What Are The Signs Of A Damaged Water Heater?

No matter how well you think your water heater is functioning, it is always good to know the signs of a damaged water heater. Should you let a damaged water heater go unchecked, it might eventually be permanently damaged, leading to expensive repairs or needing to buy a completely new unit altogether. However, if you know how to check on the condition of your water heater yourself, you won’t need to keep replacing it every few years. To know what to look out for, here are 3 important questions to ask yourself to know if your water heater is damaged.

Is the Water Discolored?

First, be sure to check the color of your water. A tell-tale sign that your water heater may not be working properly is if the water appears to have a brown or rusty color. Though this could be due to several different causes, abnormal water coloration may well be a sign that your water heater is starting to corrode, or that your water is being contaminated by sediment or other pollutants. In any case, be sure to check your water heater for signs of damage if you notice that your water is anything less than sparkling clear.

Is the Water Cold?

Now, check all around your house to make sure that hot water isn’t currently being used for other activities like washing dishes or laundry. Though multiple people using hot water simultaneously can deplete your hot water supply every now and then, not having regular access to hot water might be a sign that your water heater is malfunctioning. To be sure, you may even wish to turn your heater on and let the water run for a little while – if it’s still cold, you’ll know it’s time to get your water heater checked by a reputable professional. The cold water flow could be due to a bad energy supply, damaged tubing, or malfunctioning heating elements within your water heater.

Is the Heater Leaking?

Though a couple of water droplets on the floor near your heater might not seem like cause for concern initially, leaving it unchecked could make things worse in the long run. Not only do leaks damage your water heater, but if you leave the water as is, it can severely damage your home’s floor, walls, or even start a mold problem. Depending on which part of the water heater the leak is coming from, the fix can be as simple as a DIY drain valve repair, but if the leak is coming from the main body of the heater, you might need a completely new unit.

No matter the condition of your water heater, it is always good to have a trusted professional like Water Heating Direct by your side. Our team of qualified and experienced professionals will be more than happy to lend their expertise to solve any water heater issues you might have. If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you, check out our website today!