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A reliable water heater is essential for daily comfort, whether it’s for your morning shower, cooking, or cleaning. However, even the best units can face common water heater problems over time. Ignoring small issues can lead to costly water heater repair, damage, and even full replacement.
With decades of plumbing and HVAC experience, AAdvantage Inc has helped Oklahoma City homeowners address water heater leak concerns, heating element issues, and more. This guide covers 10 common water heater problems, their causes, and water heater maintenance tips to keep your system running efficiently.
No Hot Water
Common Water Heater Problems: If you turn on a hot water faucet and there’s no heat, your water heater is not heating correctly.
Common cause of water heater failure:
- Electric water heater – Damaged heating element in electric water heaters or faulty thermostat.
- Gas water heater – Pilot light problems or gas supply interruptions.
- General – Tripped breaker or disconnected power to the heater.
How to troubleshoot:
- Check the breaker or fuse box.
- Relight the pilot for gas or electric water heater models if applicable.
- Call a pro for water heater repair if the heating element or thermostat needs replacement.
Inconsistent Water Temperature
Common Water Heater Problems: Fluctuating water temperature often means your system can’t consistently heat water to the desired level.
Possible causes:
- Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank.
- Malfunctioning thermostat on your tank water heater.
- Broken dip tube mixing cold water with hot.
Solutions:
- Flush the water heater to clear sediment.
- Adjust or replace the thermostat.
- Replace the dip tube for proper water flow.
Water Heater Leak
Common Water Heater Problems: A leaking water heater is a serious issue that can cause water damage and even mold growth.
Reasons your water heater may leak:
- Loose plumbing connections.
- Corrosion inside the water heater tank.
- High water pressure damaging seals.
Fixes:
- Tighten fittings.
- Replace the pressure relief valve.
- If the entire water heater is corroded, install a new water heater.
Strange Noises Coming from the Water Heater
Popping, hissing, or banging sounds indicate an underlying issue with the operation of your water heater.
Common culprit:
- Sediment or mineral buildup from hard water.
How to fix:
- Flush the water heater.
- Install a water softener to prevent future scale.
Noises left unchecked can shorten the lifespan of your water heater unit.
Low Hot Water Pressure
If you have low water pressure, your plumbing system or water heater components may be restricted.
Common causes:
- Sediment or scale in water lines.
- Partially closed shut-off valve.
- Blocked water heater’s top outlet.
What to do:
- Fully open the shut-off valve.
- Clean aerators on faucets.
- Have a plumber inspect and cleaning the system.
Discolored or Rusty Hot Water
Brown or rusty type of water from your water heater is never a good sign.
Possible sources:
- Worn anode rod.
- Rusting inside the bottom of the water heater.
- Old galvanized pipes.
Solution:
- Replace the anode rod every few years.
- If corrosion has spread to the tank, replacement is required.
Smelly Water from the Heater
A sulfur or “rotten egg” odor in hot water means bacteria may be inside the tank.
Why it happens:
- Sulfur bacteria reacting with anode rod material.
- Warm, stagnant water in the tank.
How to fix:
- Drain and disinfect the tank.
- Replace the rod with an aluminum/zinc version.
Water Heater Takes Too Long to Reheat
Waiting too long for enough hot water could mean your water heater is not working efficiently.
Causes:
- Unit too small for household demand.
- Faulty heating element.
- Thermostat set too low.
Solutions:
- Upgrade to the correct type of water heater.
- Replace components of the water heater like the heating element.
- Adjust the thermostat on your water heater.
Preventing Common Water Heater Issues
Water heater maintenance helps avoid breakdowns and improves efficiency.
Tips:
- Drain the water heater annually to remove sediment.
- Inspect for leaks and repair loose fittings.
- Test the pressure relief valve.
- Schedule water heater service checks yearly.
When to Call for Water Heater Service in Oklahoma City
Call a professional plumber or HVAC expert when:
- There’s no hot water or lack of hot water repeatedly.
- You have a leaking water heater or pooling water.
- Rusty or foul-smelling water is coming from taps.
- Breakers trip often on electric water heaters (these are high-voltage appliances).
A licensed technician ensures safe installation, repair, and cleaning of all water heater components for the efficient operation of your water heater.
