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5 Signs You Need Water Heater Repair | Potomac, MD

When the weather gets quite cold in Potomac, MD, a nice warm shower is a perfect way to either start or end the day. In fact, some people would argue that after a long day at the office, a warm, soothing bath is the best reward. This is why it can be very dramatic to get in the bath or shower and realize that you have no hot water. While this may certainly wake you up, it is not going to make you feel good in any way, and chances are that it means you need water heater repair.

Your hot water heater is responsible for heating the water in your home and sending it back through your pipes. If your water heater is not working properly, then the water will come out at a lukewarm temperature which is arguably considered cold by most people. This is usually not something that you can fix on your own and will require help from a professional plumbing company that is experienced and handles water heater repair.

However, you should know that there are many things you can do before you get to a situation where you have no hot water. While there are random pieces that can break or your hot water tank and just suddenly flip off, there are a lot of early signs that you need a hot water heater repair that can help you get to the brunt of the problem before the cold shower. With that in mind, we would take a look at a few of the most common signs that it is time to call a plumber to take a look at your water heater.

Odd Noises Coming from Water Heater

One of the very biggest tip-offs that it may be time for water heater repair is if you notice your water heater is making suspicious noises. In fact, any noise is something that should make you uneasy because your water heater should not make anything more than a hum. Therefore, if you hear any type of noise, it is time to call for help from a professional plumber who can quickly get to the root of the issue.

While any sign is a warning that something is wrong, there are a few sounds that are more concerning, including whistling, banging, thumping, or howling. All of these are signs that pressure is building up and can lead to your water tank exploding. It is in your best interests to avoid this scenario since you don’t want 40 gallons worth of water all over the first floor of your home. Therefore, if you start hearing these noises you need to call a Potomac, MD plumber and tell them that you need water heater repair. It is also probably a good idea to turn your water heater offer until they arrive to check your tank out.

Shifting Water Temperatures

Another indication that your water heater may be on the fritz is if you notice that the water temperature seems to change a lot while you are showering, washing the dishes, or doing anything else that involves hot water. This is a sign that your water heater is not evenly heating your water, which indicates that there is a problem with the heating coils. Not only is it uncomfortable, but over time you may notice that the temperatures start to lean toward the cooler side, which will eventually leave you in the cold.

Keep in mind that not only is this uncomfortable, but it means that it is probably happening when you wash your clothes or run your dishwasher as well. That means that your clothes and dishes are not getting properly cleaned, which is one more reason not to put off seeking help for water heater repair.

Discolored Water

One surefire sign that you need water heater repair is if you notice that the water from your faucets is a bit discolored. Other people might describe the water as having an odd rusty, red, or brown hue. The bottom line here is that if the water coming out of your hot water faucets is discolored, then you need to quickly look into having someone take a look.

Usually, if the water coming out of your hot water faucet is discolored this indicates that rust is getting into your water supply. Many times your water tank can rust from the inside out, but you won’t see the rust because it is hidden inside of the tank. What you will see is the rusty color that is washing out into your water. Not only is this not safe to drink, but it can discolor your dishes and your laundry if you continue to wash with it. Therefore, you need to take immediate action and get a water heater repair right away.

Variable Water Pressure

There are many things that can cause water pressure issues in your home, but if you notice that you only have problems with your hot water pressure, then this points right back at the water heater in your home. Water pressure issues are frequently caused because of mineral deposits coating the bottom of the tank and interfering with the way water flows throughout the tank. A qualified plumber can help you get to the bottom of your issue.

Visible Signs of Corrosion

Finally, if you see any signs of rust on the outside of your tank, this is a clear indication that there is probably rust on the inside as well. It is also a sign that your tank is aging and can spring a leak at any time. Therefore, you need to call a plumber to come out to your home to evaluate if it is time to replace your tank. If you have noticed this or any other signs that you need water heater repair in Potomac, MD, give Clarksburg Plumbing a call and we will set up a prompt appointment.

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