It's A Matter Of Communication: 3 Things Your Water Heater May Be Telling You

There's nothing worse than having your water heater break down in the middle of a hot shower. Luckily, if you pay attention, your water heater will tell you when it's about to malfunction. The handy guide provided here will help you understand, through sight and sound, the problems your water heater may be experiencing.

You've Got Floaters

If you've noticed rust or dirt floating in your hot water, your water heater tank is probably dirty. As your water heater ages, dirt and water build up in the tank. Usually the debris sinks to the bottom of the tank. However, over time, the debris will begin floating to the surface. When it does, you'll notice that debris in your hot water. You can get rid of the debris, and extend the life of your hot water heater, by flushing out the tank as soon as you see the debris. You'll need a garden hose for this project.

Directions

  1. Turn your water heater off and allow the water to cool for several hours.
  2. Attach your garden hose to the water outlet valve located on the outside of your water heater.
  3. Extend the hose out to your yard.
  4. Turn the water outlet valve to the on position.
  5. The water will begin flowing from the water tank.
  6. Wait until all the water has drained from the tank.
  7. Remove the hose and close the water outlet valve.
  8. Turn your water heater on and allow it to refill.

It Sounds Like a Popcorn Popper

If you live in an area with hard water, your water heater could contain lime deposits. Once your tank is filled with large lime deposits, the particles will begin to break off into smaller pieces. As the water heats up, so do the lime particles. Once the particles heat up, they start popping like kernels of corn. Unfortunately, those popping lime particles can damage the interior of your water tank. If your tank is popping, it's time to have a new water heater installed in your home.

Whistle While It Works

If your water heater is whistling, it's time for a new one. That whistling sound is an indicator that pressure is building up inside the tank. Water heaters have a pressure release valve that is designed to release water when there's too much pressure in the tank. If your water heater has started whistling, you should inspect the outside of the tank. Check your tank. If water is leaking from the base of the tank, or from around the pressure release valve, turn the tank off and call a repair technician.

Your water heater is trying to communicate with you. The information provided above will help you translate the problems your water heater may be experiencing. For more information, contact a company like Kamloops Heating & Air Conditioning.


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