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Common Electric Water Heater Problems

As it is with any other appliance, unforeseen things can happen to electric water heaters — and sometimes they malfunction or break for what seems like no reason. As a homeowner or business owner in the Columbus area who relies on your water heater for personal use or production, it is important to be familiar with some of the more common water heater issues so that you might be able to diagnose and repair issues as they occur.

At Only Water Heaters, we provide water heater installation, repair, and replacement services to homes and businesses in the greater Columbus area. That being said, in today’s blog, we would like to discuss some common issues with electric water heaters, as well as some of the things you should look for when those issues occur.

Continue reading to learn more.

Water Is Leaking From The Top

One of the most noticeable signs that something is wrong with your electric water heater is when there is water outside of the drum — especially if it is on the top. Most water heaters that have a tank feature two pipes, the water input and water output, that protrude from the top of the unit. If there is water sitting on the top of the unit, it is a sign that there is a leak or that a valve is not functioning properly.

Potential Issue: Loose or leaky pipes, T&P valve failure, leaky inlet valve

Water Is Leaking From The Bottom

If your water heater is leaking from the bottom, there are two possible causes. One, water heaters naturally form condensation — sometimes in amounts that can visibly pool on the floor. Second, your water heater drum could be leaking. If you determine that it is condensation, you might want to consider installing a drain. If the water heater is leaking from the drum, you will likely have to replace the unit.

Potential Issue: Leaking water heater drum, condensation

No Hot Water

The most common indication that your water heater is not functioning is that there is no hot water — surprising, we know. Luckily, the absence of hot water is a pretty clear indication that the heating element is not functioning. If you lose your hot water in your home or business, there are a couple of things that it could be, with the most expensive damage being heating element failure. Otherwise, it could be the limit/reset switch or a tripped breaker.

Potential Issue: Heating element failure, tripped circuit, limit/reset switch

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Stinky Hot Water

Hopefully, you never have to experience the smell of stinky hot water coming from your faucet. Generally speaking, when a water heater begins to stink, it is because of the presence of bacteria in the tank. Luckily, there are two ways to remove the bacteria — draining the tank and heating the tank to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for a sustained period.

Potential Issue: Bacteria or mold in the tank

For Your Water Heater Repairs, Contact Only Water Heaters

If your water heater begins to leak, smell, or stop producing hot water, contact your local Columbus water heater repair and replacement team, here at Only Water Heaters! Ask us for a free project estimate today.

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