A water heater allows for clean dishes, fresh clothes, and hot showers. Many issues could cause a faulty water heater, so you should know what to look for. Following several steps when you notice a problem can prevent further water damage.

1. Cold Water

You may notice a cold water issue when you take your morning shower. An electrical problem is the simplest thing to check for when your water heater stays cold. Look for blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers when your water heater isn’t heating.

Some water heaters have a gas start with a pilot light that needs to be on to heat the water. There may be another issue if the pilot light is on but not heating. A faulty heating element could be the issue, and the reset button may be able to fix minor errors.

2. Pooling Water

Check for the leak’s location if you find pooling water around your water heater. A leak at the top could mean a crack in the pipes or loosening fittings. A leak from the bottom could be as simple as an open valve. Never over-tighten when closing a valve because it can worsen the leak.

3. Rust-Colored Water

Rust-colored water is usually due to corrosion of the anode rod or tank. Have a professional replace the anode rod to stop the spread of rust inside of your water heater. Replace the tank if you notice rust inside because the corrosion will eventually eat through and cause a leak.

4. Low Water Pressure

Mineral buildup is usually the cause if you notice low water pressure when taking a shower or doing the dishes. Flushing your water heater is part of your annual maintenance to remove sediment from your tank. Mineral deposits can cause a clog or burst pipe, leading to low water pressure.

5. Pipe or Tank Leak

Water will continuously pour into your room until the cold water line shuts off after a pipe or tank bursts. The line automatically shuts off when the tank is full, but it will push excess water into your room through the leak instead.

6. Faulty Heating Element

The gas or electric heating elements shut off after matching the temperature to the thermostat. A faulty heating element may continuously run, which wastes energy and increases the chances of a fire. Find and flip the breaker, or shut off the gas line to the water heater off to ensure the safety of your home.

Your water heater runs constantly to keep your water hot, but it’s susceptible to wear and tear just like other appliances. Cutting the power to a faulty water heater or stopping the water to a leak will lower the risk of further property damage. If you need help with water heaters in Caldwell, NJ, then call us at Lesco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to schedule an appointment today.