Imagine stepping into your shower only to be greeted by a blast of chilled water after a long day! Well, your water heater’s failure may feel like a disaster since you lose access to hot water for showers, laundry, etc. Water heater problems are quite common, especially in a city like Dubai where hard water is an issue. Before you surrender to cold showers, understanding the potential causes and symptoms might lead you to the right solution.
Thus, you can handle the situation. Additionally, practising the required preventive maintenance can save your water heater from encountering similar problems in future. Let’s get started.
Identifying the Signs of Water Heater Problems
Water heater leaks, insufficient gas, and so on are common keys to a malfunctioning appliance. However, recognising the early signs of water heaters can help you address the instance immediately. Also, you can restrict costly repairs down the line.
According to water heater repair Dubai professionals, the following signs are something you should watch out for:
Inconsistent Water Temperature
You turn on the hot water tap and the water temperature varies widely – one of the most frustrating experiences. However, such inconsistency typically indicates the following common water heater problems:
- Sediment buildup
- Defective heating element
- Thermostat issues
Leaking Water
Do you find puddles around your water heater? It can be a sure-shot sign that your water heater has leaked somehow. Reportedly, water heater tanks can leak due to:
- Loose connections
- Rusty elements
- Failing tank
Be it a minor or major leak, make sure that you address such tankless water heater problems promptly. Otherwise, it could lead to water wastage and health risks.
Unusual Noises
Popping, rumbling, or banging sounds coming from your water heater are alarming, indeed. In fact, these noises refer to the sediment accumulation at the bottom of the water heater tank. If ignored, things can lead to overheating and eventual failure of the heating element.
Foul Odour
Do you sense a smell which is similar to rotten eggs whenever you use water from the heater? Chances are that your water heater has built up bacterial growth. Often, this has a direct link to the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas in the water heater. Apart from the water’s scent and taste, it can negatively impact health.
Rusty Water
Does the hot water come out with a brownish tint? Well, it’s a clear sign that your water heater tank has rust or corrosion inside. If not addressed on time, it can affect the water quality as well as the condition of the complete hot water system.
Common Reasons Behind Water Heater Failure
Since you are familiar with the signs of a malfunctioning water heater, it’s time to understand the root causes. As a result, you can determine the best course of action. According to Water Heater Repair Dubai pros, here are a few common reasons:
Thermostat Conflicts
The regulation power of a water heater lies in the thermostat. If it malfunctions somehow or is set too low then the desired temperature would be far away. And, shivering in the shower will be a part of your routine.
Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals like magnesium and calcium in the form of compounds can accumulate in the bottom of the water heater tank. Consequently, the appliance forms sediment and it can hinder the heater’s efficacy. Indeed, you can sense strange noises.
Worse, sediment can make your water heater overheat, leading to catastrophic consequences.
Ageing Unit
Typically, water heaters flaunt a lifespan of anywhere between 8 and 12 years. In case your unit approaches such a timeline or beyond, the water heater problems might not be fixed. Rather, you must consider a replacement. Indeed, old models are more likely to face water heater leaks and other repair issues.
Heating Element Failure
For electric water heaters, heating elements are responsible for adequate warmth and accuracy. So, you may discover lukewarm or even cold water if the heating elements fail.
Gas or Power Supply Conundrums
Sometimes, water heater problems can arise because of simple incidents: A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse for electric models. On the other hand, gas units might suffer because of the pilot light misconfiguration. Also, the gas supply may be at stake.
How to Fix Common Water Heater Problems
No hot water? Or, you may suspect a leak. Whatever the situation is, you need to diagnose the water heater itself and its associated components. However, Water Heater Repair Dubai specialists recommend proceeding with safety precautions.
Before you start inspecting the appliance, shut down the power or gas at the valve depending on whether it is an electric water heater or a gas-powered one, respectively. Next, you can open the drain valve and allow some water to get out. This prevents scalding, by the way.
Additionally, check if the water heater is still under warranty. If yes, then you should contact the water heater manufacturer for further assistance. Otherwise, you might tamper with the existing warranty. If the water heater is out of warranty then the following steps might restore the appliance to optimal heating.
Watch Out for Water Heater Leaks
Once you ensure safety protocols, inspect the area around your water heater for visible signs of leaks. In case you come across dampness or pooling, it’s best to call in a professional plumber instantly.
Rectify Thermostat Settings
Perhaps, the water heater thermostat sits on the wrong temperature settings. So, take a moment to assess the thermostat settings. For example, if you find the water heater dial to be inadvertently turned down, set it to the desired temperature.
Flush the Tank
Do you suspect that sediment buildup causes the water heater to malfunction? Then, a strategic tank flush might help you to get rid of the issue. However, this trick won’t work for tankless water heater problems.
Here’s what you need to follow:
- Turn off the heater. Simply, switch off the circuit breaker if it’s an electric model. For your gas-empowered water heater, you need to set the thermostat to the pilot configuration.
- After that, connect a hose to the tank’s drain valve.
- Open up the valve and let the water out into a bucket or drain. Stay alert as the water can be hot.
- Once the tank becomes empty, run the cold water supply briefly. So, the cold water will flush away the remaining sediment buildup.
- Afterwards, you must close the drain valve. Disconnect the hose and let the tank refill.
Examine the Heating Elements
Are you comfortable and handy with DIY water heater repair Dubai incidents? Then, you can use a multimeter to analyse the condition of the heating elements. If you face hot water flow in a low volume then it might indicate a faltering lower heating element. However, we recommend professional assistance if it comes to the replacement of any of the heating elements.
Evaluate for Age and Efficiency
If your water heater is near the end of its lifespan, then repairing the unit might be of no significance. Instead of pouring money into repairs, you can invest in a new water heater. So, search for energy-efficient options that will save you money in the long run.
When to Call Professional Water Heater Repair Dubai Services
Intricate water heater problems are difficult to treat on your own. For example, water heater leaks, gas leaks, faulty heating elements, etc. are complicated issues and require expert intervention.
So, if you don’t find the troubleshooting methods to be effective, call professional water heater repair Dubai services. Indeed, a skilled and experienced technician can easily diagnose complex problems and restore the water heater’s optimal condition.
Preventive Maintenance Tips for Your Water Heater
Want to extend your water heater’s longevity? Here are some preventive maintenance strategies that you can implement to avoid future headaches with the appliance.
Regular Flushing
Make sure that you flush your tank at least once a year. This trick will help reduce the sediment buildup and extend the life of your unit.
Insulate Your Water Heater
Do you have an older water heater model? Then, consider insulating your water heater and pipes. Insulating pipes and connections will reduce the loss of heat as well as energy bills.
Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod plays a pivotal role in preventing tank corrosion. So, you should check the anode rod every couple of years. Moreover, it’s essential to replace the anode rod if it’s more than 50% corroded.
Aim for the Right Temperature
Ensure that you settle for a comfortable temperature. According to experts, maintaining the thermostat at around 120℉ will also save energy and reduce the risk of scalding.
On a Concluding Note…
Water heater breakdowns can be frustrating. However, you can make a significant difference with the perfect diagnosis, an understanding of common water heater problems and causes, and the right course of troubleshooting.
If you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional water heater repair Dubai experts. Indeed, those experts can guide you on keeping your water heater running smoothly for the upcoming years.
