Water Heater Repair Basics

Whether you are the one who owns an electric or gas water heater, you should have a professional check your unit to ensure safety. The most common problems are caused by a bad pilot light or the gas control valve. A replacement thermocouple can cost as little as $20. However, a professional repair can cost more than $500.

Regarding water heater repairs, it is best to hire a professional plumber. Plumbers Newport Beach has the knowledge and experience to fix the issue and keep your warranty intact. Also, plumbers can help you choose the right parts for your unit, increasing its lifespan and saving you money in the long run.

The first step in water heater repair is to check the circuit breaker. It can be found in the service panel. Switch it off and on again to test it. Next, you need to remove the access panel and insulation. You can also remove the plastic safety guard. Lastly, you should check the high-temperature cutoff button, which is located just above the upper thermostat. If the button isn’t functioning, it is likely faulty and requires replacement.

If the problem doesn’t happen when the thermostat is set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit, the burner is most likely to be faulty. The gas valve or thermostat could be defective. The thermostat is an easy-to-replace part, which can cost around $20. If the problem persists, you should call a professional to fix the heater.

If you have a water heater, it’s essential to check its anode rod, drain valve, and temperature release valve. If the anode rod is loose, it can cause a leak. Also, a loose drain valve can lead to a loss of hot water. The temperature release valve needs to be checked annually. Performing these maintenance tasks will keep your water heater in good working order and help you save money on energy and water costs.

Another common problem is a water heater that produces an unusual odor or discolored water. These problems are usually the result of a problem with the water source. If the problem only occurs when the water temperature is too cold, you should install a whole-house water filter. Otherwise, you should call a plumber to inspect the whole system. If this does not fix the problem, you should consider having your water heater replaced. This process may be too costly and time-consuming to try on your own.

The most common reason a water heater does not heat water properly is mineral deposits in the pipes. Over time, these deposits build up and cover the water-heating elements. A plumber will inspect the water heater to determine if this is the cause. Sometimes, the problem can be fixed by simply relighting the pilot flame or resetting the circuit breaker.

The average cost of a water heater repair depends on the type of unit. Electric water heaters are relatively inexpensive to fix. It may cost you between $20 and $300 to replace a single heating element. However, if you need multiple repairs, a professional can charge between $200 and $300. A water heater’s thermostat is another small part that needs to be checked. Replacing a bad thermostat can be a very simple fix.

A damaged pressure relief valve can cause a water heater to leak. The valve should be replaced if the tank starts to leak. Occasionally, sediment may build up on the valve. This is a relatively inexpensive repair but should only be performed by a professional. However, if the water heater is a gas unit, there are some additional problems you may need to check out. In that case, you may need to call a plumber.

Another common problem with electric water heaters is a problem with the heating elements. The heating elements heat the water inside the tank and then rise to the top. If the dip tube breaks, cold water will collect on the top and mix with the heated water. A technician should be able to solve this problem easily. Otherwise, the heater may have to be replaced. The technician can also fix the thermostat if needed. So, if you have a broken dip tube, it’s time to contact a water heater repair service provider.

The average lifespan of a water heater is ten to thirteen years. If your water heater is older than 15 years, it may be time to replace it. Newer water heaters are more energy-efficient than older models, saving you up to $700 on energy costs.