When you turn on the water and expect to step into a nice hot shower, only to be greeted with a blast of icy cold water, it’s a pretty good sign that something’s wrong—either with your plumbing or your water heater. Generally, the problem is with the latter component, but it’s important to know that a lack of hot water isn’t the only sign of trouble when it comes to water heaters in Grand Junction, CO.
Water heater problems tend to be a cause of frustration for homeowners any time they occur, but when you can’t get the hot water you need during the cold winter months, it’s even more exasperating to deal with. The key to keeping the hot water flowing in your home is simple: spot potential problems with your water heater before they have a chance to erupt. Here are a few common signs and symptoms to look out for:
- If you turn your shower on to a hot water setting and it takes more than a minute to provide you with hot water, it’s a sign that your water heater isn’t heating properly. This can be caused by any number of things—most likely a bad anode rod—and can be remedied with simple water heater repair most times. In extreme cases, it could warrant a full replacement.
- If your water heater is older than a decade, it’s a good bet that you’re going to experience problems soon. Water heaters aren’t built to last forever and when they hit the ten-year mark, all sorts of troubles tend to spring up. Plus, it’s a good bet that if your water heater is more than ten years old, there are far more efficient models on the market today!
- Getting metallic tastes or smells from your taps when you turn them on? Seeing small flakes in your water? This is a sign of extreme sediment buildup in your water heater tank and could be the remnants of a degrading anode rod. Have the rod replaced and your tank flushed immediately!
- Is your hot water heater humming heartily? Do you hear a buzzing when it kicks on to heat your water? This is a sign of breakdowns to come and is your first warning that the heating element is about to go south on your unit.
- Leakage, even slight pooling, under your water heater is a bad sign that’s bound to get worse. Consult with a heating contractor about your ability to patch any leaks to prevent them from getting bigger or, in an extreme case, replacing your water heater.
Water heaters in Grand Junction, CO generally operate out of sight and out of mind, but that doesn’t stop them from showing themselves when there’s trouble brewing. Keep your eyes open for the signs and symptoms listed above and make sure to address them quickly, before they turn into a major source of frustration for you and hinder your ability to get the daily hot water you need.