Water heaters are essential for daily life. We use them for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. That’s why when your water heater suddenly stops working, you’re going to want to get the problem solved—and fast. At All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, we are proud to be able to offer a full range of water heater services, for both traditional and tankless models. Keep reading to learn the top signs you’re dealing with a water heater emergency, and do not hesitate to call our experts 24/7 if you experience an urgent water heater issue.

The Top 5 Signs of a Water Heater Emergency

  1. Strange Noises: Some noise coming from your water heater is not uncommon. For instance, that banging you are hearing may just be the heating element reacting to the sediment in your tank. When this happens, you can usually solve the problem by flushing the water tank out. However, if banging, cracking, popping, or rumbling noises persist, you should call a technician, as you may be experiencing a more complicated and dangerous issue in the tank, potentially requiring you to replace your whole system.
  2. Funny-Smelly/Looking Water: Is your hot water cloudy and/or emitting a sulfuric odor? There can be several explanations for this issue, but if that funny look/smell comes with your hot water specifically, there is a good chance your water heater is to blame. You could be dealing with a dirty anode rod—i.e. the component that is supposed to reduce rust and mineral buildup in the tank. Check to see if your anode rod has worn down. If it has, replace it immediately, and if it hasn’t, call a technician to see if you are dealing with a bigger problem.
  3. Leaks: If you have spotted pooling water anywhere around your heater tank, it is likely a leak has sprung in the unit. Leaks are among the most serious water heater issues, so it is a good idea to call a technician ASAP if you suspect you are dealing with one. It could just be that your system’s connectors, pipes, or screws need some tightening, or it could be that there is a more significant opening in the tank, in which case you will likely have to replace your entire system.
  4. Visible Damage: As your water heater heats and reheats water, the tank will expand and contract, which may eventually lead to cracks. In turn, these cracks may lead to the types of leaks listed above, or to issues in the fittings in connections. Another visible sign of damage to watch out for is rust, as this too suggests there is a leak somewhere. And if you notice any other dents, scratches, or cosmetic imperfections in your system, make sure to call a technician. These aesthetic issues may be nothing, or they may be an indicator of a larger problem inside your water heater.
  5. Lack of Hot Water/Fluctuating Water Temperatures: If your home’s water consistently fluctuates between hot and cold, there is a strong chance you are dealing with a water heater emergency. Moreover, if you are constantly having trouble getting hot water, or if you have stopped getting hot water altogether, we can guarantee you there is a problem with your water heating system. Water that is lukewarm and comes out at a lower pressure is oftentimes a sign that the heating mechanism in your water heater is broken. You could also be looking at a thermostat problem, or one of those pesky leaks in the water tank. But whatever the explanation is, make sure to have it inspected by a qualified technician. If your water heater is not more than ten-years-old, and your household has not changed water usage habits significantly, you should not be having sudden problems getting hot water, so it is very important to have a service pro take a look right away.

To learn more about water heater problems and what to look out for, call All Pro Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical at (909) 500-8193. You can also fill out our contact form to request service online.