Whether this is your first Oklahoma winter or you’re a tried-and-true veteran of the winter months, you know how important it is to have a reliable water heater. Now more than ever, homeowners are looking for ways to extend the life of their water heaters in order to save energy and money during these cold winter months.
Water heaters can run into problems at any time, but the winter months can be especially hard on them. From frozen pipes to clogged heat exchangers, it’s important to stay on top of maintenance and repair needs.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most common problems that arise during the winter months and how to identify them. We'll also give you tips that you can use right now to keep your water heater healthy and in good working order.
How Your Water Heater Works
Have you ever given much thought to how your water heater works? Understanding the process can help you spot problems before they become major issues. Here’s a quick overview of how water heaters work in Oklahoma:
Cold water is drawn from your main supply line through a valve at the top of the water heater.
The cold water travels through a network of pipes to the bottom of the tank, which is heated by gas, electricity, or oil.
Once heated, the hot water rises to the top of the tank and is then pushed out through a second valve at the top of the tank and into your home’s plumbing system.
Throughout the day, cold water is continuously drawn in, and hot water is pushed out.
It may seem simple – and that's because it really is! Human ingenuity is truly something, huh? We are lucky to live in a time when this technology is so accessible! A working water heater is essential for keeping your home warm and comfortable all winter long.
Signs There's Trouble With Your Water Heater
While your water heater is designed to keep your home warm and comfortable, there are times when it may not be working as efficiently as it should. Here are some signs that you need to check your water heater right away:
1. The water coming out of the faucet is cold or lukewarm, even after running for a few minutes.
We've all been there – you turn on the hot water and it takes a few minutes for it to warm up. If the water never becomes hot, then something is wrong with your water heater. The culprit may simply be a faulty thermostat that needs to be adjusted or replaced.
2. You hear loud banging, popping, or gurgling noises coming from the water heater.
If you're hearing these kinds of noises coming from your water heater, then something is definitely wrong. You never want to hear any strange noises coming from any appliance, so it's important to get this checked out right away. Often, the first sign of trouble is a strange noise or popping sound coming from the tank.
3. You notice higher-than-normal energy bills.
If you've been getting unusually high energy bills and can't figure out why then your water heater may be the culprit. If your water heater isn’t working as efficiently as it should, then it could be using more energy than normal. This can lead to higher-than-normal bills that can really add up over time – causing your wallet to take a hit!
4. You notice water leaking from the tank.
A leaking water heater can be a sign of bigger problems. If you notice any kind of water leakage coming from your water heater, then it’s best to get it checked out right away before major damage occurs. Leaking water heaters can cause serious damage to your home, so it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible.
Common Water Heater Issues and How to Fix Them
While it’s always best to get a professional to take a look at your water heater, there are some simple fixes that you may be able to do yourself. Here are some of the most common issues and how to address them:
1. The Pilot Light Is Out
If you’re not getting hot water, then it’s possible that the pilot light has gone out. Restarting the pilot light should fix this issue. This can often be done by simply lighting the pilot light again. Depending on the type of water heater you have, this may require you to use a match or lighter. However, most work with a switch that simply needs to be primed and then turned on.
2. Your Water Heater Thermostat Is Set Too High
If the water coming out of your faucets or shower heads is too hot, then it’s possible that the thermostat has been set too high. If the setting is too high, then the water will become too hot. This is a simple fix: lower the thermostat by a few degrees until you get to your desired temperature. If you find the hot water is running out when taking a shower, then you may need to install a temperature-limiting valve.
3. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can build up in the tank of your water heater. This is a common issue that can be easily fixed by flushing out the tank and then refilling it with fresh water. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, contact a professional to take care of it. They can also inspect the tank to make sure there are no other problems that need to be addressed.
4. Age
Unfortunately, all water heaters have a lifespan. After about 10-15 years, it’s time to consider replacing your water heater with a newer, more efficient model. If you've been having issues with your current water heater and it's been around for more than a decade then it may be time to replace it. Newer models have been designed to use less energy and provide improved performance.
4 Tips to Keep Your Hot Water Heater in Good Shape
Now that you know how to spot problems and fix some common issues, here are a few tips on how to keep your water heater running smoothly:
1. Insulate Your Pipes
Insulating your pipes can help keep the hot water in your tank warm for longer. In the winter, insulation can help limit the amount of energy your water heater needs to use – allowing it to run more efficiently and last longer. If pipes are located in cold areas of your home, then you may need to hire a professional to insulate them properly.
2. Install A Pressure Relief Valve
It's important that pressure doesn't build up inside the tank of your water heater, as this can lead to major damage and even explosions! Installing a pressure relief valve is a simple way to help ensure that pressure stays at a safe level.
3. Check Your Anode Rod
The anode rod inside your water heater helps protect the tank from corrosion, so it's important to keep it in good condition. Inspecting and replacing the anode rod every few years can help extend the life of your water heater.
4. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Finally, it’s important to have your water heater inspected and serviced every so often by a professional. This can help ensure that everything is running correctly and that any potential problems are caught early on before major damage occurs. Regular maintenance can also help you save money in the long run, as it can help prevent major repairs or the need to replace your system.
If you need emergency water heater assistance, call BL3 Inc.
When you live in what feels like the ice storm capital of the world, you need to be able to rely on your water heater during the winter months. There's nothing worse than having a broken water heater in the middle of winter, so it’s important to be aware of any potential signs of trouble and take steps to keep your system running efficiently.
Unfortunately, even with regular check-ups, water heaters can still suffer from unexpected issues that require immediate attention. If you find yourself in this situation, then you can count on BL3 for 24/7 emergency service and repair. Our team of experienced technicians will come to your doorstep and get the job done right – so you can have peace of mind that your home is warm and cozy.
We also offer year-round maintenance plans so you can make sure that your water heater is always running smoothly. Whether your water heater is on the fritz or you need other plumbing services, we’re here to help.
Contact us today and have your water heater issues taken care of quickly and professionally!
