condition.
How to Recognize the Best Water Heater Repair Services
A gas water heater that is in need of repair should be repaired as soon as possible. There are several potential fire hazards associated with a gas water heater. These issues can include a failing thermocouple or a malfunctioning gas control valve. A faulty thermocouple will often cause the pilot light to go out. If the pilot light goes out, you should turn off the gas supply to your water heater and contact a plumber.
On the other hand, a faulty gas water heater may also produce carbon monoxide which is a serious health concern. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled. If you notice that your gas water heater is making unusual noises, has an odd odor, or is producing excessive carbon monoxide, it’s important to have it inspected by a plumber immediately.
Another potential issue is a faulty dip tube. The dip tube is a small pipe that transfers cool water from the top of the tank down to the bottom, where it can be reheated. If the dip tube fails, it can allow cold water to mix with the hot water and reduce the overall temperature of your hot water. Replacing a dip tube can be a relatively inexpensive water heater repair.
There are other, more significant repairs that can be made to a water heater. These can include leaks from the pressure relief valve, drain valve, or cold and hot water connections. In most cases, the leaks are due to loose fittings or deteriorating gaskets. Leaks that occur in a crawlspace or in concealed pipes can be more expensive to repair as they require more labor hours and may involve drywall work.