Household Utility and Water On Demand
Water heaters are a key component of any home, used every day by every member of the household. Many people don’t realize how important water heaters are until they aren’t working. Whether it is gas or electric, water heater repair or replacement is a matter of significant importance, especially if you or someone else in your household needs a hot shower every morning.
Do You Need Electric Water Heater Repair?
Fortunately, if you’re an astute and attentive homeowner, you’ll notice the following 5 things that will tell you to schedule an electric water heater repair before it actually goes out:
1. Water Heat Fluctuates
If you don’t have any hot water, it could be because somebody just ran a load of dishes or laundry. But if the temperature of the water goes from that wonderful hot water to barely hot enough and back again to exceptionally hot, it is time to either flush the tank yourself or schedule a professional electric water heater repair.
2. Low Pressure
If there is any mineral deposit that is causing the heat to fluctuate, it can also minimize the pressure the hot water is coming out. If you don’t have the same water pressure as you’re used to having, try to do your own electric water heater repair by flushing the tank. If this doesn’t fix the problem, you’ll need to call a professional plumber.
3. Leaking
This may seem obvious that you need an electric water heater repair, but surprisingly, a leaking water heater isn’t always immediately noticeable. Every month, as you replace smoke alarm batteries, inspect your water heater for possible leaks.
4. Smell or Taste
If the water coming from your water heater has an odor or tastes strange, you need to call a professional to inspect your water heater, repair may be possible, starting with flushing the tank and lines first. If that doesn’t make the water smell and taste better, it is time to replace the unit.
5. Unusual Noises
Electric water heaters will make some noises, but if that noise is getting louder every day, from banging and clanging to knocking and popping, it is time to schedule professional electric water heater repair.
Whom do you call for electric water heater repairs?
While an electric water heater is considered an appliance, electric water heater repairs are not done by an appliance repairman in most cases. If you call the basic appliance repair man, confirm they do water heater repairs too. If not, call a plumber.
How much are electric water heater repairs?
There isn’t any set pricing when it comes to household appliance repairs. Many plumbers will have a flat rate for electric water heater repairs, but if the repairs become more detailed, the rate could go hourly plus parts.
How long does it take to repair an electric water heater?
In most cases, an electric water heater repair can be completed within an hour. If it takes longer than an hour, a water heater replacement may be necessary.
What are the most common causes of electric water heater failure?
Unfortunately, no matter what brand of electric water heater you have installed and how well you follow through with having it flushed on a regular basis, they won’t last forever. Some common causes for end-of-life water heaters are:
- Corrosion: The anode rod is inside the water heater tank, and it is a sacrificial part of the water heater. This part should be checked by a professional once a year and replaced. If you got years without checking the anode rod, there is a good chance you’ll be replacing the water heater soon.
- Too High Pressure: When the water pressure going into the water heater is too high, it can cause damage to the water heater, the plumbing pipes, and any water-based appliances that use hot water.
- Sediment Buildup: No matter where you live, your water will have sediment and if you don’t do the recommended annual flushing, it will build up inside the tank until it can’t heat the water anymore.
- Too small: Water heaters come in different sizes and even if it costs more, you need to purchase one that can handle the requirements of your household.
- Venting: This can be dangerous, especially with a gas-powered water heater. You’ll know you have venting problems by seeing burn marks on the exterior of the water heater.
- Age: The average lifespan for any water is a maximum of 12 years. In some rare cases, a water heater may last 15 years. If your water heater is 8 years old or older and showing any of the signs we’ve mentioned, it is time to replace the unit before it does go out.
Keep Your Water Heater Hot and Flowing
Our team is ready to help with your electric water heater repair in Fort Worth, TX. If you need assistance with your damaged or broken water heater please reach out to us at (817) 560-4144 today.