Water heaters are built to last for a long time, but they aren’t immune to problems. There are a variety of different issues that can damage the system if they are allowed to develop. It is important to be able to recognize signs that your water heater is afflicted with one of these problems, so that you can have it repaired before the damage gets worse. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some common water heater problems and their symptoms.
Cracked or Broken Dip Tube
The dip tube is a long tube that extends from the top of the water heater to the bottom of the tank. All fresh water that flows into the tank flows through the dip tube and into the bottom. This is so that new water can be heated as quickly as possible, and so it doesn’t bring down the temperature of the water flowing out of the tank. If the dip tube is cracked or broken, as can sometimes happen, you may find yourself suddenly getting spurts of cold water interspersed with water of the proper temperature. You should call for repairs if this keeps happening.
Sediment Buildup
In a lot of water heaters, especially those with hard water, sediment can build up on the bottom of the tank. Over time, this sediment buildup can become so thick that it actually insulates the tank from heat, preventing the water from being heated properly. If your water heater doesn’t seem to be able to actually heat water properly, this might be the reason. Flushing the tank should solve the problem. Contact a professional right away if you suspect that this is happening.
If your water heater needs repairs, call Sunset Air. We offer a full range of water heater repair services throughout Olympia, WA.
