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8 Common Hot Water Heater Problems and Ways to Respond
The humble water heater—while we all know it’s essential for daily home activities, it’s often an unsung hero. Although when a faulty water heater disrupts morning showers, dishwashing, or laundry, we’re quickly reminded of how much we rely on it. Understanding common water heater problems and knowing how to fix them can save you time, money, and the shock of an icy cold shower.
To help you determine why your water heater is not working, we have created an outline of eight common issues. We have also provided practical tips to assist you with troubleshooting before calling a professional for support.
Table of Contents
Top Reasons Your Water Heater is Not Working
The good news is that water heaters usually last between 8-12 years with proper maintenance. As any appliance ages, it can develop various problems that end up affecting its performance. Before jumping to the conclusion that you need a full replacement, it’s worth checking if the issue is something you can fix yourself before seeking professional attention.
Here are some of the most common water heater problems homeowners face and what you can do about them.
1. Water Heater is Not Heating
One of the most common and frustrating problems is when you turn on the hot water tap only for cold water to continuously pour out. Several issues could be causing this problem:
- Power supply issues: If you have an electric water heater, check to see if the circuit breaker has tripped. If so, simply reset it by switching it to the OFF position and then back ON.
- Tripped limit switch: The high-temperature limit switch could also have tripped. To reset it, turn off power to the water heater at the service panel. Next, remove the access panel. Press the red high-temperature reset button.
- Failed heating elements: One or both heating elements might have failed. This is where it is best to call in a professional to take a look.
If you have a gas water heater, check to make sure the pilot light is lit. If it’s out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it safely.
2. Water is Extremely Hot
You could also have the opposite problem where the water coming out is scalding hot. This isn’t just uncomfortable and it can feel like you’re on the surface of the sun. This issue can potentially be dangerous. This problem usually happens when the thermostat is set way too high. To fix your water heater, follow these steps:
- Turn off power to the water heater in the service panel
- Removal access panel
- Check the temperature setting on both thermostats (upper and lower)
- Adjust them to no more than 120 F using a flathead screwdriver
- Replace the access panel and restore power
Setting your water heater temperature to 120 F is the go-to for most households—it’s hot enough for everyday use while preventing scalding and reducing overall energy consumption.
3. System is Leaking
Got water pooling around your water heater? This is a problem that requires immediate attention. Leaks can come from several sources:
- Tank leaks: If the tank itself is leaking due to corrosion or cracks, this is a big sign that you will most likely need replacement. Tank damage cannot be safely repaired.
- Connection leaks: Check all connections, including inlet/outlet pipes. Tighten any loose connections with a wrench.
- Valve leaks: The temperature and pressure relief valve might leak due to high pressure or a faulty valve.
Small leaks can quickly snowball into huge problems, potentially causing water damage to your home. If you can’t easily identify the source of the leak, it’s best to contact a trusted plumbing company like Corley promptly for support.
Read More: Do Gas Water Heaters Need Electricity to Run?
4. Discolored Water
When your hot water comes out looking rusty, yellowish, or reddish, that usually means that there is corrosion inside the tank. If you notice that the water has an unpleasant rotten egg smell, bacteria may be present inside the tank as well.
These issues are commonly caused by:
- An aging or corroded anode rod that needs to be replaced
- Sediment buildup in the tank
- Rust inside the tank or waterlines
The anode rod is a metal rod designed to attract corrosive elements in the water to protect the tank. When it’s depleted, corrosion attaches to the tank. A professional plumber can replace the anode rod to extend your water heater’s lifespan and improve water quality.
If your home has hard water, consider installing a water softener to protect your water heater and other appliances.
5. Strange Noises
Rumbling, popping, or high-pitched whining sounds from your water heaters can point to sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. As water gets trapped under this layer and heats up, it can cause these unusual noises.
If you want to resolve these issues, first turn off the power and water supply to the water heater. Next, connect a garden hose to the drain valve and open the temperature and pressure relief valve to drain the system. After all the water and sediment are drained, close all valves, remove the hose, and restore power and water.
Regular flushing (about once a year) can prevent sediment buildup and extend the water heater’s longevity.
6. Inlet Leaking
When water pools at the top of your water heater, the cold water inlet connection is usually the culprit. However, it is an easy fix:
- Turn off the water supply
- Use a wrench to tighten the inlet (turn clockwise)
- Restore water supply
- Dry the top of the heater and check if there are still leaks
If this doesn't solve the water heater problem, the fitting might be stripped or damaged and will need to be replaced by a professional.
7. Defective Pressure Relief Valve
The temperature and pressure relief valve is a crucial safety component that prevents excessive pressure buildup. If it’s leaking, this could be a sign of high pressure in the tank or a faulty valve.
You can replace the valve by first turning off the power and cold water supply. Next, drain some of the water by opening the valve (place a bucket under the drain pipe), then unscrew the old valve with a pipe wrench. Install the new valve using plumber’s tape and reattach the plastic relief drain pipe.
If you’re uncomfortable with performing this repair yourself, it’s best to call a professional, as proper installation is important for the safety of your home and family.
Read More: Top Reasons You Are Not Receiving Warm Water in Your Shower
8. Excess Condensation
Sometimes, what appears to be a leak is actually excess condensation forming in the tank. This happens when super cold water enters a hot tank or when the surrounding air is humid.
While condensation isn’t harmful on its own, excessive moisture can damage the floor and lead to foundation issues. To reduce condensation:
- Lower the water temperature to 115-120 F
- Improve ventilation around the water heater
- Consider installing a drain pan under the unit to catch any drips
If the condensation persists, consult with a specialist like Corley as it could be an indication of other issues.
Water Heater Replacement and Repair Services
While some water heater issues can be resolved without a professional, others require industry expertise. If your water heater is not working properly, contact our team of expert plumbers by phone at (864) 256-0643 to receive assistance.
If your water heater is more than 10 years old, is experiencing frequent problems, or has a damaged tank, replacement might be the most cost-effective route than continuous repairs.
Our team members provide comprehensive water heater installation services in Greenville, South Carolina, and surrounding communities. Our expert technicians can help you choose the right type and size of water heater for your needs, with various options to choose from like traditional tank models or more energy-efficient tankless water heaters.
Don’t let water heater problems disrupt your daily life. From simple repairs to complete replacements, the team at our plumbing company are ready to provide you with prompt, reliable service to restore hot water to your home quickly and efficiently.
