Virtually every home in America has a hot water heater.Typically they run themselves and never come to mind until there is a problem. For renters, calling your landlord will be the most likely response. For homeowners, replacing a water heater due to a lack of maintenance is undesirable. No matter what category you fall into, you will need to know what to look for in order to identify a problem.
Water heaters make hot water either from electricity or gas. Everyone loves them until the water gets cold. If you are experiencing cold water, ensure that you have not simply used all the available hot water by waiting 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, check for hot water and if there is none present then you have a problem. For electric water heaters it could be a fuse, bad heating element, or maybe just needs a breaker reset. For gas water heaters it could be a pilot light or a fuse. If the pilot light is off and cannot be lit, call your gas company.
If the water is cloudy or rusty, your water tank will need to be cleaned out professionally. This will be most noticeable when the hot water is running and will happen with older water heaters. This should not happen with new ones as they have not had enough time to build up any sediment.
A leaking water heater will require immediate attention. This can cause an electrical hazard with electrical water heaters. If the tank is leaking then it will need to be drained and repaired if possible. This may be a problem that can be repaired or the purchase of a new water heater will be necessary. Whatever the case, being able to identify problems and provide proper maintenance will ensure a long lasting water heater. Go down to your basement or utility closet every once in a while and give your water heater a good inspection.
Does the hot water heater in your Oklahoma City home need maintenance? Call us at (405) 246-9763 and schedule a service call today!
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