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DIY Hacks to Easily Fix Common Water Heater Problems

Nicholas Roppo • Nov 17, 2021

You just jumped into the shower, and there is no hot water. The water heater is likely faulty. But you don't have to panic and call the plumber immediately since there are some simple issues you can fix yourself.

Most water heaters are designed to last long. But we need to understand that they also have problems, just like any other home appliance. This doesn't necessarily mean calling a plumber anytime there is an issue –there are some faults you can handle.

Is Your Water Gas or Electric?

The first thing you need to do is determine whether your water is electric or gas by simply looking at the manual or label. Parts of the heater can also help you determine the type of heater you are using. You need to take caution when handling electric water heaters since they're high-voltage to avoid injury or even death.

Let's look at some common water heater problems and simple DIY hacks to fix them.

1.     Water is Cold

For a gas water heater:

  • Re-light the pilot light or flame by turning the pilot switch or knob off for a few seconds before turning it back on.
  • Ensure that the gas valve is on and the supply is still there. You can test the supply with other gas equipment like the kitchen burner.
  • Turn up the thermostat or reset it to match the temperature you want.

For an electric water pump:

  • Check the circuit breaker or fuse box and reset it. You can also replace the fuse if it's completely burned.
  • Adjust the thermostat to the right temperature. You can turn in down the back up until the water heater gets back n.

2.     Your Water is Too Hot

According to the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recommendable temperature for a water heater is 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You wouldn't want the water scalding you. Check the thermostat and turn it down if the temperature is too high. If you aren't sure how to adjust the temperature, you can call your plumber or supplier for some help.

3.     Water Takes Too Long To Heat

Inspect the burners, thermostats, and other heating elements, and replace trivial things like burnt fuses.

4.     Inadequate Water Pressure

  • First, look if the water pressure is low throughout the house. If not, check if you have any blockage in the pipes, closed shut-off valves, leaks, pressure relief, or blocked faucets.
  • Tighten the screw on the shut-off valve to increase pressure, then completely open the valve for maximum pressure.

5.     Leakages

Look for any leakages within the house and see if it's something you can fix yourself. If you have any loose connections, use a wrench to tighten them or replace damaged valves. Call your plumber if the leakage is extreme.

6.     Dirty Water, Discoloration, and Foul Smell

Flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod is a DIY hack to deal with dirty water and bad smell before replacing the tank altogether. Here are some tips on replacing the anode. Also, it's time to replace your anode if you've used it for more than 5 years.

Chlorine can also help clean your water and do away with the bad smell.

7.     Noisy Unit

You might notice some weird noises in your water, pointing to scale having built up in the tank or faulty heating elements. Try completely draining and descaling the tank to stop the noises before calling a plumber or replacing the tank.

8.     Pilot Keeps Going On, and Off or Burner Goes Out

The thermocouple of your gas water heater could be blocked, loose, or faulty and may need replacing. Cleaning or unblocking a clogged or dirty vent is another DIY hack to deal with these issues before seeking professional help.

The Bottom Line

There are some DIY hacks to help fix issues with your water, saving you the cost and time of hiring a professional plumber. But not everyone is comfortable with DIY fixes, especially when the issues seem too big to fix. This is the time to seek the services of licensed plumbing contractors from N&J Plumbing.

Our highly-experienced technicians are ready to give you the best and reliable water heater inspection services and recommend the best solution for your problem. Please don't hesitate to contact us today.

a close up of frost on a window with trees in the background
By Nick Roppo 01 Dec, 2023
As the golden leaves of fall give way to the frosty whispers of winter in Connecticut, it’s time to shift our focus to the unsung heroes of our homes: our plumbing systems. With the crisp chill in the air serving as a gentle reminder, homeowners are encouraged to perform these essential plumbing checks to ensure a warm, comfortable, and hassle-free winter season.  1. Insulate Your Pipes: The First Line of Defense Against the Cold The plummeting temperatures of Connecticut winters are notorious for freezing pipes, a situation no homeowner ever wants to face. To counter this, inspect all exposed pipes in areas like the basement, attic, and under kitchen and bathroom sinks. Foam pipe insulation, a readily available and cost-effective solution, can be your first line of defense. Remember, even the smallest pipe can cause an upheaval if frozen, so leave no pipe behind! 2. Drain and Disconnect Outdoor Plumbing Fixtures Outdoor plumbing is often the first casualty of freezing temperatures. Start by draining garden hoses and, if possible, store them indoors. Shut off the valves to outdoor faucets and drain them to prevent any remaining water from freezing and expanding, which can lead to cracks and leaks. This simple step can save you from unexpected repairs come spring. 3. Give Your Water Heater a Wellness Check A chilly Connecticut winter morning without hot water is a dire situation indeed. Your water heater works overtime during the colder months, so ensuring its efficiency before winter is crucial. Flush out the tank to remove sediment buildup, which can hamper efficiency and shorten the lifespan of your heater. If your water heater is older than 10 years, consider consulting a professional to assess its condition. Remember, an efficient water heater is not just about comfort; it’s also about cost-effectiveness. 4. Clear Your Gutters and Drainage Paths While not directly part of your indoor plumbing, gutters and external drainage systems play a vital role in protecting your home’s foundation and structure from water damage. Ensuring these are clear of leaves, twigs, and debris will prevent water buildup and ice dams, which can lead to more significant issues like roof leaks and foundation damage. 5. Know Your Home: Locate Your Main Water Valve In the unfortunate event of a pipe bursting, time is of the essence. Knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve can avert a minor mishap from turning into a major catastrophe. This knowledge is particularly crucial for those chilly mornings when a frozen pipe suddenly bursts. A quick response can significantly reduce the extent of water damage. Conclusion: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine Taking proactive steps to winterize your plumbing can save you from the headache of dealing with emergency repairs in the dead of winter. Remember, these checks not only protect your plumbing but also contribute to the overall health and longevity of your home. And, should you encounter any issues beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. After all, peace of mind in knowing your home is prepared for the winter chill is priceless. As the adage goes, “A stitch in time saves nine,” and this couldn’t be more true when it comes to preparing your home’s plumbing for the Connecticut winter. So, as you enjoy the last of the autumn hues, make a plan to give your plumbing system the attention it deserves. Your future self, comfortably sipping hot cocoa in a warm, leak-free home, will thank you.
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As the vibrant leaves of autumn give way to the stark, frosty landscapes of winter, homeowners in Connecticut face a unique set of challenges. Among these, the risk of frozen pipes stands as a silent adversary, waiting to strike in the coldest months. This comprehensive guide is dedicated to helping you, the savvy homeowner, navigate the complexities of winterizing your plumbing system. Our aim? To ensure that when Jack Frost comes knocking, your home's pipes remain unfazed, safeguarding your cozy abode from the grip of winter's chill.
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