Hot showers are a non-negotiable luxury for most of us, but what happens when your water heater decides to take an unexpected vacation? And how can you tell if that's the issue, or if there's something else going on.
Let's go through how to tell if you have a leaking hot water heater and other signs your water heater needs repair in Winnipeg.
Signs of a Leaking Hot Water Heater
A leaking hot water heater is one of the most common water heater problems. Check around the base of the water heater for any puddles or signs of water accumulation. A leaking water heater often results in water pooling around the unit.
Look for corrosion signs on the water heater tank or connections. Corrosion can weaken water heater metal and lead to leaks. A sudden decrease in hot water could indicate a problem with the water heater, including leaks.
That might be a sign that you need a water heater replacement.
Some water heaters are equipped with a drain pan underneath. If you find water in the drain pan, it may be an early sign of a leak.
Thermostat Problems
If you're experiencing fluctuations in water temperatures, where the water is too hot or not hot enough, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning thermostat. A faulty thermostat may struggle to regulate the temperature, impacting your comfort during showers and daily activities.
Thermostat issues can also be a sign you need to be better at maintaining your water heater. You may want to call in the professionals to see what they think.
Some water heaters have a high-limit switch that shuts off the heat if the water temperature exceeds a safe level. If this switch frequently trips, it could indicate a problem with the thermostat or another component.
Like any mechanical component, thermostats can degrade over time. If your water heater is relatively old, and you're experiencing temperature-related issues, it might be a sign that the thermostat is due for replacement.
Pilot Light Problems
Pilot light problems in a gas residential water heater can result in hot water shortages and other issues.
If the pilot light won't stay lit or keeps going out, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety mechanism that senses the presence of a pilot flame. If it fails, the gas supply to the pilot light is shut off, causing the light to extinguish.
Your furnace's pilot flame should be blue and steady. If the flame is yellow or you see it flickering, it may indicate the presence of impurities in the gas or problems with combustion.
This could lead to incomplete burning of gas and inefficient heating. Make sure your home is set up properly for fire safety, to help you protect yourself from pilot flame issues.
Leaking Hot Water Heater: Watch Out Today
A leaking hot water heater is a major problem, but there are a lot of things that can go wrong with your furnace.
Are you looking for repair and maintenance services in Winnipeg? Balcaen and Sons Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Electrical has been helping home and business owners 24/7 for over 80 years.
Give us a call today.