Signs Your Hot Water Heater is in Need of Repair

Owning your own home also means performing your own maintenance checks. Sometimes these are simple and straightforward, sometimes there are subtle signs to watch out for. This includes knowing when major home appliances are in need of repair.

Your hot water heater is an essential part of your home. Naturally, you want to make sure it remains in good condition. There are some obvious signs that your hot water heater is in need of emergency maintenance. If there is a sudden puddle of water underneath the heater, or if you suddenly find yourself without hot water entirely, it is time to call a plumber ASAP. But, what are some things to look out for to prevent emergency repairs and replacements?
If you notice that your hot water is taking longer than usual to heat up, this could indicate a heating element starting to go bad. Another sign of a heating element issue is hot water running out quickly. This can also come in the form of your hot water simply coming out warm at best.
Another issue you could catch is a sediment build up in the unit. There are a couple of signs to watch for. First, if your unit is making a lot of noise when running, it is probably time to get it checked. These noises can be anything from some slight whining or wheezing sounds to loud clanking or pinging. You may also notice a sulfur or rotten egg smell suddenly coming from your hot water. If you are in a home that uses well water, a rotten egg smell may be normal. If this is the case, you will notice the smell in both the hot and cold water.
These issues are ones that you should get checked as soon as you notice them. If you wait, you may end up with an emergency repair or even replacement of your hot water heater. With the essential appliances in your home, it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid a higher bill for a bigger repair in the future.
Is the water heater in your Arlington home in need of maintenance? Call The Plumbing Doctor at 703-525-9280 and get started today!