Most signs of water heater failure are readily apparent, and all mean that a plumber should be called as soon as possible. Many notice water heater issues when their morning shower isn’t as hot as it could be, but there are other signs to look for as well. In this guide, homeowners can learn what to look for when the water heater is ready to fail.
Rusty, Dirty Water
Rust or dirt in the water may be a result of leaking or corrosion in the pipes, the heating element, or the tank itself. Rust is the silent killer of tank-style hot water heaters in Springfield NJ, and minerals found in most water supplies can eat away at steel. The high temps accelerate corrosion, producing significant amounts of rust. When the rust starts coming out of the tank’s top, it’s time for a replacement unit.
Sediment
The texture and color of sediment may vary according to location, but it’s there unless the tank has regularly been flushed. The minerals in tap water can form sediment in the bottom of the water heater tank, which can appear in showers and sink aerators. If this is happening, the homeowner should call a plumber for a tune-up right away.
Strange Popping and Crackling Noises
Odd noises coming from the water heater are another sign of mineral buildup that occurs after years of heating and cooling cycles. As water gets hot, it expands and hits the mineral deposits inside the tank, causing strange noises. This not only makes hot water smell funny, it can lead to metal fatigue and corrosion.
Metallic, Odd-Smelling Water
If the water in the home starts to have an odd metallic smell, that’s a sure sign of impending failure of hot water heaters in Springfield NJ. In this case, the mineral buildup in the tank has reached a critical level. It’s not to be confused with a rotting egg smell, which typically indicates a gas leak. In either case, the homeowner should call a plumber immediately.
Leakage
This is the most evident sign of water heater trouble. Water collection around the unit means that the tank is so corroded that failure is certain. If the tank has reached this stage, the homeowner should Contact us for emergency service. Tanks in this condition cannot be fixed, meaning the entire unit must be replaced.
