Water Heater Repair in Fort Washington, MD

Water Heater Problems

Water Leaks

A leaking water heater is maybe the most common type of issue that you’ll have with your water heater. Tank units are unfortunately more susceptible to this than tankless ones as by nature water will corrode the tank and create microscopic fractures and cracks. If you pay attention to where the water is leaking from you’ll be able to gauge the potential problem. If the leak is coming from the top of the tank it could point to loosened water connections. If it comes from the bottom it could be problems with condensation which may be resolved by turning up the thermostat. Finally, water leaking from the overflow pipe or pressure relief valve could point to overall tank corrosion which will mean a replacement is necessary for the entire unit.

No Hot Water

Water heaters that aren’t heating water properly could be having problems with the heat source. Concerning electric water heaters, this means that the heating elements could have failed or that electrical connections have been compromised. For gas heaters, if you have lit the pilot light but the gas doesn’t ignite it could be an issue with the burner. If you have electronic ignition systems check the breaker box in case the circuit connected to your water heater had tripped. Once that’s reset you might not have anymore more trouble getting to ignite once more.

Strange Smelling Hot Water

If you notice a strange smell when you turn on your hot water, then there’s a chance your tank may have a buildup of bacteria. A solution to this can be turning up the temperature to about 140 which can kill off any bacteria in the tank with the heat. However, it’s essential not to use hot water at all on the property as you can risk a burn if your skin is exposed. What would do is turn the temperature on, wait about an hour, then turn it back down, and wait several hours for it to drop again before running any hot water. If the problem continues you may need to have your tank cleaned.

Water Too Hot or Too Cold

If you’re noticing that water temperatures are being too inconsistent no matter how you adjust your thermostat it could be that you’re having problems with that part. It could also mean that you need to have your thermocouple cleaned or replaced in order for it to sense the proper temperatures again. With water that’s too cold, you could have a gas flow problem. If your gas flow is limited or not enough then your burner won’t be able to properly heat water.

What are the Warning Signs of Water Heater Failure?

• Aging
• Leaking
• Delivering Rusty or Cloudy Water 
• Hot Water Shortage
• Varying Water Temperature
• Making Strange Noises
• Requiring Expensive Repairs

If you’re in need of water heater repair in Fort Washington, MD then turn to our team of professionals for assistance. We are a 24-hour plumber that can help with all kinds of repair needs at any hour day or night. Don’t allow for water heater problems to halt the activity of hot water use and call us now.