Water Heater Trouble: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions


websitebuilder • October 3, 2023

Today's homeowners have grown accustomed to obtaining hot water with a simple twist of a tap, thanks to water heaters that offer years of reliable service. You may therefore find yourself shocked when one day you lose that ready access to hot water or experience other strange issues with your water heater.


Once you understand how to interpret a change in your water heater's performance or behavior, you can get a clearer idea what that change might mean and the fixes your plumbing technician might have to make. Take a look at some common water heater symptoms, along with their potential causes and solutions.


Insufficient Hot Water


Few experiences can prove more eye-opening than receiving a torrent of ice-cold water instead of the hot shower you expected. If you don't get any hot water after turning the appropriate taps, your electric water heater may have stopped receiving electrical power. Check for a blown fuse or breaker that needs resetting.


Two thermostats on the water heater work together to regulate your hot water temperature, with 120 degrees Fahrenheit as a common setting. If your water doesn't get hot enough, your plumber will examine the thermostat setting and adjust them as needed. This simple step could solve your problem.


If the water heater produces hot water only briefly before cooling off, your plumber may need to replace its lower heating element. If your water heater can only raise the water temperature to lukewarm levels, its upper heating element may have failed. If you've never enjoyed sufficiently hot water, you might need a larger water heater


Low Hot Water Pressure


Even if your water heater provides consistent water temperatures, you might not feel satisfied with the pressure of that hot water. If you can't obtain more than a thin stream of hot water, mineral sediment known as limescale may have lined the bottom of the tank. If so, your plumber can drain and clean the tank.


Other parts of the water heater assembly can also cause low hot water pressure. Potential culprits include broken or leaky pipes, crimped or wrong-sized feed lines, a main water shutoff valve that needs adjusting, or even a blockage in your shower head or faucet tap..


Disturbing Noises From Your Water Heater


If your water heater has developed a problem, it may communicate its distress to you audibly. For instance, you might hear banging or popping noises coming from the tank. These sounds typically indicate that your plumber needs to clean limescale buildup out of the tank.


Water heaters' heating elements occasionally make hissing or crackling noises as part of their normal operation. However, you may need to get the heating elements checked if you hear this sound all the time. A whistling noise from the water heater could mean that the device's pressure or temperature valves require tightening.


Discolored or Otherwise Unappealing Water


Discolored, smelly, or foul-tasting water can plague homes for a variety of reasons, from municipal water supply issues to deteriorating pipes. However, if you only notice these symptoms when you run hot water, they may stem from a water heater problem that requires professional attention.


Mineral deposits in your water heater's tank can turn your hot water brown. These minerals may come from the water entering the tank, or they may have leached out of rusty parts of the tank itself. While your plumber can replace a faulty anode rod to help prevent further corrosion, a rusty tank may need replacing.


The same sediment that affects a water heater's performance can also harbor bacteria. This bacteria can affect the smell and taste of your hot water. You may need to flush out your water tank with a small amount of white vinegar to restore the quality of your hot water.


If you suspect a problem with your water heater, ask the experienced technicians at Oak Creek Plumbing for help. We can inspect the water heater, replace individual components that have failed, or replace a water heater that has reached the end of its useful life. Contact us today to schedule our services.

February 1, 2025
Relocating your kitchen sink can be a game-changer for your kitchen’s functionality and style. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we understand that making such a significant update requires expert planning and execution. To help you navigate this project, we’ve put together a guide on the do’s and don’ts of relocating your kitchen sink in 2025. When planning your sink relocation, start by evaluating the feasibility of moving plumbing lines. Keeping the sink close to existing connections can save you money and streamline the process. Proper venting and drainage are crucial to avoid plumbing issues down the road. Don’t forget to position your sink strategically within the “kitchen work triangle” (sink, stove, and refrigerator) to maximize efficiency and convenience in your kitchen layout. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we recommend obtaining necessary permits and consulting with professionals to ensure the job is done right. Our licensed plumbers and kitchen remodeling experts can guide you through the process, helping you avoid costly mistakes. This is also a great opportunity to upgrade outdated pipes or consider installing a water filtration system for added functionality. Plus, a well-thought-out sink relocation can boost your kitchen’s resale value, making it a worthwhile investment. Avoid common pitfalls by addressing structural constraints, such as load-bearing walls or floor joists, which can complicate plumbing work. It’s important to budget realistically for costs, including plumbing modifications, cabinetry adjustments, and potential flooring repairs. While aesthetics are important, functionality should take priority. For example, a sink under a window is visually appealing but should not disrupt the flow of your kitchen. Electrical considerations are just as important as plumbing. Ensure proper placement of outlets, lighting, and garbage disposal wiring in the new sink area. Don’t overlook water pressure checks and drainage slope requirements, as these details are critical for preventing leaks and clogs. Above all, avoid rushing the project—cutting corners can lead to improper installations and long-term damage. At Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling , we specialize in seamless kitchen sink relocations that enhance both style and functionality. Whether you’re looking to optimize your kitchen layout or make a bold design statement, our team is here to help. With our expertise, you can achieve a kitchen that’s efficient, stylish, and built to last. Ready to get started on your kitchen sink relocation? Contact Oak Creek Plumbing and Remodeling today for a consultation! Let’s turn your kitchen dreams into reality.
January 16, 2025
Are you looking to buy plumbing replacement parts? Read our blog to learn why it's important to hire a professional to help with parts selection.
November 20, 2024
Most of us understand reliance on water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. Read on to learn the signs that you need a water purification system.
November 1, 2024
Read this blog to learn how you can prepare your home for winter with a professional plumbing inspection to prevent costly repairs and ensure peace of mind.
October 7, 2024
Need to update your kitchen for loved ones? Read this blog to discover kitchen remodeling ideas for elderly individuals to ensure safety and comfort.
By websitebuilder August 1, 2024
Are you thinking about giving your kitchen a makeover? Read this blog about key considerations for your kitchen remodel. Contact us to learn more.
By websitebuilder July 23, 2024
Is it hard to use the bathroom at home? Read this blog to learn how to enhance your bathroom safety as you age with these six plumbing remodeling ideas.
By websitebuilder June 13, 2024
Bathroom remodels are significant projects for any homeowner to tackle. Read our blog to learn how a plumber can help you achieve a successful bathroom remodel.
By websitebuilder April 26, 2024
Have you ever experienced a clogged drain that just won't budge, no matter how much you try? Read our post to learn how power drain cleaning can help.
By websitebuilder April 3, 2024
Are you looking to give your bathroom a quick and easy upgrade? Read on to learn the top benefits of changing your bathroom fixtures.
More Posts
Share by: