Your water heater is a vital appliance in your home, ensuring you have a steady hot water supply.
Your water heater is a vital appliance in your home, ensuring you have a steady hot water supply. However, even the most reliable heaters can demonstrate signs of wear and tear over time. If you are experiencing a significant decrease in your hot water supply, addressing this problem is crucial. In addition, running out of hot water sooner than expected or lacking any hot water can disrupt your daily routines and comfort. Keep reading to learn the several potential culprits of a malfunctioning water heater.
Broken Thermostat
Your water heater’s thermostat controls the water temperature inside the tank. If it’s not working correctly, it can trigger the water to either be too hot or not hot enough. Also, this inconsistency in temperature can make it challenging to maintain a steady hot water supply.
Faulty Heating Element
There are one or two heating elements within an electric water heater that are responsible for warming the water. Over time, these heating elements can burn out or degrade, minimizing the unit’s ability to heat water effectively. In addition, a malfunctioning heating element can lead to insufficient hot water production or no hot water at all.
Sediment Buildup
Moreover, sediment naturally gathers at the bottom of the water heater tank over time. This sediment has minerals and debris from the water supply. When the sediment layer thickens, it may insulate the heating element from the water, minimizing its efficiency. As a result, this buildup can create a crackling or popping sound when the heater is running, leading to a declining hot water supply.
Tank Size
It’s also worth considering whether your water heater’s tank size fits your household’s hot water demands. If your family has grown or hot water usage has increased dramatically, a larger heater might be necessary to meet your needs.
Water Leakage or Insulation
In some cases, a water leak in the pipes or poor insulation connected to your water heater can contribute to heat loss. This makes it seem like you are running out of hot water faster. So, inspect the area around your heater for any signs of leaks or moisture.
Overall, consult your professional plumbing technician at B&D Plumbing to diagnose and address these problems. Remember that regular maintenance and flushing of your heater can help prevent sediment buildup and extend the unit’s lifespan. This will ensure a consistent and reliable hot water supply.
Get in Touch With B&D Today!
Dealing with any plumbing concerns that require a professional to step in? Struggling with an absolute plumbing emergency that can’t wait? Let B&D Plumbing know. B&D Plumbing Inc. services the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area, including Maryland and Northern Virginia. Get in touch with us by calling (301) 595-1141 or follow us on social media including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. As a small, family-owned business, we understand how important your home is—and we offer exceptional service that matches!