Are you worried about a problem with your hot water heater? If you’ve noticed any problems lately, you may wonder whether a repair is worth it or if a whole new tank is on the horizon.

Luckily, many hot water heater problems have symptoms that indicate there is a problem. Below we’ve described a host of possible indicators and how to keep track.

When you call a plumber about a water heater repair, you’ll be prepared with all the information they need when you check out our list below.

Discolored Water

Have you noticed that the water coming out of the faucet is a different color? If it’s a new color, or it’s just not clear like it should be, that could be an indicator that your hot water heater has a problem.

Whether you have city water or well water, mineral deposits build up in your hot water heater and they can cause problems. The sediment lodged in your water heater can cause the water to change colors. When you call about hot water heater repair, make sure you let the plumber know about the colors you’re seeing and how long you’ve been seeing them.

Depending on which minerals and the percentage that’s in your water, it could negatively impact your health. These deposits have been linked to kidney stones, atopic dermatitis, and other serious health conditions.

You may also notice colors in other places. Even if the water appears clear, if you have orange-tinted shower walls or your clothes are getting dingier after going through the laundry a few times, that could also be an indicator that you have mineral deposits in your water.

Notice a Leak?

You may need hot water heater maintenance if you notice a leak coming from the unit. While some leaks are noticeable when they first start, others are slow leaks or silent leaks. These are the ones that can be most dangerous because you don’t notice until too late, and then you can get mold or water damage.

If you think you have an issue with your hot water heater, make sure to inspect the unit. Check for pools of water or drips on the outside, even if you don’t hear any water dripping.

It’s also a good idea to inspect your hot water heater regularly in case there aren’t any other signs of a problem. Finding a leak may be the only way to know you need a repair.

Wrong Water Temp

Water heater repair service is one of the most common commercial plumbing problems, but it’s also a problem for residences. Whether you’re surprised by a cold shower one morning or trying to wash dishes with only cold water available, you don’t want to wait to be someone’s priority.

You need a plumber who can be there right away. When you’ve only got cold water coming out of your taps, you can’t properly sanitize dishes or even take care of proper hygiene.

Yet cold water isn’t the only issue that could mean you need a water heater repair. Irregular water temps are another indicator. If your water sometimes seems hot enough, and other times it’s only lukewarm, you could have a problem.

Your hot water heater should be able to regulate the water temperature well enough that you don’t notice any fluctuations. While eventually a water heater may run out of hot water, depending on the type you have, it’s not something that should run out right away or have an inconsistent temperature.

Noisy Water Heater?

One key indicator that you have a hot water heater not working like it should is noises coming from the unit. While most machines have some noise during operation, if you notice a new or different noise that could mean a problem.

Any grinding or clunking noise can indicate trouble with regular function or a loose part. Different problems can make different noises, so if you hear something that may be unusual, take notes. Try to describe the noise so that you can relay it to a plumber when you call.

If you can, record the noise. Sometimes trying to replicate a noise yourself doesn’t always work, and a sound recording or video will provide a more accurate presentation of the problem.

Water Heater Repair for Longer-Lasting Hot Water

How fast does your hot water run out while you’re trying to shower? If it used to last a lot longer and now it seems to run out in just a few minutes, you could have a problem with your hot water heater.

You might ask, “How long should the water last?” This varies based on the type of water heater you have and the settings.

Some water heaters can be programmed for high- and low-demand days, based on your family’s usage. Talk to your plumber about how to program your water heater and whether your current unit is designed for the number of people living in your home.

Still, if you’re noticing any big changes recently, there could be a water heater problem.

Tankless hot water heaters offer on-demand water heating. They use gas or electric heating elements to heat cold water as it goes through the machine. If you have this type of water heater and notice that it’s not providing constant hot water, you know you have a problem.

Home Comfort

If you have any of the above symptoms, you could need a hot water heater repair. From noisy tanks to discolored water, many issues can indicate you need a plumber. The water temperature and even silent leaks can all be tell-tale signs that your tank needs some TLC.

Pay attention to the signs and noises you hear, and make notes so you can describe the problem accurately.

For help with any hot water heater issue, call Plumb Time Plumbing and Drain Services LLC today.