Water heaters are simple devices that have made modern day living a lot more comfortable than it would be without them. Water heaters do not last forever. Spotting a malfunctioning water heater is easily accomplished by just about anyone but repair and replacement needs to be left to a licensed plumbing specialist.
If your hot water has a peculiar odor and or a metallic taste it could mean that your water heater has a substantial buildup of minerals in the primary tank area. If you water heater is powered by gas then the peculiar odor could be caused by a gas leak and needs to be seen to immediately.
Leaking pipes or water puddles around your water heater are serious signs that your water heater is done for and needs to be replaced. Water damage is very costly and failure to correct this problem can result in severe damage to the structure of your home.
If you hear any strange noises coming from your hot water heater such as crackling or popping then you probably have a large amount of mineral buildup in the main water tank. This usually happens in areas where the water has a high amount of minerals and sediment. Some people say this noise sounds like gravel being rolled around in a large barrel and essentially this comparison is correct because the mineral buildup in your water tank takes the form of irregular pebbles and sheets.
If your hot water turns red or looks dirty then the inside of the heaters tank has probably rusted to the point the water heater needs to be replaced. Rust is lethal to hot water heaters and is the primary cause of malfunction. If your hot water starts looking muddy then you probably need to have your water tank flushed by a professional before the buildup causes serious problems that will result in having to replace the hot water heater.
If your hot water is not as hot as it used to be this is usually because one or more of the heating elements has failed. Hot water heaters have an average life span of 8-15 years. If yours is reaching that point in its lifespan, you should keep a close watch on it to prevent serious water damage to your home.
For all your water heater repairs and installation needs call Griswold Plumbing, LLC today at 860-554-5219! Proudly servicing the Connecticut (CT) area.