10 Common Water Heater Problems and Solutions

A water heater that isn't producing hot water may either not be receiving power, have a tripped limit switch, or have one or more malfunctioning heating elements.

First, inspect the circuit breaker for the water heater in the service panel to make sure it hasn’t tripped. If it has, switch it off and then back on. If the breaker is functioning properly, reset the high-temperature limit on the heater by turning off the power at the service panel, removing the access panel, and pressing the high-temperature reset button, which is typically red.

Inadequate Hot Water

Your water heater might be providing insufficient hot water. The water could be adequately hot but only in small amounts, or the amount might be sufficient but the water is lukewarm.

For hot water with low volume: This issue may be due to a malfunctioning heating element. If the hot water runs out quickly, it could indicate a problem with the lower heating element. This type of repair should be handled by a professional who can replace the faulty elements or the entire heater.

For tepid water with normal volume: If the heater provides enough water but it's only lukewarm, sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank might be the issue. To fix this, flush out the tank to remove sediment and then refill it.

Water Is Too Hot

Excessively hot water usually indicates that one or both thermostats on the water heater are set too high. To address this issue:

1.Turn off the power to the water heater at the service panel.

2.Remove the access panel.

3.Verify that the temperature setting on both thermostats does not exceed 120°F.

4.Adjust the settings to the desired temperature by turning the set screw with a flathead screwdriver.

5.Replace the access panel and restore power to the heater.

Hot Water Leaking

Leaks in a water heater are commonly due to faulty valves or plumbing connections. If you notice warm or hot water around the area, it’s probably due to a leaking outlet pipe.

Check the water heater for any loose inlet or outlet pipes. If you find any loose connections, use a wrench to tighten them and stop the leak.

Rusty or Smelly Water

If you notice brown, yellow, or red-colored water coming from your faucets, it might indicate internal corrosion in the water heater tank. A rotten egg smell suggests the presence of bacteria in the tank.

To address these issues, have a plumber replace the anode rod in the water heater. The anode rod, located in the center of the tank, is designed to corrode before the tank does, helping to prevent corrosion of the tank itself.

Noisy Tank

If you hear noises from your water heater, such as a low rumbling, popping, or high-pitched whine, it could indicate that the water is boiling due to sediment build-up at the bottom of the tank, causing it to overheat.

To resolve this issue:

1.Turn off both the power and water supply to the water heater.

2.Connect a garden hose to the valve at the bottom of the heater, with the other end placed outside.

3.Open the temperature pressure relief valve at the top and the drain valve at the bottom.

4.Allow all the water and sediment to fully drain out.

5.Close the bottom drain valve and the upper pressure relief valve.

6.Remove the hose.

7.Turn the power and water supply back on.

Inlet Leaking

If you find a pool of water forming at the top of the water heater, it could be due to a leak at the cold water inlet, which is positioned at the top of the heater. Tightening this connection may often resolve the leak.

To fix it:

1.Turn off the water supply to the water heater.

2.Use a wrench to tighten the cold water inlet connection by turning it clockwise.

3.Restore the water supply.

4.Wipe the top of the water heater dry and check for any signs of leakage.

Damaged Pressure Relief Valve

The temperature pressure relief valve on the side of the water heater might develop a slow leak, which can often be fixed by replacing the valve yourself. Follow these steps to do so:

1.Turn off both the electricity and the cold water supply to the water heater.

2.Drain the water and pressure by opening the valve and placing a bucket underneath the plastic relief valve drain pipe.

3.Remove the old pressure relief valve using a pipe wrench.

4.Install the new valve by screwing it into place, using Teflon plumber's tape to ensure a tight seal.

5.Reattach the plastic relief valve drain pipe.

Sides Are Leaking

If water is leaking from the sides of the water heater, it may be due to corrosion or damage causing the tank to leak. These leaks typically occur from specific spots like holes or cracks.

In cases of tank damage or corrosion, replacement is necessary, as tanks cannot be safely repaired.

Condensation

If a water heater seems to be leaking, it might actually be experiencing water condensation. Unlike leaks from cracks or inlet connections, condensation is spread over the entire surface of the tank. While condensation itself usually doesn't indicate a serious issue, excessive water can damage the flooring.

To manage condensation, first try lowering the temperature setting on the heater to 120°F or even 115°F. If this doesn't resolve the issue, consider hiring a plumber to install a drain pan beneath the water heater to catch any excess drips.

When to Call a Professional

You may need professional assistance or a replacement for your water heater in the following situations:

•Tanks with damage or corrosion, which require replacing the entire unit.

•Instances of discolored water or unpleasant odors.

•Suspicion of bacteria in the water.

•Specific cases of inadequate hot water.