Hot Water Headache

Have you ever stepped into the shower and waited patiently for the water to warm up-only to realize it wasn’t to? Or have you ever placed your hand underneath a sink faucet that only spouted freezing cold water?

If so, you know just how awful it is to realize there may be something wrong with your hot water heater or water system. Fortunately, if you know what may be causing this problem, it isn’t too tricky to fix.

Pilot Light

If you’re lucky, your water heater’s pilot light may have simply gone out. Once you’ve checked to see if the light is on, all you have to do is read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to relight it. If it’s on, you will need to keep looking to see what issues your water heater is experiencing.

Thermostat Issues

If mildly warm water is coming from the spout even though you turned the faucet to hot, your water heater thermostat may be experiencing a few problems. Locate the thermostat on your water heater, and adjust the temperature. If it continues to produce only warm and cold water-and not hot-you may need to replace your thermostat altogether.

Heating Element

If you’re water isn’t hot enough or if your hot water runs out faster than usual, you may just need to replace the heating element that is on your hot water heater. Generally, heating elements aren’t expensive.

This quick fix may be your solution to hotter water without a high cost.

Gas Heaters

Do you have a gas water heater? You may be out of luck. Gas water heater problems are often more of a hassle to fix. If your gas water heater is experiencing problems, there might be a leak in the gas line. If you smell a “rotten egg” stench around your heater, call professionals immediately. This smell may indicate a dangerous issue, and you will need professional assistance to right the problem.

Sediment Buildup

Hot water heaters are prone to sediment buildup. As time goes on, more and more water contaminants harden and build up at the bottom of your heater. Not only is this an annoyance (oftentimes such buildup creates popping sounds), but it actually reduces your water heater’s ability to do its job: heat water. To fix the problem, clean the water heater regularly.

To clean your water heater, simply turn off the burner and open the cold-water valve and drain valve (both elements should be attached to the hose). Drain your water heater. Allow the water to run through the tank. It may take about 15 minutes to completely flush the heater.

You may not be able to clean away water contaminant buildup if your tank is rusty. If that’s the case, you’ll probably need to replace your water heater completely.

Water Softener

Although it may seem unlikely, your water softener may be the culprit behind ice-cold showers. A water softener converts the insoluble calcium ions in water into sodium ions. Sodium ions are soluble, so they do not build up in the water heater. If, however, you’re water softener no longer properly functions, insoluble calcium ions will build up and begin to cause corruption.
Be proactive, invest in a high-quality, efficient, and expertly installed water softener. Without a proper water softener, you may be accelerating the corrosion process which ultimately leads to a faulty water heater-and cold water.

Fortunately, water softener pros know the ins and outs of plumbing and will help you determine the best solution to your water softener woes. By correctly installing a water softener (or repairing your current system), technicians can correct your hot water problems so you can bathe, shower and live in comfort.

If cold water has led to constant frustration and annoyance, don’t fret. Expert technicians are just a phone call away. Pick up your phone, give them a call, and let them assess your home’s situation. Your water problems may be reversed in no time.