7 Signs You Need A Water Heater Repair | Bedford, TX

Although the water heater in your Bedford, TX home is technically an appliance, it is still an essential part of your plumbing system. The water coming into your home is cold, and your water heater heats and stores the water, so it is available when you need it.

Water heater issues are serious because they can affect the water temperature, make the water unsafe for use, and can damage your home. You rely on hot water to perform many daily activities. Your hot water-based appliances need hot water to function at peak performance; therefore, your water heater should be repaired immediately if there is a problem.

If your water heater is experiencing any of the following issues, a plumber specializing in water heater repair can help.

#1 No Hot Water

If you have no hot water, even after letting it run for a while, you may need to call a plumber specializing in water heater repair.

Before making the call, you should check a few things to prevent paying for an unnecessary service call. If you have an electric water heater, make sure that the unit has power. If you have an oil-fueled water heater, make sure there is oil in the tank. If your water heater runs on gas or propane, check the fuel tank to ensure it isn’t empty.

If everything checks out, it is time to schedule an appointment for a repair. The most common cause of a lack of hot water is a faulty heating element, making it impossible for the water to heat up. If your water heater is over ten years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan and can no longer function efficiently.

#2 The Water Isn’t Hot Enough

If the water coming from the faucets and showerheads in your home isn’t getting hot enough, check the thermostat setting. It is recommended to keep the thermostat set to 120 to 140 degrees. If the thermostat isn’t set correctly, adjusting it should solve the problem. If the thermostat is set correctly, you should call a water heater repair company.

There could be an issue with the thermostat or the heating element, making it impossible for the water to reach the desired temperature. A professional in water heaters can inspect the unit to find the problem so it can be resolved.

#3 You Frequently Run Out of Hot Water

The water heater in your Bedford, TX home holds enough water for at least four showers. If the water frequently gets cold mid-shower, you should call a plumber specializing in water heater repair.

The first question the plumber will ask is if someone new moved into your home. They will also ask if you recently installed your first dishwasher or washing machine. If you said yes to either question, your hot water demand would increase, and your water heater may not be large enough to keep up with your family’s hot water demand. This would require replacing the unit with a larger model or a tankless water heater that provides hot water only when you need it.

If your home situation hasn’t changed, there could be significant amounts of sediment in the water tank, and there won’t be as much space for hot water storage, causing you to run out quickly. If the sediment cannot be removed, you will need to replace the water heater.

#4 Reduced Hot Water Pressure

Inadequate hot water pressure can make simple tasks take longer than necessary, such as washing your hair and washing the dishes. In addition, your dishwasher and washing machine needs adequate hot water pressure to function at peak performance.

If the hot water pressure in your Bedford, TX home has suddenly reduced, you should schedule an appointment for water heater repair.

When sediment builds up in the water tank, it can clog the waterline, reducing the water pressure. A professional in water heater repair can try to clear the waterline, but if they can’t remove the sediment from the tank, it won’t be long before the waterline clogs again, and you will need to replace the water heater.

#5 Discolored Hot Water

The hot water coming from the taps in your home should be clear. If it has a brownish tint, schedule an appointment for water heater repair immediately.

When sediment builds up in the tank, it can break apart, contaminating the water. If your water heater is over ten years old, the inside of the tank could be breaking down, and tiny pieces of metal and other deposits can contaminate the water.

It isn’t safe to use discolored, contaminated water; therefore, you should call a professional in water heater repair right away. If you absolutely must use the water, you should boil it first until the problem has been resolved.

#6 Strange Sounds

Your water heater should be whisper quiet when it runs, and if you hear banging or clanging sounds coming from the unit, you should schedule an appointment for water heater repair.

When large pieces of sediment build up in the tank, it can bang against the sides. If you ignore the problem, the sediment can crack the water tank, causing a flood in your home.

A plumber can try to remove the sediment; however, you will need to replace the water heater if they can’t.

#7 Moisture or Water Pooling

The area around your water heater should be dry. If there is moisture or water pooling around the unit, you should call an emergency plumber.

Moisture often indicates a loose or cracked hose. While this is an easy fix, waiting to call a plumber can result in water damage or mold growth around the unit.

If water is pooling around the unit, it indicates a leak in the tank, and the unit should be replaced immediately to prevent a flood in your home.

Why Choose Tioga Plumbing & Electric?

If your water heater isn’t working correctly, call Tioga Plumbing & Electric. We are a full-service plumbing, electric, and glass company, serving customers in the area since 1953.

Our plumbers are professionally trained, highly skilled and must pass a background check and a drug test before they are hired. When we send a plumber to your home, they will be in a fully-stocked truck, allowing them to make many repairs the same day.

If you need to have your water heater repaired, give us a call or book online.