8 Signs It's Time for Water Heater Repair in Denver

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Let's face it, no one enjoys dealing with plumbing problems. But especially in Denver, where hot showers are a must after a long day, a malfunctioning water heater can be a real headache. The good news is, there are usually signs that your water heater needs attention before it completely leaves you out in the cold (literally!). In this blog article, we’ll be sharing eight common issues that might signal it's time for water heater repair in Denver. By being aware of these red flags, you can catch problems early and avoid bigger inconveniences down the road. 

Telling Signs It’s Time for Water Heater Repair in Denver

Denver's cool mountain mornings and occasional summer scorchers mean our water heaters work hard year-round. But how do you know when you need a professional’s help? Don't wait for a cold shower surprise! Here are 8 signs it's time for water heater repair in Denver: 

1. Lukewarm Showers

No matter how high you crank the hot water knob, your showers are consistently lukewarm. This could be a sign of two main problems. First, the heating element responsible for raising the water temperature might be failing. Imagine a burnt-out lightbulb – it just doesn't provide the illumination you need. 

Similarly, a failing heating element can't bring the water to a comfortable temperature. Second, sediment buildup inside the tank can also be the culprit. Over time, minerals and other particles can settle at the bottom of the tank, which reduces the amount of water that can be effectively heated. 

2. Running Out of Hot Water Too Quickly

If you’re running out of hot water more frequently, especially during peak shower times in the morning or evening, it's a sign your water heater might not be keeping up with demand and it’s time for water heater repair. There are a few possible explanations. 

A faulty thermostat could be to blame. Think of the thermostat as the control panel for your water heater. If it's malfunctioning, it might not be properly regulating the temperature, leading to the water heating unevenly or not reaching its full potential. Another possibility is a leak in the tank. Leaks can slowly drain the hot water, leaving you with less available for your needs. Finally, if your household has grown or you've added new water-using appliances, your current water heater might simply be undersized for your demands.

3. Strange Noises

Your water heater should be a quiet appliance. If you start hearing knocking, banging, or rumbling sounds coming from it, something isn't right. These noises could be caused by sediment buildup inside the tank, similar to the issue causing lukewarm showers. As the sediment settles and expands, it can bump against the tank walls, creating those unsettling sounds. Loose heating elements can also be a source of strange noises. Imagine a loose screw rattling around inside a machine – that's similar to what a loose heating element might sound like. If you’re experiencing this issue, it’s best to call professionals for a water heater repair service. 

4. Water Leaks

Any leaks around the base of your water heater are a red flag and should be addressed promptly. Leaks can indicate a failing tank or loose connections. A failing tank could be due to internal corrosion, weakening the metal, and leading to a major leak. Loose connections around pipes or valves could also be the source of the leak. Ignoring leaks, no matter how small, can lead to significant water damage in your home, so it's important to call a plumber as soon as you notice any moisture around your water heater. 

5. Rusty Water 

Discolored or rusty hot water coming out of your taps is a sign of internal tank corrosion. This happens when the protective lining inside the tank starts to break down, exposing the metal to water. As the metal corrodes, it releases rust particles into the water. Rusty water not only looks unpleasant, but it can also be contaminated and potentially harmful. Additionally, corrosion weakens the tank and increases the risk of leaks.

6. Rising Energy Bills 

If your energy bills are inexplicably increasing, it could be a sign that your water heater is working less efficiently. Just like an old car that uses more gas, a water heater nearing the end of its lifespan or with failing components might require more energy to heat the same amount of water. A water heater repair service might be necessary to restore its performance and bring your energy bills back down. But if it’s beyond repair, you must also be prepared to have it replaced as soon as possible.

7. Age of Your Water Heater

Most water heaters have a lifespan of 10-15 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan and you're starting to experience any of the signs mentioned above, it might be time to consider a replacement. Just like any appliance, water heaters wear out over time. Replacing an aging water heater before it completely fails can help you avoid major inconvenience and potential water damage.

8. Pilot Light Issues (Gas Water Heaters Only)

If you have a gas water heater, a flickering or constantly extinguished pilot light could indicate a problem. The pilot light is a small flame that keeps the gas burner burning continuously. If it's flickering or going out altogether, it could be due to a gas supply problem, like a clogged gas line. 

Another possible cause of the problem could be a defective thermocouple. This device is designed to detect the flame of the pilot light and ensure safety. If the flame goes out, the thermocouple turns off the gas supply to stop any gas leaks. However, if the thermocouple malfunctions, it may erroneously cut off the gas supply, even when the pilot light is still lit.