If the pilot light is out and the unit is not warming water, your water heater may need some repairs. You can try relighting the pilot light, but be sure to read the manufacturer’s manual and avoid the potential for injury. Gas water heaters contain gas control valves and thermocouples, which are dangerous to play with. To make sure your water heater is safe, contact a professional water heater repair technician.
Another common issue that affects water heaters is a tripped circuit breaker. You can also reset the high-temperature cutoff switch to see if it fixes the problem. Alternatively, you can try testing the heating elements and thermostat. If the heater is relatively new, it should be easy to test. However, if it is old, you may need to replace it. If the thermostat is old and needs replacement, you can contact the professionals.
Another inexpensive repair is replacing the anode rod. This small component of a water heater is responsible for the temperature of the water in the tank. A replacement can be as low as $20, but it can be time-consuming. Moreover, it may require a technician to perform the procedure.
Water heaters usually come with a warranty policy from their manufacturers. However, you can only claim this warranty if a licensed expert repairs your water heater. A professional plumber will know how to work within the warranty policy and ensure that your warranty is fully intact. They also know how to determine if your unit is eligible for a warranty claim. It is always better to get professional assistance with water heaters than to do it yourself.
If the water heater is making unusual noises, you should get it checked by a professional. This can indicate deeper problems. If the noises are accompanied by discoloration, the issue could be with the water source itself. Then you can install a whole-house water filter. However, this solution will require a qualified plumber to handle this work.
Water heaters usually last 10 to 15 years. However, heavy use may shorten the lifespan of the unit. Replacing it will likely be more economical in the long run. If the water heater is more than 15 years old, you can try to find a new one instead of repairing it. However, this can be a costly proposition. Moreover, repairing a water heater is a temporary solution. Therefore, it’s worth contacting a professional if you’re experiencing a problem.
Water heater repair costs vary widely, depending on the type and size of your unit. If the heater is an electric unit, the cost can be as low as $20 or as high as $300. It’s important to note that professional repairs can cost up to $1,300 for a complex repair. Typically, an electric water heater has two heating elements – a top one and a bottom one. If the bottom element is bad, the unit won’t produce hot water. So, you need to test both the heating elements and thermostats before calling a professional.
A leak in the water heater can be a sign of a bigger problem. While some problems are easily fixable, others will require total replacement. A professional technician can determine the type and source of a leak and provide the right solution. If you get an expert technician to diagnose the problem and fix it, you can prolong the life of your water heater. It’s important to take care of a leak immediately, as it can cause serious damage to your home.