If your hot water isn’t as hot as you like it to be, it could be because your water heater needs some repairs. Forget about going to bed with cold water when you’re used to hot water from a central heating system or your own private boiler. Even if you run the cold water for just a few minutes or hours at a time, it won’t take long before you discover that the temperature is far too low. The same goes for water that’s not as clear as you’d like. Whether your water is discolored, cloudy or even smells sour, there could be an underlying issue with your water heater that requires maintenance attention.

Check for signs of leaks

It might not seem like it, but even a small water leak can lead to problems with your water heater. If you notice small drips or puddles that never seem to go away, that could be a sign that there’s a small leak somewhere in your plumbing system. Since water heaters are often hidden under floors and in crawl spaces, it can be difficult to pinpoint where a problem is coming from. Start by inspecting your water supply lines and making sure they aren’t damaged or leaking. If you find that these pipes are fine, it’s time to look at your water heater for more clues.

Check and clean the thermostat and burner

The thermostat and burner on your water heater are two of the most important components. The thermostat controls the temperature of your water by regulating the amount of fuel flowing to the burner. If the water in your home is too cold, it’s possible that you have a faulty thermostat or the thermostat is set too low. If the burner is dirty or clogged, it could be the cause of a low water temperature.You can test the burner by adjusting the thermostat. If the water gets hot enough when the burner is off, then you know that the burner is clogged or dirty. You can clean the burner yourself, or you can contact a plumber.

Check and clean the thermostat wires

Even when the burner and thermostat are clean, the thermostat wires may cause a problem. If the wires are old and worn, they could cause the thermostat to malfunction and not regulate the water temperature properly. If the wires are connected to the burner, they can become damaged by the burner’s heat.

Check and replace the anode rod

An anode rod is a special metal mesh that’s designed to break down harmful contaminants found in your water. These contaminants can cause problems with the water heater, including discoloration and scale build-up. An anode rod may also need to be replaced every few years, depending on how often your water has high levels of contaminants.If you’re experiencing problems with your water heater, it may be worth replacing the anode rod to see if that fixes the problem.

Install a new water heater

If your water heater is old and in need of repairs, or if you want to replace it with a new model, it’s best to hire a plumber. Older water heaters may have lead in them, or they may not be up to code.A new water heater will save you money in the long run by providing hot water at a higher temperature.

Conclusion

Water heaters are essential appliances in every home, and they should be maintained on a regular basis. If you notice that your water is taking longer to reach the desired temperature, or if it’s not as hot as it used to be, consider having it inspected.If your water heater is working properly, but you still notice problems with the quality of your water, there are a few things you can do at home to improve the situation. If you notice that the water in your home is discolored or has a foul smell, there may be a problem with your water supply.

Frequently Asked Question

While you technically can install a hot water heater yourself as a homeowner, the likelihood that this is a good or safe idea is very slim. Trust the professionals with your hot water heater installation to make sure it's done correctly. You wouldn't want to cause yourself or your family any harm.
The higher cost is a result of a more labor-intensive set-up, as new gas and water lines are required for installation. For a new tankless water heater, new electric wiring will need to be installed.
Turn off all water supplies in the house. Turn on all the hot water faucets in the house in order to drain what is left in the existing hot water heater. Then, disconnect the water line that connects the water heater to the rest of the house. There is often a connection on a hose that you can simply unscrew.
These heaters can be fueled by electricity, gas, or liquid propane and installed in many areas of your home. The national average cost to replace a 50-gallon water heater is $1,100 to $2,800, with most people paying around $1,800 for a direct replacement of a 50-gallon gas hot water heater using the same model.
  • Your older water heater is getting up there in age
  • It's making strange noises
  • You're getting rusty water out of the tap
  • Your hot water doesn't last as long as it used to
  • There are water puddles around the unit
120 degrees Fahrenheit is the safety recommendation against scalding, but 140° is the common default setting. Most experts agree that anything below 120 degrees creates a risk for bacteria to develop inside your water heater from stagnant water, such as legionella that causes Legionnaire's disease.
Turn up the thermostat on the hot water heater. One of the easiest ways to make a hot shower last longer is by using less hot water while it's at a higher temperature. To do this, turn up the temperature on the thermostat that's attached to the hot water heater tank. (Not the thermostat on the wall.)
Sediment buildup shortens the life of your water heater and adds to your energy bill by reducing its efficiency. Draining two or three gallons of water is usually enough to flush out sediments, but always let the water flow until you no longer see particles in the bucket. Regular water heater maintenance will always extend its lifespan.
  • You're overusing hot water.
  • The water heater tank size is too small for your household.
  • Your hot water heater is tankless.
  • Sediment or minerals have built up in your water heating system.
Soft water can actually corrode the water heater anode faster. When the anode wears down, the corrosive elements will move on to the tank. So if left alone, a water softener system can actually shorten the lifespan of a water heater.