2007-05-17 04:06:17 · 10 answers · asked by Charlie B 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
If the heater is leaking, it needs to be replaced.
If you are getting hot water, but it's not lasting as long as it used to, you probably need to replace a heating element. It's cheaper than putting in an entirely new heater.
If the water isn't getting hot enough anymore, you may need to replace a heating element or you may just need to turn up the temperature on the water heater. It is also possible that the thermostat on the water heater has gone bad.
If it takes a long time for the hot water to start coming out of the faucet, you don't have a problem related to the water heater. It's probabaly just a long way between the water heater and the faucet.
If you don't do plumbing yourself, you'll probably have to call somebody to help you with almost any of these issues. Good luck!
2007-05-17 04:20:46 · answer #1 · answered by Tunsa 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
USA If the tank leaks water, it must be replaced. There is no way to repair a leaking tank.
If you are not getting hot water, there are different reasons for that. For electric heaters, it could be bad thermostats or elements, and they can be replaced. For gas fired, it could be the pilot went out or a bad thermostat.
If you are not getting enough flow or pressure, the tank might be clogged up with sludge. There should be a drain valve at the bottom of the heater that you can open and drain the heater. Flush all the dirt out by shutting down the heater, and draining it completely after the water has cooled (usually the next day). Add a few gallos of water, and drain it again. If there is stii dirt in the water, open the drain and add water at the same time, flushing it until the water is clean. Fill the unit back up and turn it on.
2007-05-17 14:10:34 · answer #2 · answered by Dave 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The obvious thing would be that you are no longer getting hot water. If it is electric, it could be as simple as replacing the heating element(s). Most water heaters have a life span of about 7 to 10 years. If properly maintained (flushing and draining at least once a year) this may be extended. If it is older than 10 years, it could be the dip-tube has deteriorated. There was a legal action taken for this problem. The newer units are much more energy efficient so if it is getting near 10 years old, replacing would be a good idea.
2007-05-17 04:17:59 · answer #3 · answered by sensible_man 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have an electrician troubleshoot it. If it's tripping the breaker, it could be one of the elements opened up, causing the other element to work extra hard to keep the water warm. The electrician should turn off the breaker to the water heater, and with an ohmmeter, measure across one element at a time. If it's opened up, or calcium has shorted it more than it's supposed to be, he should be able to tell and replace just the element after turning off the water supply to the water heater and draining the tank. If it has too much buildup on the bottom (which can be seen when draining, also when taking out the bad element), it may need replacing. Any leaks on the tank will require it to be replaced. Also, if it's working well and just costing lots of $$, try having your serviceman (or yourself) turn the temperature down a bit.
2007-05-17 04:14:32 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's good preventative maintenance to replace your water heater at the end of its warranty period. If you go longer than that, you're doing well, but it's a gamble. Good maintenance includes draining the sediment at the bottom of the tank every six months. Install a bucket under the drain spout and open it slowly ~ THE WATER WILL BE HOT. Drain the water for a few moments, until the water runs clear. You'll see the sandy debris in the bottom of the bucket.
Alternatively, replace the water heater when it's leaking or the restoration rate of hot water becomes unsatisfactory.
Always use a registered plumber for gas fired units. Electrically powered units are replaced by either registered plumbers or registered electricians.
2007-05-17 04:23:22 · answer #5 · answered by ISaidItSoItIsSo 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Replace the water heater only if it leaks, is badly rusted or is no longer big enough due to renovations or change in family size. Other than that, repairs are more efficient.
2007-05-18 02:04:21 · answer #6 · answered by itsmyitch 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My hot water heater's water is to hot and I turned the thermostat down but that doesn't help. What's the answer ?
2013-11-08 13:01:51 · answer #7 · answered by Barbara 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Rusty bottom, hot water takes a long time to heat, lime build up
2007-05-17 04:15:56 · answer #8 · answered by Tutto Bene 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your water is not hot or if you have hot and cold spurts in you shower or if you are just not satisfied with its performance
2007-05-17 04:15:22 · answer #9 · answered by falcon 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It leaks or your water is cold.
2007-05-17 04:13:58 · answer #10 · answered by ? 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋