Common Water Heater Problems
Learn to identify common issues and understand when it's time to call a professional.
No Hot Water
One of the most obvious problems is a complete lack of hot water. This could indicate a failed heating element, a tripped circuit breaker, or a faulty thermostat. Gas units might have a failed pilot light or gas supply issue.
Solution: Check the circuit breaker first. If it hasn't tripped, the issue likely requires professional diagnosis. Schedule service today.
Insufficient Hot Water
If your hot water runs out too quickly, sediment buildup in the tank could be reducing its capacity. Electric heaters might have a failing upper heating element, while gas units could have a burner problem.
Solution: Try flushing the tank to remove sediment. If the problem persists, the tank may need professional inspection or replacement. Contact us for help.
Rust-Colored Water
Brown or rust-colored hot water usually indicates corrosion inside your tank. This is a serious sign that your water heater is failing and could start leaking soon.
Warning: This often means the tank is corroding from the inside. Call us immediately for inspection. Replacement is usually the best option.
Strange Noises
Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds from your water heater usually indicate severe sediment buildup. As sediment heats up and explodes, it creates these sounds and damages the tank lining.
Solution: Flush the tank immediately. If noises continue, the tank may be beyond repair. Call us for assessment.
Water Leaks
Water pooling around your water heater can come from several sources: a cracked tank, failing inlet/outlet connections, a leaky temperature-pressure relief valve, or loose fittings.
Warning: A leaking tank will only get worse. Turn off the water supply and call us immediately for emergency service.
Water Temperature Fluctuations
If your water temperature changes randomly during use, the thermostat may be failing, the dip tube might be broken (allowing cold and hot water to mix), or sediment is affecting heating efficiency.
Solution: This often requires professional diagnosis. The dip tube is a common culprit and relatively inexpensive to replace. Schedule an appointment.
Foul Odor
A rotten egg smell from your hot water usually indicates bacteria in the tank. This is more common in water heaters that haven't been used regularly or with certain water supplies.
Solution: Drain and flush the tank, then raise the temperature to 140°F to kill bacteria. Contact us for professional flushing and treatment.
Pilot Light Won't Stay Lit
Gas water heater pilot lights that keep going out could have a faulty thermocouple, draft issues, or gas valve problems. This requires immediate attention for safety reasons.
Safety Warning: Never try to repair gas issues yourself. Call us immediately for gas water heater service.
Not Sure What's Wrong?
Our certified technicians can diagnose any water heater problem quickly and provide honest recommendations.