Hot water tanks are probably one of the most reliable machines in your home. But there are times when even they stop functioning properly and require a water heater repair service. The question is whether you should conduct the hot water tank repair yourself or call for a professional hot water tank repair. Here are the problems you should call a professional repair service and not attempt to fix it yourself.

Problem: Rumbling Sound From Water Heater
If your water heater is making loud rumbling noises, it means that there is a sediment build-up forming inside your hot water tank. This sediment build-up could also cause the overheating and boiling of water inside the tank

Solution
The simplest solution for this problem is flushing the hot water tank with a gallon of water to remove the sediment. If the problem still persists, as is often possible with older water heaters, it is best to call for a professional hot water tank repair as the tank may need to be repaired or replaced completely.

Problem: Rotten Egg Smell from Water Heater
The possible cause of this problem could be bacteria in the tank due to the hydrogen gas released from the anode of the water heater.

Solution

• Flush the water tank
• Use hydrogen peroxide solution of 2 pints 3% peroxide to 40 gallons of water and let peroxide solution set in tank and pipes for 2 hours.

If the problem persists, replace it with a zinc alloy anode. For this, it is advisable to hire a professional. If replacing the anode also does not work, consider replacing the tank with a plastic lined one. This is also best done by a professional so consider calling a professional water heater repair service.

Problem: Rust Colored Water
Rusty water from the water heater could be caused due to rust formation in the anode or in the hot water tank itself. If not checked in time, the rust can corrode the hot water tank and require complete replacement of the water tank.

Solution
If the rust is due to a rusty anode, consider replacing the anode. You can easily find the replacement anode at a plumbing supplies store.

However, if the rust is due to corrosion of the hot water tank itself, it is time to replace the tank and this is best handled by a professional hot water tank repair service.

These are only a few of the problems that your hot water tank could be facing. Before you realize that your water heater is not working on a chilly winter morning, it is best to contact a professional water heater repair service and get the minor problems fixed.

With many years of use, water heaters tend to show signs of wear and tear and need to be fixed. Before you call professional water tank experts for water heater repair services, here are a few things you can do yourself as quick fixes for your water heater.

Safety precautions

Your water heater operates on electricity, and water and electricity are a fatal combination. To avoid risking an electrocution, turn off the electrical supply to your water heater before you start to work on your water heater repair.

You must also turn off the water supply to your water heater to avoid a major flood in your home.

Fixing leaks

A leaking water heater can cause mold formation, mildew, and even rotting of walls, floors and sub-floors. Leaks in the water heater must be tended to immediately. Water leaks could be typically caused by one or more of the following reasons.

1) Faulty temperature and pressure valve

Place a container under the overflow pipe and open the temperature and pressure valve. Flush it to get rid of debris. If the valve still continues to leak, you need to replace it.

Do not try to stop the leak by capping off the valve as the valve releases excess pressure, which builds up inside the water heater due to overheating. Capping off the valve hinders its ability to release pressure and could lead to an explosion.

2) High pressure of the temperature and pressure valve

If your water heater is set to a high temperature, the temperature and pressure valve will remain open almost continuously to relieve the excess pressure, thus causing a leakage. This can easily be fixed by lowering the temperature of the thermostat. A lower temperature ensures that the valve does not remain open and the leakage will stop.

3) Leaking inlet and outlet pipes

Check the connections of the inlet and outlet water pipes to and from the water heater. If these are loose, it could be causing a leak. Tighten them as needed or replace in case of rusty pipes with holes in them.

4) Leaking water heater tank

Check the interior and exterior surfaces of the water tank carefully for any signs of rust or small holes. These could be caused due to corrosion and cannot be repaired. If you spot even a single hole, you need to replace your water tank. Consult any of your local water tank experts for the best replacement for your old water heater tank.

Rumbling noise coming from water heater

If your water heater makes a rumbling noise when turned on, it could be an indication of sediment build-up in the water tank. Flush the water tank to get rid of the sediment build-up. Repeat once in every three months to keep the build-up as low as possible.

No hot water

For gas water heaters

Check if the pilot light is on, if it is not, turn it on carefully or ask your gas company to relight the pilot light.

Ensure the gas controls are turned on, to the highest levels and check if the water heater is properly connected to the gas control unit.

Inspect the thermocouple. If it is defective, get it replaced immediately.

For electric water heaters

Check the fuse box/circuit breaker. If the water heater repeatedly blows fuses, contact a professional electrician.

Press the reset button to check the thermostat and heating element. If found defective, replace the thermostat and heating element. If the problem still persists, get in touch with a professional providing water heater repair services.

Insufficiently heated water

In the case of both gas and electric water heaters, turning up the thermostat and insulating the pipes connected to the water heater should fix this problem. If water is still not hot enough, consult professional water tank experts for your water heater repair needs.


These quick fixes can save your water heater from an early replacement and save you loads of money. Be sure to consult professionals if you are not skilled to undertake repairs on your own and avoid risking your personal safety.