Signs Your Hot Water Heater Is Breaking Down
Water heaters pull quite the load in most households. The water that enters your house is usually tempered based on the climate in your community. If you want to transform lukewarm water into hot liquid, your water heater has to put in the work so that you're able to funnel climate-controlled liquid all over your house. Because the water heater is one of those appliances that is usually tucked away in a dark corner of the attic or garage, you have to be aware of the signs of trouble so that you're able to catch them before they get worse. When the following signs show up, it's time to let a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) specialist take a look at your unit.
The Water Just Isn't as Hot as It Used to Be
If you've lived in your house for a significant length of time, you are probably aware of how hot the water can get. The temperature of the water in each home varies based on lots of different factors. Altitude, outdoor temperature, the age of your water heater, and many other aspects come together to determine how hot your water will be when you turn it on.
You typically learn to adjust your faucet so that the water has the perfect heat level for your bath or shower. However, when you find yourself having to twist a little too far to the left or right to achieve the amount of heat that used to only require a fraction of the twisting, it's a major sign that your hot water heater needs to be serviced immediately.
Pay Attention to Strange Sounds
Loud water heaters are typically something found only in scary movies. Your water heater might make a little noise as it's getting cranked up for the day but it shouldn't emit clanging and banging sounds all day long each time you turn on the water.
When you get into the shower or wash your hands in the bathroom, pay close attention to the sounds that you hear. Listen out for dull wails or what sounds like old church bells going off. It could be an indication that your water heater is full of sediment and needs to be cleaned before it goes out for good.
Catching your water heater before it dies can save you a substantial amount of money. Be alert so that you're able to catch the signs and if they appear, seek professional assistance ASAP.