When was the last time you had a thorough inspection of your water heater? If it’s been a while, now might be a good time to revisit that. Even if your family has been getting by with the same water heater for years, problems may still be lurking. Even the most reliable fixtures will eventually show signs of wear and tear. If yours is leaking or otherwise in need of repair, it’s important to know exactly what needs to be replaced and when. And don’t forget about safety features like thermostats and pressure-release valves.-
Before you get started, it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of how water heaters work. There are two main categories of water heaters: conventional and electric. Conventional water heaters use a burner to heat water (or steam), and electric water heaters rely on electricity to heat water.Both types come with their own set of pros and cons and can be found in both new and old homes. Here are some common issues you might encounter:-
One of the most common signs of water heater problems is a steady flow of water from the tank. This is typically caused by a crack in the tank or a faulty pressure relief valve. If left unchecked, a leaking tank can cause extensive damage and lead to costly repairs.Fortunately, you can usually fix a leaking tank yourself with a few simple repairs. If that’s not an option, it’s time to call in a professional. You’ll want to make sure that you turn off the water supply before entering the tank. After that, you can use a potholder to remove the old gaskets and install new ones.
If you’re planning on selling your home, you may want to think twice about keeping an old water heater. If your home has a new one, prospective homebuyers will be impressed. If it’s an old tank, it can be a major turnoff. Newer water heaters are more energy efficient, come in a wider variety of styles and sizes, and can be controlled remotely via an app. If you’re looking to sell your home soon, consider replacing your old water heater before you put it on the market.-
If you have a hose or nozzle attached to your water heater, it’s important to inspect it regularly. Leaking hoses and nozzles can lead to a host of problems, including a water bill that’s higher than it should be. If you notice a drip or two, don’t delay. Repair the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise, it could lead to mold and mildew and damage your water heater.-
If you have a tube-style water heater, it’s important to inspect it regularly. It’s likely that you’ll notice a few drips here and there. If you start to notice a large amount of water pooled at the bottom of the tank, it’s time for a trip to the hardware store. You can usually find replacement parts at a nearby home improvement store, or you can order them online.-
If you’ve ever dropped a rock into a pond, you know that water pressure can cause major damage. To prevent this from happening to your water heater, it’s important to install a pressure-release valve. If a tank cracks, the pressure could cause it to explode. This is serious stuff. Luckily, you can usually fix a broken tank without the need for a professional.-
Water heaters are some of the most important appliances in the home. If yours is leaking or broken, it can be a real headache. You need to know what problems to look for so you can fix them before they get out of hand. If you take a careful look at your water heater, you’ll be able to identify any problems and get them fixed before they cause any real damage.-