Sometimes, water heater repair requires something as simple as replacing dead batteries in a leak detection alarm. Your product manual is the first source of information to review if you’re experiencing problems with your water heater. 

If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting common issues with water heater performance, call a professional who can safely diagnose and repair your water heater. If you are a DIY-type, consider the list of likely issues and the follow the recommended guidelines:

Water heaters are complex appliances, but there are several basic causes you can look for before calling a professional. The most common problems with water heaters include the following:

Water Isn't Hot Enough

Several issues may cause your water heater to provide insufficient heat:

The first thing to look at is the temperature setting on the thermostat (electric water heater) or the electronic gas valve (gas water heater). If the temperature is set too low, the water won’t get hot enough for your preference. For detailed instructions on how to adjust the temperature, consult the original product manual that came with the water heater. If you are not comfortable performing this task, consult a professional.

Other issues that might occur include:

• One or both heating elements may be damaged
• Your thermostat needs to be replaced
• You may have a leak somewhere in your home’s water system

In any of these cases, consult a professional for the correct diagnosis and skilled repair services.

If the problem only occurs with a single shower or faucet, you might have a faulty thermostatic mixing valve. Replace the valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional to be safe. 

No Hot Water at All

When you aren't getting any hot water from from all faucets, it's usually because of one of two reasons:

• Your home's electrical wiring systems and circuit breakers may have issues. Circuits could be overloaded in one area and cause problems elsewhere in the system.
• You have a burned-out upper heating element.

Water Temperature Is Too Hot

If your water temperature is too hot, you may have your thermostat set too high and you run the risk of scalding. It's probably best to find a service provider who can adjust the temperature or install thermostatic mixing valves to moderate the temperature coming out of the faucet.

Hot Water Runs Out Too Fast

Installing a unit that can't meet the hot water demand for your household is the most common cause of this problem. If you run out of hot water frequently, use our water heater selector tool to find a unit that will suit your needs. This tool considers flow rates based on your model, hot water use per occupant, how much hot water each uses at the same time, and your bath and shower sizes.

Rust-Colored Water or Bad Odor

The presence of a non-toxic sulfate reducing bacteria, Divibrio Sulfurcans, can cause rust-colored water and water that has a bad odor. This bacterium creates the energy it needs to survive by converting sulfate (SO4) to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas you smell in the water. 

You can solve this problem by setting the water temperature to 140 F and installing thermostatic mixing valves at each point of use to prevent the risk of scalding. 

Water Leaks

Loose fittings and connections are the most common causes of water leaks. A faulty pressure relief valve or a corroded or cracked tank may be the culprit.

Tank Making Noises

Popping noises in your hot water tank usually mean you have sediment in your water heater. Pressure in the system may cause a banging noise called a "water hammer," which requires professional repair. Whistling noises may indicate a blocked valve, and hissing usually means you have sediment inside the tank. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank also causes vibrating noises.

Low Water Pressure

Faulty pressure regulator valves, which are part of a water system rather than a water heater, are a frequent cause of low water pressure. When this issue is caused by your water heater, however, it's typically due to a blocked or damaged hot water shutoff valve.

Status Light Flashing (Gas)

When the status light on your gas water heater flashes, it usually indicates a lack of power to the unit or an empty tank. Other issues include problems with your thermostat or a pilot light that's gone out. Refer to the printed instruction manual for your water heater to determine the meaning of the flash codes.

Performing regular maintenance tasks on your water helps it to run more efficiently and extends the life of the unit.

Optimum Performance and Efficiency

Water heaters that are well maintained typically perform at peak efficiency to save you money on energy costs. This means ridding your unit of sediment buildup and preventing potential corrosion by flushing the tanks as needed as well as checking and cleaning the heating elements. While performing maintenance, visually inspect the overall unit to ensure there are no issues.

Increase the Life of Your Water Heater

Water heaters are an expensive investment, so maintaining your existing unit extends its lifespan. The way sediment and minerals accumulate in your system has the potential to damage key parts and reduce its efficiency. Routine maintenance enables smooth operation and saves money over the long term.

Peace of Mind & Protection

A proactive approach also protects your family should issues with a gas water heater create a potentially dangerous situation.