Why Do Common Water Heater Failures Occur?

Your water heater might fail for several reasons. If there's sediment build-up in your tank, your heater's efficiency could drop. Corrosion could gnaw at its components, leading to leaks. Too much water pressure could stress the system, and simply the age of the unit could play a role–most heaters don't make it past 12 years. But don't worry, understanding these problems is the first step towards preventing them, so stay tuned for more helpful info.

Understanding Water Heater Basics

Before diving into common water heater failures, it's crucial for you to understand the basics of how a water heater functions. At its core, a water heater's job is simple – to heat water and deliver it to your faucets and appliances when needed. It's a system of heat-transfer, where energy, in the form of heat, is transferred from a fuel source to the water.

You've got two types of heaters – tank and tankless. The traditional tank-style heater stores and heats a large amount of water in an insulated tank. When you turn on your hot water tap, hot water is released from the top of the tank and cold water flows into the bottom to be heated.

Tankless, however, heats water on demand. When you turn on the tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit, and a gas burner or an electric element heats the water.

Each type has its unique set of components, but both have a thermostat to control the temperature. Understanding these basics will provide you with a foundation to diagnose and address common water heater issues.

Common Signs of Water Heater Failure

Now that you've got the basics down, let's look at the common signs that your water heater is failing.

The first thing you might notice is a change in the water temperature. If your hot water isn't as hot as it used to be, or if it's fluctuating between hot and cold, this is a clear sign of a problem. Your heater might be struggling to maintain a consistent temperature, indicating it's on the brink of failure.

Next, keep an ear out for strange noises. If you're hearing rumbling, popping, or hissing sounds, your heater could be in distress. These noises can be a sign of various issues, some of which can cause a complete breakdown if not addressed.

A leak is another telltale sign. If you see water pooling around your heater, don't ignore it. This can be a symptom of internal damage and can lead to a catastrophic failure if left unchecked.

Lastly, if you're experiencing frequent repairs, your heater is likely nearing the end of its lifespan. It's often more cost-effective to replace a failing unit than to keep patching it up.

Role of Sediment Build-Up

Over time, sediment build-up in your water heater can seriously impact its efficiency and lead to failure. You may wonder, 'What's sediment?' It's just a fancy word for any minerals or solids that settle at the bottom of your water tank. This usually includes minerals found in your water supply, like calcium and magnesium.

This build-up happens gradually. As your heater works, the heat causes the water to evaporate, leaving behind these minerals. They settle at the bottom, forming a layer of sediment. It's a natural process, but it can cause problems.

Why? Because this layer of sediment acts like a barrier between the water and the heat source. This means your heater needs to work harder and longer to heat the water, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. It's like trying to bake a cake with a layer of foil in between the cake mix and the heating element.

If not regularly flushed, the build-up can get so thick that it starts to corrode the tank, leading to leaks or complete failure. So, keep an eye on your water heater, and don't forget regular maintenance. It's key to preventing sediment build-up and ensuring your heater's longevity.

Impact of Excessive Water Pressure

Surprisingly, too much of a good thing like water pressure can spell disaster for your water heater. Excessive water pressure is one of the common culprits behind water heater failures. It's a silent killer, steadily wreaking havoc without you even realizing it until it's too late.

Think of your water heater as a balloon. Just as a balloon stretches and eventually pops under too much air pressure, your water heater can only handle so much water pressure before it gives in. Unlike the balloon scenario, though, a failed water heater can cause a lot of damage. It can lead to leaks, premature wear and tear, and even a complete breakdown.

So, how do you know if your water heater is under too much pressure? You might notice water splashing forcefully out of faucets, banging pipes, or leaking relief valves. These are all signs of excessive water pressure.

Therefore, it's essential to regularly check your water pressure and adjust it if necessary. A water pressure regulator can help keep the pressure in check. Remember, prevention is better than cure, especially when it comes to something as crucial as your water heater.

Corrosion and Rusting Problems

While excessive water pressure poses a significant threat to your water heater's longevity, corrosion and rusting problems are equally damaging. If ignored, these issues can severely impair your system's functionality and eventually cause it to fail.

Corrosion happens when metal reacts with water, forming iron oxide or what you'd commonly call rust. Your water heater is a prime target for this chemical reaction, especially if it's not maintained regularly. Rusting doesn't just damage the aesthetics of your water heater, it directly affects its performance. The build-up of rust can lead to leaks and can even contaminate your hot water supply.

To prevent this, you must regularly check your water heater for signs of corrosion. This includes discolored water, a metallic taste, or visible rust on the tank's surface. Installing a quality anode rod can also help. It acts as a sacrificial element, rusting in place of your water heater's tank.

In addition, consider using a water softener if you live in a hard water area. Minerals in hard water accelerate corrosion and rusting. Regular maintenance and timely intervention can help you avoid the costly consequence of a failed water heater due to corrosion and rusting problems.

The Issue With Faulty Thermostats

Next on the list of common water heater problems is dealing with faulty thermostats. If your thermostat isn't working properly, it can cause a slew of issues. It's the thermostat that controls the temperature of the water in your heater. When it's faulty, you might find your water is either scalding hot or icy cold.

A thermostat with a defect won't regulate the temperature correctly. You'll often notice this when there's a sudden change in water temperature. If your morning shower suddenly turns from warm to freezing, it's likely you've got a faulty thermostat on your hands. Similarly, if your hot water is too hot, it can be dangerous, especially for children and the elderly.

Remember, a faulty thermostat doesn't only affect your comfort, but it can also increase your energy bills. When it's not working right, your water heater has to work harder, using more energy to heat your water.

It's crucial to have a faulty thermostat fixed as soon as you notice an issue. Leaving it unchecked can cause further damage to your water heater and potentially lead to costly repairs. Contact a professional to inspect and fix the issue at the earliest.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your water heater is crucial to prevent these common failures and ensure its optimal performance. Without it, you're likely to face issues like leaks, inefficient heating, or even a complete breakdown. It's not just about saving you from inconvenience, but also about saving your money in the long run.

So, what does regular maintenance entail? It's more than just a quick check-up. It includes tasks like inspecting for leaks, testing the pressure relief valve, checking the anode rod, and flushing the tank to remove any sediment build-up. Ignoring these steps can lead to serious problems. For instance, if sediment accumulates, it can cause the tank to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and possible premature failure.

And remember, it's not a one-time thing. Regular means at least once a year. But if your water heater is older or you've got hard water, you might want to do it more often. Don't let procrastination get the better of you. Take charge, get your water heater the maintenance it needs, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you've prevented potential failures.

Conclusion

Don't wait until common water heater failures such as sediment build-up, excessive pressure, corrosion, or faulty thermostats become major issues! Remember, understanding your water heater and keeping an eye out for signs of failure is key to its longevity.

ASAP Plumbing, Birmingham's trusted source for fast, reliable, and affordable plumbing services, is here to help. We offer regular maintenance to prevent these problems before they become major headaches and expenses.

We're available for same-day service, ensuring you can get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible. Give us a call today at (205) 569-6360 or visit our website at asapplumb.com to schedule an appointment and experience the ASAP Plumbing difference!