You step into the shower amidst a cold spell only to find icy water running down the showerhead. It’s inconvenient and uncomfortable because who likes to be greeted like that? Your hot water system runs in the background until something goes wrong. Your system gives clues before it completely gives up, and honestly, this is the good news. Early warning signs are still better than an unexpected breakdown.
Strange noises, sudden leaks, and rust are some of the telltale signs that answer your “why is my hot water heater not working?” question. Ignoring these signs can be a costly expense in the future, causing you and your loved ones inconvenience and discomfort.
In this blog post, we have listed 5 warning signs of your hot water heater that you shouldn’t ignore. We will also tell you what to do if you notice any of these signs.
5 Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
1. Your Hot Water Is Making a Rumbling or Popping Noise
Your hot water heating system does make some sound, but hearing crackling, popping or rumbling noises during operation means something is wrong. Sediment building up at the tank’s bottom is usually the reason behind these noises.
Minerals usually settle on surfaces as the water heats and form a layer that traps water, causing it to pop while boiling. Over time, this layer hinders your heater’s performance and puts a strain on it, restricting its full efficiency. It not only increases energy bills but also causes the tank to eventually break down.
Even if you have a tankless system, scale can build up and block the flow of water. Therefore, you should never ignore such noises, whether you have a tank system or a tankless one.
2. Water Is Pooling Around Your Hot Water Heater's Base
Do you see water around the base of your hot water heater? Know that it is not a good sign. Condensation or a loose connection might be causing a leak, but often, it is due to a crack or a split. Even if it is a small leak, it is better to get professional help; otherwise, it could lead to catastrophic failure.
A leak could also mean that the inside of your hot water heating tank is corroded. In such a case, repair is not a solution – replacement is. Get professional help if you notice a drip from the tank, because early service identifies issues and saves cost and time.
3. Water Has a Metallic Taste or Smells Bad
If your hot water is rusty, has a metallic taste, or is brown or yellow in colour, it could also mean internal corrosion. The inside of the tank is metal, and it is susceptible to rusting over time. Tanks have an anode rod that is specifically designed to attract corrosive elements, but once that rod deteriorates, the tank itself becomes prone to corrosion. This rusting will eventually lead to a leak anytime soon. Therefore, in this case, it is best to replace the unit with a new one. Surrey Air has a team of experts who install and replace hot water heating systems. Get in touch with our team for more information.
4. You Notice A Sudden Spike in Energy Bills
A hot water system that is working hard to reach its potential is definitely under pressure, consuming more energy to heat up the same amount of hot water. Many factors contribute to less-efficient performance, including older models, damaged components, and sediment buildup. Not only does it cause a spike in energy bills, but it also leads to sudden breakdown during operation. Upgrade to an efficient unit, such as a heat pump hot water system, and schedule maintenance plans to keep your system in top condition for years to come.
5. Water Is Too Hot
While cold water is a problem, extremely hot water running from your shower is also a serious concern. The thermostat could be set too high – above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if the temperature setting is correct, then you should get it checked because it may indicate a faulty thermostat.
Conclusion
Hot water during a cold spell is a blessing, but what if your system stops working all of a sudden? It is an inconvenience and a source of discomfort for everyone. But a hot water heater does give you hints and signs before shutting off completely. Look for those signs and get professional help from Surrey Air when required.
