A broken water heater can frustrate you and disrupt your daily routine. That’s why it’s important to know how to respond to heater emergencies. Understanding how to assess your heater damage can save you time and money.
Read on to learn how to resolve water heater issues and when to contact a professional.
Assess the Damage
You should first identify the issue during a water heater emergency. Here are some common problems that could happen:
- Leaking Tank: You should regularly inspect for signs of leakage. Turn off the supply if water pools around the base or drips from connections. You should also contact a professional immediately, since this can lead to costly repairs.
- Strange Noises: Banging or rumbling noises could indicate a malfunctioning heating element. Typically, the reason for this is sediment buildup. Ask for expert help since this could indicate a severe issue.
- Discolored Water: This can be potentially harmful to your skin. This generally happens when parts corrode, causing rust to enter your water supply. You can flush out your water heater to remove this. You may also need to replace parts if the color doesn’t change.
- Temperature Issues: Scalding water can be dangerous and indicate a faulty thermostat. On the other hand, lukewarm water points to a failing heating element. Both scenarios require professional attention.
- Water Output: While a lack of hot water is a concern, a complete lack of water output indicates a serious issue. The reasons could include a malfunctioning pressure relief valve or problems with the cold water inlet pipe. In these cases, calling a professional is essential.
- Pilot Light Issues: Avoid repeated attempts to relight your gas water heater’s pilot light if it won’t stay lit. Doing this can lead to dangerous gas buildup. Call an experienced electrician to resolve the issue.
Take Immediate Action
You should take immediate action once you’ve identified the issue. You can either repair it yourself or seek professional assistance. This decision should depend on the problem’s severity and your expertise level.
DIY Repairs
If you’re confident in your abilities, you can repair minor issues. But prioritize safety and follow manufacturer guidelines. You should locate your heater’s control panel and turn off the gas control knob. For electric ones, you can switch off the breaker in your house’s electrical panel.
You should also turn the shut-off valve clockwise to stop water intake. Stop your house’s main pipeline if you can’t locate the valve. You must also place towels or buckets to collect dripping water. This will reduce damage and make cleanup easier.
Professional Assistance
You should contact a licensed electrician or plumber if the issue is complex. They will have the skills and tools to fix problems efficiently. You shouldn’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re unsure about the repairs.
At Kazar’s Electric Inc., we understand the stress of dealing with water heater emergencies. Our team of skilled and licensed electricians can handle various water heater issues. Contact us or request a quote today!