Understanding The Water Heater In Your Home

By Author: Joseph Wright
Total Articles: 39
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The water heater is an indispensable part of most homes that is used every day. The average lifespan of a water heater is between eight to twelve years. This will of course depend on the quality of the water heaters installation, the severity of local weather, the unit’s design and maintenance performed.

The water heater in your home will probably need to be replaced if it is over ten years old, has leakage near the base of the tank, or has started malfunctioning. Before buying a new unit however, ensure that the cause for the water heater’s problems is not due to an electrical problem. Sometimes a tripped breaker or a blown fuse can cause a unit's failure.

Having a little understanding of the common issues associated with water heaters will help if a problem occurs. The most common issue is water not heating up to the desired level. A defective heating element or a faulty thermostat will most likely be the culprit here.

When your water is not hot enough, make sure the power is on in case you have an electric water heater. Try resetting the thermostat to a higher temperature level. Next, remove dirt ...
... deposits from the tank by flushing the heater. You could consider replacing the thermostat or the heating element.

In case you have a gas water heater, first ensure that the gas is connected. The pilot light needs to be lit. Just like in the electrical heater, you will need to remove the sediment by flushing the heater. Next, after insulating the hot water pipes, you will need to clean the gas burner. It is required that the thermocouple, which shuts off gas automatically if the pilot flame goes out, be replaced. Also try to raise the temperature level on the thermostat.

Another problem you may face from time to time with your water heater may be hissing sounds, caused due to the settling of sediment in the tank. To resolve this issue simply drain out the tank until clear water flows. You can clean the elements by soaking them in vinegar. If the pressure-relief valve leaks, replace it. You may also encounter leaking water supply pipes. For this you can tighten the fittings or replace the fittings after shutting off the water.

Hiring licensed, reliable contractors for your water heater Schererville is important for any small or big issues. For best results, one must identify someone who uses high-quality plumbing fixtures for more durability. The contractor you choose must be prompt, reliable and honest.

The author of this article is associated with Young Plumbing, a reliable and efficient service provider for all your plumbing needs throughout Northwest Indiana including Schererville, Munster and Valparaiso. If you are looking for a plumber Schererville, Young Plumbing is the company for you.