Why Isn’t My Water Heater Working?
Although there is no one thing that causes water heaters to malfunction, what is true in almost every case is that it’s better to call a plumber sooner rather than later. Waiting to deal with problems can end up leading to more damage, or even force you to install a new water heater when your old one could’ve been repaired. On top of this, it’s also good to have your water heater checked as part of regular plumbing maintenance.
Contact us today for water heater repair in Lancaster if:
- You are no longer getting enough hot water: A lack or absence of hot water is the first sign something is off with your water heater. There could be a range of problems affecting your equipment, but if your water is significantly less warm than it has been in the past, you should always call a plumber.
- You are getting too much hot water: The flipside of not getting enough hot water is getting too much. If your water is too hot, first check your thermostat settings to see if this might be affecting the temperature. If everything appears normal there, you should call a plumber for troubleshooting, as waiting to deal with this issue could lead to nasty burns and scalding.
- Your water heater is cracked or damaged: Cracks and other physical damage in your water heater can lead to leaks or problems with the unit’s components. These issues can seriously affect your water heater’s performance, and even force you to get a new one, and should therefore be addressed right away.
- Your water heater is experiencing electrical issues: Electrical issues are dangerous, not only because they can affect your water heater’s performance, but may also cause problems for your your larger electrical system. Call our plumbers if your water hater is having electrical issues and protect your home against hazards like fires and sparking.
- Your water heater is emitting strange smells: If you find that your water heater is emitting a rotten egg smell, you may want to flush it out on your own. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you can call a professional to see if the system requires anode rod replacement.
- Your water heater is emitting strange noises: If your water is making banging or gurgling noises, it’s probably because there is loose sediment in the tank. A skilled plumber will be able to check the drain valve and see if this is the issue for you, or if you’re dealing with something more serious, like a pressure buildup.
- Your water is discolored: Discolored water is a sign that iron, copper, and other minerals may be dissolving in your tank. You can call for service to find out if this is because of something in your water supply, or if material from the tank itself is breaking down. If the latter ends up being true, you may need to have your water heater replaced.
Contact us online or at (717) 207-9952 for expert water heater repair or replacement services in Lancaster and the surrounding areas today!
How to Tell When It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater
There’s nothing worse than stepping into a shower to warm up, only for it to deliver icy cold water, especially in the freezing Pennsylvania winters. One way you can ensure this never happens is to be aware of the signs that your water heater is failing. That way, you can call us to replace your unit before further damage or discomfort is done.
Some of the common warning signs that it’s time to replace your heater include:
- It is near the end of its lifespan: Much like all appliances, your water heater will not last forever. Typically, water heaters last 10 years before they need to be replaced. However, one way to make your unit last longer is to keep up with routine flushing and maintenance.
- It is leaking: While some leaks could be repaired, if your water heater’s temperature/pressure-relief valve (TPR valve) is faulty, your unit will need to be replaced. Additionally, leaks can signify that your tank is cracked or corroded, and unfortunately, this also means that your unit will need to be replaced. It’s important to keep watch for signs of a leak, as left to linger, it could cause extensive water damage.
- It produces rusty or cloudy water: If your water heater produces rusty or cloudy water, it could mean that the tank is corroding or that a clog is developing due to the minerals in the water building up within the pipes and tank. Both of these mean that it’s time to invest in a new water heater.
- It takes forever for the water to get warm: If you’re waiting around forever for hot water to come from your faucets, or if your hot water runs out quickly, this could mean that there is sediment buildup or an electrical problem. You can help prevent this from occurring by getting regular flushes and maintenance.
- It doesn’t produce a consistent temperature: If you’re having to adjust the dial frequently because the temperature of your water keeps changing, it’s a key indicator you’re due for a water heater replacement.
- It requires expensive repairs: As your water heater ages, it will experience more wear and tear, which will get more and more expensive to repair. If the repair costs start to add up, or if they’re more than 50% of the cost of a new unit, our Lancaster water heater replacement experts recommend that you consider a new unit.
Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical Does It All!
Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical is proud to be a full range plumbing and home service company. We have everything you need when it comes to water heater repairs, replacements, installations, and maintenance, including tankless water heater service. And with our money-saving specials and cost-effective financing options, you can always afford quality work from our plumbing pros!
Customers have loved our family owned and operated business since 1904 because we offer:
- Quality Assurance
- Convenient Scheduling
- N.A.T.E. Certified Technicians
- Respect for You & Your Home
- A Highly Trained & Fully Licensed Team
- Drug-Tested & Background-Checked Employees
- 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
