Causes of Water Heater Problems

When your water heater isn't heating water enough, it can be due to a number of different causes. These include a corroded anode rod, rusty hot water, sediment buildup, and the High-limit switch. If any of these causes apply to your water heater, it is time to call a professional. In addition to replacing the thermostat, you may need to clean the dip tube or replace the thermocouple. If the problem get worse, it's best to contact water heater repair Castle Rock, CO to fix your problem immediately.


Corroded anode rod

There are several signs that your water heater's anode rod is corroded. The anode rod can become completely corroded, which puts the entire water heater at risk. To fix this problem, contact a professional plumber who will check your unit's anode rod and replace it as necessary. The plumbing contractor will also ensure that you're using the right type of anode rod.


The anode rod is your water heater's main line of defence, but the tank lining also helps. While the tank is usually made of durable steel, the tank lining is made of glass, which is not susceptible to corrosion. However, if the glass cracks, water can get to the metal and erode it. Fortunately, there are various ways to fix a corroded anode rod.


Sediment buildup

One of the biggest causes of your water heater failing to heat water is sediment buildup. Sediment comprises dissolved solids that include built-up rust, hard water minerals, sand, clay, and dirt. These materials are formed over time during the decomposition and erosion of land. Water and ice carry these materials to the water systems, where they can collect in water heaters. Because of how these particles end up in your water, it's no wonder they can accumulate inside your water heater tank.


When sediment builds up inside a water heater tank, bacteria can grow and cause your water to smell. The bad smell is caused by gases produced when the bacteria die. Flushing your system with distilled water is one way to eliminate this problem. In addition, if sediment is present in your water heater, you might notice rust in the pipes, which could indicate a damaged protective coating.


High-limit switch

If you are experiencing hot water, your water heater may be experiencing problems with the high-limit switch. This device allows the heating element to maintain the temperature, but it may malfunction or fail to operate properly. Other possible causes of a faulty high-limit switch are a shorted heating element or loose wiring. If any of these causes cause the problem, a plumber should be able to fix it for you.


The high-limit reset switch (called the door switch) is located near the bottom of the water tank. A video shows where to locate it. Watch the video at about 18:30 and then push the reset button. A click will sound as it resets the high-limit switch. If this doesn't fix the problem, you may need to replace the heating element or thermostat, or you can repair the water heater yourself.


Rusty hot water

If you're having trouble with your water heater, you may want to investigate the cause. The rusty spots around the tank may be a sign of internal rusting, but it's also possible that your hot water heater is leaking. The outer jacket could also be rusted due to condensation around the tank. The best way to figure out the source of the problem is to call a plumber.


The water coming out of your heater is discoloured. It could be orange, brown, or green. It might taste rusty or smell unpleasant. If you notice discoloration around your water heater, it may be time to replace the tank and pipes. Alternatively, you may notice the discoloration because of a clogged drain. Either way, it's time to get it fixed! Here are a few things to look for and do if your water is turning rusty.


Lack of hot water

One of the most common causes of a lack of hot water in a water heater is a problem with the thermostat. Sometimes, the thermostat is set too high and may need to be adjusted. In other cases, the heating element may be damaged or the thermostat malfunction. Either way, a plumber should be consulted to diagnose the problem properly. In addition, if hot water is intermittent or does not come quickly enough, you may need to replace the thermostat.


Another common cause of lack of hot - not enough - water is a problem with the power supply. If you suspect a gas or electric water heater is the cause, reset the circuit breaker. If the problem persists, check the upper electric heating element thermostat and reset the thermostat. In either case, the water heater is not producing enough heat to warm the water. If you still cannot get hot water, check the fixtures throughout the house.