If you’ve ever been looking forward to a nice, hot shower, only to find that there was no hot water, you know how frustrating it can be when a hot water heater fails. While it may seem quite random it usually isn’t. You get plenty of clues about When to repair or replace your hotwater heater, you might just be ignoring them. Read on to learn about the important clues that your water heater is giving you.
Reddish Tinge to the Water
If you fill your tub or sink and wonder whether your water seems to be a bit off-color. You could be noticing the red tinge that comes from rust. If you suspect your water is not the correct color, call for help. If you ignore this important clue the bottom can literally fall out, resulting in a small flood.
Water is Not as Hot as It Used to Be or Doesn’t Heat Up
If your hot water is not as hot as you remember it being in the past, it could be a sign that your hot water heater is failing. Often the decrease in temperature will be slow, but you will definitely notice it. When you turn on the hot water and all that comes out is cold, it’s a sure sign that your tank needs to be repaired or replaced. In some cases, it can simply mean that the pilot has gone out and needs lighting again. In other cases, it may mean that a new hot water tank is in your future.
Leaking Tank and Water Has a Strange Smell and Oder
If you see water around your tank, it’s a sign that something is not right. Even small drips should be taken seriously as they can quickly give way to large gushes of water. If you notice that your water has a metallic smell, or taste, it’s time to get your water heater replaced. That metallic taste and smell is caused by the breakdown of the materials that make up the tank.
Strange Sounds and the Pilot Keeps Going Out
The water heater making strange sounds is usually an easy clue for the homeowner to pick up on. If you notice that the tank begins making hissing or popping sounds, have the tank checked out. A pilot light may go out from time to time, however, it should be easy to light. If your pilot light keeps going out as you light it, that is a sure sign that something is wrong. The thermocouple on your tank could need to be replaced.
Now that you know many of the signs that your water heater gives when there is trouble, you are equipped to call for help before it fails completely. Hopefully, by paying attention to your water heater you can avoid stepping into a cold shower. When you notice any of the above signs, get your water heater checked out by a trained professional.
