Water Heater Repair Aurora CO doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of resetting the breaker or replacing a fuse.
Other times, the problem is more serious. In those cases, it’s worth weighing the cost of repairs versus replacement. The best way to find out is to speak with a professional plumber.
The thermostat controls the heating element or pilot light for a water heater. Problems with the thermostat can cause the heating elements to malfunction or overheat, leading to a lack of hot water in the home. The most common problems with a water heater thermostat include incorrect temperature settings and faulty components. Sediment buildup in the tank can also cause common issues.
Before attempting to repair or replace the thermostat, you should turn off the power to the water heater by turning off the breaker at the electric panel. It would be best to drain the water heater by opening the pressure relief valve on the top of the unit. Next, check the label on the water heater to determine what voltage it requires. You will need to know this to find a replacement that is the correct voltage for your unit.
After the breaker is turned off, disconnect all wires from the old thermostat and carefully remove it. Note where each wire is connected to the thermostat so that you can reconnect them properly when reassembling. If you need help removing the thermostat, ask an associate at a hardware store for help.
When removing the upper and lower access panels, you should replace them with new plastic covers and insulation. You should also reset the high-temperature limit button, which is usually red, with a screwdriver. Finally, you should test both the upper and lower thermostats using a multimeter to ensure they have continuity. If neither of them has continuity, you must replace them with a new thermostat.
Once the thermostat has been replaced, you can reconnect all of the power wires and the water line. Make sure to test the new thermostat before resetting the breaker. If it does not turn off when you press the breaker switch, you will need to have a qualified electrician look at your electrical system.
Element
Many homeowners give little thought to their water heater, as long as it works. That is until something goes wrong, and they are faced with a raft of problems that affect their quality of life. Hot showers become a luxury, dirty dishes pile up in the sink and laundry machines aren’t as effective at removing stains. It’s important to have your water heater repaired as soon as you notice signs of trouble, as a malfunctioning unit can be a health hazard for your family.
One of the most common problems with a water heater is that it produces insufficient hot water. This can be caused by a thermostat that’s set too low or a gas leak that causes a reduction in available pressure. Depending on the severity of the problem, it could be possible to repair the problem without having to replace your water heater entirely.
Another sign of trouble with your water heater is rumbling sounds that occur as the temperature in the tank rises. The sound is produced when the water clashes against the sediments at the bottom of the unit, and it can get louder as these particles become increasingly encrusted over time. Our technicians can flush the system to remove any mineral deposits that may be present.
If you see puddles of water around your water heater, or notice that your water has a red-like color to it, it’s time to call our experts for a New York City water heater repair. These signs can indicate rust or corrosion within the tank, which will cause the water to be discolored. If left unchecked, this can lead to a complete failure of your water heater, causing serious damage to the rest of your home’s plumbing system.
Pilot Light
The pilot light is the tiny flame that lights gas burners for appliances such as water heaters. In newer gas systems, this flame is no longer necessary because the system uses an electronic ignition. However, many older models still use the old-fashioned pilot light system. A malfunctioning or dead pilot light can make your home inoperable, leading to a variety of problems.
You can try to relight the pilot light yourself if your water heater is gas-fueled and doesn’t have an automatic igniter. First, turn off the gas to your appliance. If the unit is located in a garage or another area without access to a gas shut-off valve, close the gas supply line to the unit.
Locate the pilot light and remove the access panel that covers it. Some panels snap off, while others require a screw or other tool to release. Once the panel is removed, locate the pilot nozzle, which is at the end of a small tube that extends from the control valve. Use a flashlight to help you find it. Light the pilot by pressing the gas regulator knob and bringing a lighter or burning match to the nozzle. Continue depressing the knob for one minute after lighting to ensure that the pilot stays lit and the thermocouple heats up.
If your pilot light is out, it could indicate a problem with the thermocouple, which is meant to shut off gas flow when the pilot flame goes out. It can be clogged with dust, or it might need to be replaced. The safety valve could also be stuck, which would prevent it from closing after the pilot flame blows out. This type of situation is dangerous because it allows combustible gas to escape in your home. A professional should perform a system inspection and replace your thermocouple, if necessary.
Drain Valve
A drain valve is a small device that attaches to the bottom of a water heater tank. It has a threaded opening that allows you to drain the tank when performing maintenance tasks such as flushing out sediment. It’s important to drain your water heater on a regular basis to ensure it remains functional.
Sediment buildup in your water heater tank can cause it to work harder to heat your home’s water, which results in higher energy bills. In addition, it can lead to a clogged drain valve that prevents the water from draining. The most effective way to keep your drain valve in good working condition is by draining the water heater regularly.
You can do this by attaching a garden hose to the inner-threaded drain valve at the bottom of the tank. Once it’s attached, open both the temperature pressure relief valve and the drain valve at the top of the tank, and then close them when the sediment has completely drained out. You can also buy special locking drain valves that allow you to lock them in either the opened or closed position.
If you have any problems with your water heater, it’s important to have a Carter professional plumber take a look at it right away. They can perform a complete inspection of your unit, and recommend any necessary repairs. In some cases, your water heater may need to be replaced entirely. In that case, CityWide Sewer & Drain can handle the removal of your old unit and safely dispose of it according to proper guidelines. They can then install a new and improved water heater that will provide you with many years of reliable service.
Pressure Release Valve
A water heater’s pressure release valve (also known as a T&P valve) is one of its most important safety features. This little-known device prevents the buildup of excessive temperature and pressure inside a hot water heater tank that could cause it to explode and flood your home.
The T&P valve is a metal or plastic lever with a tube that extends down the side of your water heater. The valve is welded to the water heater, and you can’t replace it or remove it. But you can test it to see if it’s working properly. Turn off the water supply and gas or electricity to your water heater, then position a bucket under the discharge tube. Open the valve, and if water flows into the bucket, your T&P valve is working as it should.
Water heater experts recommend testing your T&P valve at least once a year. To do so, you’ll need to drain a small amount of water from the discharge tube into a bucket. You should also operate the valve’s lever and watch for its reaction to ensure that it opens and closes correctly.
If the lever doesn’t react to your action, or you hear rattling or whistling noises coming from the water heater, it’s time for a replacement. Those are indications that the T&P valve is stuck or faulty, and they should be replaced right away to avoid the risk of dangerous water leaks and property damage. If the leak is caused by dirt or rust, you can try jiggling the lever like you would a toilet handle to unstick it. Otherwise, you’ll need to call a plumber for repair or replacement.