A sudden lack of hot water is an unwelcome surprise, especially on a chilly morning in Walla Walla and surrounding counties. While some water heater issues require the expertise of a professional, others can be simple to solve. Knowing the difference can save you time and stress. This guide will walk you through common water heater problems and help you identify when it’s time to pick up the phone and call for assistance.
Need hot water now? Don’t wait—reach out to our local experts right away. Call (509) 659-7565 or fill out our online contact form to get started.
No Hot Water
This is perhaps the most common and most frustrating water heater issue. If your water is completely cold, it could be due to a few different reasons, depending on whether you have a gas or electric water heater. A gas water heater uses a pilot light to ignite a burner that heats the water in the tank. An electric water heater, on the other hand, uses electric heating elements.
For both types, a simple thing to check is the power supply. For an electric unit, a tripped circuit breaker in your home’s electrical panel could be the cause. Check your breaker box and reset the breaker if it's in the "off" position. For a gas unit, make sure the gas supply valve is in the "on" position.
Not Enough Hot Water
If you have some hot water but it runs out too quickly, the problem could be a bit more complex. This can happen if your water heater is struggling to keep up with your household's demand. It’s also a common sign of a sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. Over time, minerals in our local water can settle and create a layer of sediment. This sediment acts as an insulator, preventing the heating element or burner from properly heating the water.
Other potential causes include a faulty thermostat or a heating element that is no longer working as it should. A thermostat is a device that senses the temperature of the water and turns the heating elements or burner on and off to maintain a consistent temperature. If the thermostat is not calibrated correctly or has stopped working, it could be signaling the unit to turn off too soon.
Strange Noises
Rumbling, popping, or banging sounds coming from your water heater are often a symptom of sediment buildup. As the heating element or burner attempts to heat the water, it also heats the layer of sediment below it. This can cause the water trapped in the sediment to boil, which creates the sounds you hear.
If you have a tank-style water heater, flushing the tank can help remove this sediment and restore efficiency. This process involves draining the water from the tank, which can be done by a homeowner, but it is important to follow the correct steps to ensure it is done safely and effectively.
Leaks and Drips
A leak can be a serious issue and is a strong indicator that you need to contact a professional. Even a small drip can lead to water damage over time. The source of the leak is key to determining the severity of the problem.
- Pressure Relief Valve: The Temperature and Pressure Relief (T&P) valve is a crucial safety component designed to release water if the pressure or temperature inside the tank gets too high. A small drip from this valve might be normal, but a continuous stream or a large leak could mean the valve itself is faulty or that the pressure in the tank is too high.
- Drain Valve: The drain valve is located near the bottom of the water heater and is used to flush the tank. If this valve is dripping, it might just need to be tightened. However, if the leak persists, the valve itself may be damaged and need to be replaced.
- Leaks from the Tank: If you see water leaking directly from the body of the tank, this is a very serious problem. It likely indicates a breach in the tank itself due to corrosion. This is not a repairable issue, and the water heater will need to be replaced. This is an urgent situation that can lead to significant water damage if not addressed quickly.
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Why You Should Call a Professional
While some issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting, there are many situations where calling a licensed plumber is the wisest choice. Trying to handle complex repairs yourself can be dangerous and may lead to more costly damage down the road. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call in a pro:
- Persistent problems: You’ve tried the basic troubleshooting steps, but the problem keeps coming back. This often indicates a deeper issue that needs to be diagnosed and fixed by someone with specialized tools and knowledge.
- Gas or electrical issues: Working with a gas or electrical water heater can be hazardous without proper training. Issues with gas lines, pilot lights, or electrical components should always be handled by a professional to ensure safety.
- Leaks from the tank: As mentioned above, a leak from the tank itself is a clear sign that the unit needs to be replaced. A professional can assess the damage, recommend a new unit that fits your needs, and install it correctly.
- Unusual smells or discolored water: If your hot water has a metallic smell or is rust-colored, it could indicate corrosion inside the tank. A professional can inspect the anode rod, a component designed to prevent corrosion, and determine if the tank is nearing the end of its life.
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to a complete system failure, a burst tank, or even a carbon monoxide leak. A professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and a safe, lasting solution.
For All Your Water Heater Needs in the Walla Walla Valley
When it comes to the comfort and safety of your home, having a reliable hot water supply is essential. From minor inconveniences to major leaks, knowing when to handle an issue yourself and when to bring in a professional is a valuable skill for any homeowner. Whether you’re facing a simple problem or a more serious situation, our team is here to help.
At Total Comfort Solutions, we understand the unique plumbing challenges facing homeowners in Umatilla, Walla Walla, Garfield, and Columbia Counties. Our experienced and skilled plumbers are equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to emergency replacements.
Don’t let water heater problems disrupt your daily life—get in touch with us today. Schedule an appointment online or call us at (509) 659-7565.