Problems with hot water heaters can include: little or no hot water coming from the tap, rust-colored water, strange-smelling water, water leakage, and strange sounds coming from the appliance such as rumbling or high-pitched whistling.
These problems can be caused by a number of things. Sometimes the issue is simple, such as a hose needing to be replaced. Other times the problem can be more complex, such as a faulty electrical problem that requires rewiring. In the case of little or no hot water, it may be a faulty gas pilot causing the problem, or a faulty electrical thermostat in the case of electrical water heaters.
Issues with water heater repairs and problems can be frustrating, but they can be diagnosed and dealt with by a knowledgeable HVAC contractor.
If any of these problems are of immediate concern to you, shut off the water heater and contact a licensed contractor as soon as possible.
For a gas heater, turn the gas pilot control valve to the “pilot” setting. With an electrical water heater, disable the circuit breaker or fuse powering the appliance. You should then cut off the water supply to the heater until all water heater repairs and problems have been resolved by your contractor.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about repairing water heaters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Solutions Guide.
Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.