The lukewarm shower in the morning that never heats up enough to feel comfortable. It may not be as bad as no hot water at all, but it’s not something you want to deal with. And you shouldn’t have to! When you can call up our team of experts in all things water heaters in Braselton, GA dedicated and highly skilled professionals focused on customer satisfaction, you can have the trouble fixed, whether it takes comprehensive heater repair or a system replacement.
To help you understand what may be going on with your water heater and what steps our technicians may need to take, we’ll go over a list of five common reasons for a water heater losing its volume of hot water.
Introduction to Common Water Heater Issues
Water heaters are a vital part of our daily routine, providing the hot water we rely on for showers, laundry, and cleaning. When a water heater starts to malfunction, it can quickly disrupt your day and create unnecessary inconvenience. Common water heater problems include strange noises coming from the tank, unexpected leaks, or a noticeable drop in hot water supply. Flushing your water heater annually helps remove sediment buildup, which can prevent these issues and maintain efficiency. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to bigger issues, such as water damage or a complete loss of hot water. That’s why it’s essential to address any malfunctioning water heater promptly whether it’s through repairs or considering a water heater replacement. Experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and fix water heater problems, helping you maintain energy efficiency and avoid costly disruptions. Keeping your water heater in top shape is not just
1. The aquastat is set too low
We’ll start with the simplest explanation: the aquastat (a.k.a. the thermostat for your water heater) is set too low for comfort. Normally it’s set between 120°F to 140°F. (It should never be over 140°F as it may create a scalding hazard.) Check the aquastat to see if, for some reason, it was set too low. Don’t raise it if it’s at a standard setting. To better understand how regular hot water heater maintenance can prevent such issues, see why water heaters need regular flushes.
2. A broken lower heating element
This only applies to electric water heaters. The tank of a water heater contains two heating elements to warm up the water. The lower element does most of the work as it heatest the coldest water and moves it upward to the second element. This makes the lower element more likely to burn out. If it does, you’ll abruptly find yourself with much colder water. To better understand how regular maintenance can prevent such issues, see why water heaters need regular flushes.
Gas water heaters, on the other hand, use a gas burner as their heating method, which can lead to different efficiency, safety, and installation considerations compared to electric models. Tankless water heaters eliminate the need to keep large volumes of water heated, offering a more energy-efficient solution for many households. They begin heating water instantly when a hot water tap is turned on, ensuring a continuous supply of hot water without the wait.
3. Broken dip tube
The dip tube is the inlet pipe that pushes cold water down into the water heater tank and to the tank bottom where it receives heat from the heat exchanger, then rises to the top of the tank where it’s then pumped out into the plumbing. If the tube breaks, it will deposit cold water at the top of the tank, mix with the hot water, and lower the heat of the water sent to the taps. Plumbers will need to replace the dip tube.
4. Sediment build-up
Sediment in the freshwater will start to settle along the bottom of the tank, and this will block the transfer of heat from the heat exchanger. Most tanks will have some sediment, but it won’t interfere with the water heater’s operation. If there’s too much build-up, however, not only will it block heat, but it will also lower the volume of hot water available in the tank. Homeowners should notice any signs of rust or corrosion on the tank, as these are visible indicators of internal damage and may mean the water heater needs replacement. For more on this, visit our post on how much money your old water heater might be costing you, you may discover how skipping routine water heater maintenance could be draining your budget more than you think.
5. Age
A storage tank water heater can last from 12 to 15 years effectively. When it gets older than this, however, it will begin to struggle to provide the same capacity of hot water and water temperature. Tankless water heaters provide an endless supply of hot water and can reduce your energy costs, making them a great alternative when replacing an older system. Learn how to prolong your water heater’s life by exploring the importance of flushing your water heater professionally. If you experience a drop in water temperature for an older system, this often means you need to get a new water heater.
Replacing an old water heater with a new, energy-efficient model, such as a tankless water heater can often be completed in a few hours. However, the total hours required may vary depending on the type of unit and the complexity of the installation process. In some cases, installation can take up to a full day. You can receive a detailed cost estimate before any water heater installation or replacement work begins. Water heater installation usually involves scheduling an appointment with a professional to ensure the process is handled efficiently and safely. Our experienced professionals handle every installation job efficiently, offering a full range of services in Lawrenceville, GA, including both residential and commercial Lawrenceville water heater installation and replacement. The installation process is straightforward and designed to minimize inconvenience for our customers.
We have certified technicians on all major brands and can help you get to the bottom of your water heater troubles. Reliable water heater repair services assess the heater and provide a cost estimate before starting work.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, your water heater is an essential part of your home, and keeping it running efficiently is key to enjoying a steady supply of hot water. By understanding the common issues that can affect water heaters and the different types available, such as traditional tank, tankless, and heat pump models, you’re better equipped to make smart decisions about repairs, replacement, or upgrades. An in-home estimate can help determine which water heater is most suitable based on your usage and preferences. If you’re experiencing problems with your water heater or think it might be time for a replacement, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumbing service in Lawrenceville, GA. A reliable team can provide prompt repairs, transparent pricing, and ongoing maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly. Don’t let a malfunctioning water heater interrupt your daily routine, take the extra mile to schedule regular maintenance and enjoy the benefits of an energy efficient, dependable water heater. With the right water heater and professional care, you can look forward to endless hot water and the convenience you deserve in your home.
At Snellville Heating, Air and Plumbing, Your Comfort Is OUR Business. Call us for water heater service when you need it.
770-982-9800
