How To Fix Your Commercial Water Heater
Is your commercial water heater facing some minor issues that you are unsure how to fix? Sometimes, small problems in water heaters are inevitable. For bigger problems, it is important to engage a professional to fix it. However, there are some common problems that can be repaired on your own. Read on to find out more about common problems water heaters face and how you can troubleshoot the issue and fix it yourself.
Unusual Noise in a Commercial Gas Water Heater
Is your water heater making loud and unusual noises? Popping or constant clicking noises mean that the problem probably lies with the heater ignition system. Other noises like banging, hissing, knocking or humming may be a result of a buildup of mineral deposits in the water tank. Mineral deposits can coat heater components. This causes moisture to be trapped between the coating and the element. When the moisture trapped reaches its boiling point, you may hear unusual noises.
To fix this, you simply need to flush your water heater and clean your ignition system or replace the ignition system. Once you have removed the mineral deposits on the heater element and reinstalled it, the unusual noise should be gone. Remember to take note of any leaks and address the problem.
Water Produced is Too Hot
If you find the water heater gets too hot very quickly, the problem may lie with the control thermostat. The control thermostat is in charge of regulating the hot water to a suitable temperature. There may be multiple control thermostats for a commercial water heater. If you want to repair the thermostat, you need to figure which thermostat is faulty. Let the water heater sit for about an hour after running a large amount of water. This allows it to stabilize the temperature. Then, shut off the power and check the thermostats to see if they align properly after coming into contact with the tank wall. Both thermostats should be adjusted such that they have the same settings. Using a screwdriver, turn the blade till you hear a click sound. A multi-meter can also be used. If the contacts do not open when your turn the thermostat to the lowest setting, you will need to replace the thermostat.
Water is Leaking from the Heater
If water is leaking, you will need to determine where the leak is. Possible locations for the leak to occur include the element gasket, the temperature pressure relief valve and the drain valve.
To check the drain valve, take a look at the side of the tank. The drain valve is usually made of plastic. If you see a leak, check if the reason behind it is a sediment buildup by opening the valve. After tightening the valve, see if the leak continues. If it does, the drain valve needs to be replaced.
To check the pressure relief valve, look for a copper or plastic tube that expels discharge. Pressure relief valves are a safety precaution that prevents excess buildup of pressure. If the relief valve is the reason for the leak, you should replace the valve.
If water is leaking from the bottom of the heater, you should check your element gasket by taking off the access covers on the side of the tank. The power should be turned off. Remove the screws holding the cover in place and gently push aside the insulation to see if the element gasket is leaking. If it is, you will need to replace the gasket.
Although small problems can be fixed by yourself, investing in a good quality and durable commercial water heater will save yourself some time from having to fix these problems. Water Heating Direct offers good quality heaters for commercial businesses, and prides ourselves on our top-notch customer service to ensure our customers are satisfied. Feel free to contact us if you have any queries today!