Need hot water heater repair? A functioning hot water heater is an essential part of every Houston home, providing hot water for showers, cooking, cleaning, and more. When it starts to fail, the inconvenience is undeniable.
Mammoth Plumbing, a trusted provider of Houston hot water heater repair and replacement services, is here to guide you through the common warning signs that indicate it’s time to call in the experts.
When to Schedule Hot Water Heater Repair
Here, we’ve listed some of the most common water heater malfunctions indicating the need for repair services; ignoring these could lead to much larger and more costly issues—or even a total system breakdown –
1. Inconsistent Water Temperature
If your water temperature fluctuates from hot to lukewarm or even cold, your hot water heater may be struggling to do its job. This issue often stems from:
- Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, insulating the water from the heating element. Houston’s water can exacerbate sediment buildup, so it’s critical to address this issue early.
- A failing water heater thermostat or heating element.
2. Low Hot Water Pressure
Low water pressure can make everyday tasks frustrating. It’s often caused by sediment buildup or mineral deposits like limescale narrowing the pipes connected to your hot water heater. Over time, this buildup reduces flow and stresses the system, requiring professional cleaning or repairs.
If your hot water pressure is noticeably lower than your cold water pressure, it’s a clear signal your heater needs attention. Here are some potential solutions:
- Professional Cleaning: Flushing the system removes sediment and restores water flow.
- Pipe Repairs or Replacement: Corroded or blocked pipes may need professional servicing.
- Install a Water Filtration System: Houston’s hard water contributes to mineral buildup in your hot water heater and pipes. A water filtration system reduces sediment and mineral deposits, protecting your plumbing and improving pressure.
Mammoth Plumbing can perform a thorough inspection and recommend the best solution for restoring your water pressure.
3. Strange Noises Coming From Your Water Heater
Your hot water heater should run quietly in the background. If you hear unusual sounds like popping, banging, or rumbling, it’s a sign something is wrong. These noises are often caused by:
- Excessive sediment heating up and exploding in the tank.
- Loose or broken components within the heater.
Ignoring these noises could lead to a complete system failure, so don’t hesitate to call a professional.
4. Discolored or Rusty Water
If your hot water comes out discolored, rusty, or has a metallic taste, it could indicate:
- Corrosion inside the tank.
- A failing anode rod (a component designed to prevent rust).
While rusty water may not pose an immediate health risk, it’s a clear sign your hot water heater is deteriorating and may soon need repairs or replacement.
5. Leaking Tank or Pooled Water
One of the most obvious signs of trouble is water pooling around your system. Water heater leaks can occur due to faulty valves, internal pressure, cracks, or loose connections.
Small leaks can quickly escalate into major water damage if not addressed promptly. Mammoth Plumbing’s team specializes in locating and fixing leaks, ensuring your home remains safe and dry.
6. Hot Water Runs Out Quickly
If you find yourself running out of hot water much faster than usual, it’s likely a sign of:
- A broken or failing heating element.
- Sediment buildup reducing the tank’s capacity to store and heat water.
This issue is particularly frustrating for families and busy households. Timely water heater repairs can restore your water heater’s performance and your comfort.
7. Water with a Foul Odor
If your hot water has a sulfur-like or “rotten egg” smell, it could be due to bacterial growth inside the tank. This often occurs when the tank’s temperature is too low to kill off bacteria. A plumbing professional can flush the system, sanitize the tank, and ensure it’s operating at the correct temperature.
Hot Water Heater Troubleshooting Step-by-Step
Before calling in the experts, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and potentially resolve common hot water heater issues. While some problems require professional assistance, others may have a simple fix. Follow this step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Check the Power Source
For electric water heaters:
- Ensure the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Reset the breaker and test the unit again.
For gas water heaters:
- Check that the gas supply is turned on.
- Inspect the pilot light. If it’s out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If it doesn’t stay lit, the thermocouple may need to be replaced.
Step 2: Adjust the Thermostat
If the water temperature isn’t consistent, the thermostat may be set incorrectly.
- Locate the thermostat on the side of the water heater tank.
- For electric models, adjust the temperature using a flathead screwdriver.
- For gas models, turn the dial to the desired setting.
The recommended temperature is 120°F for optimal performance and safety.
Step 3: Inspect for Leaks
- Check around the base of the unit for signs of water pooling.
- Examine valves, connections, and fittings for drips or moisture.
- Tighten any loose connections, but if leaks persist, call a professional to avoid further damage.
Step 4: Flush the Tank
Sediment buildup can cause noise, reduce efficiency, and limit hot water capacity. To flush the tank:
- Turn off the power supply (electricity or gas).
- Shut off the cold water supply valve.
- Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and direct the hose to a safe drainage area.
- Open the valve and let the water flow out until clear.
- Close the valve, refill the tank, and restore power.
Step 5: Test the Pressure Relief Valve
The pressure relief valve prevents the tank from over-pressurizing.
- Lift the lever on the valve and let some water discharge.
- If no water flows or the valve leaks continuously, it may need to be replaced.
Step 6: Check for Rusty Water
If you notice rusty water, inspect the anode rod. This sacrificial rod prevents tank corrosion but wears out over time.
- Turn off the water heater and drain some water.
- Remove the anode rod (located at the top of the tank).
- Replace it if it’s heavily corroded or less than ½ inch thick.
Step 7: Reset Your Hot Water Heater
Some water heaters have a reset button. If the unit isn’t working, try resetting it:
- Locate the reset button (usually red) on the thermostat or control panel.
- Press it firmly until you hear a click.
- Restore power and test the water temperature.
When to Replace Your Hot Water Heater?
While repairs can extend the life of your hot water heater, there comes a point when total replacement is the more cost-effective and reliable option. Here are the key situations when it’s best to replace your unit:
- Age of the Water Heater: Most traditional tank water heaters last 8–12 years, while tankless models can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. If your system is nearing the end of its lifespan and experiencing frequent problems, replacement is often the smarter choice.
- Frequent Water Heater Repairs: If your hot water heater requires frequent or costly repairs, the combined expense can quickly exceed the cost of a new unit. A replacement provides peace of mind and long-term savings.
- Major Issues like Tank Leaks: A leaking tank cannot be repaired and poses a risk of water damage to your home. In this case, replacement is the only viable solution.
- Decreased Efficiency: If your energy bills are rising and your water heater struggles to maintain hot water, it may no longer be operating efficiently. Upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model can lower your utility costs.
- Insufficient Capacity: For growing households, an undersized water heater can’t keep up with demand. Replacing it with a larger or tankless unit ensures you’ll always have enough hot water.
Schedule Hot Water Heater Repair Or Replacement
If these troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue or if you notice persistent problems like frequent leaks, unusual noises, or recurring temperature issues, it’s time to call the experts. Attempting more advanced repairs without the proper tools and knowledge can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
At Mammoth Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing all types of hot water heater problems. We’ll assess your system’s condition and recommend the best solution for your home and budget.
Whether you need Houston water heater repair services, general maintenance, or a new installation, we’re just a phone call away – 281-398-1700.