DIY Hacks to Easily Fix Common Water Heater Problems

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.

