What Are The Common Causes Of Water Heater Failure?

Nothing is more frustrating than your water heater giving you a cold shoulder. As a homeowner, it is important to familiarize yourself with the common causes of water heater failure. This allows you to take preventive measures to keep your water heater in good shape and get more years out of the appliance. Below, Mr. Rooter Plumbing Of Youngstown walks you through the common causes of water heater failure.

• Sediment Buildup

Sediment is a well-known and silent enemy of water heaters for several reasons. Firstly, sediment buildup at the bottom of a storage water heater will prompt the appliance to work harder than usual to heat water. This will cause increased strain on the heater and reduce its efficiency over time. If it builds up to severe levels, it can lead to the premature failure of the heating element. Secondly, the unit will use more energy to heat water because the insulating layer at the bottom of the tank contributes to heat loss.

To prevent sediment buildup in your water heater, consider draining the unit at least once a year. It’s also advisable to install a water filtration system and a water softening system to remove hardness-causing minerals. A professional plumber in Cortland can help you with everything from draining your water heater to water softener installation and water filter system installation.

• Element Burnout

Electric water heaters rely on heating elements to heat water. However, these components have a finite lifespan as well. Heating elements may burn out due to excessive use or scale buildup. A water heater whose heating element is burned out is inoperable and will require a replacement heating element or a complete replacement of the water heater. Get in touch with a skilled plumber in Cortland for a professional replacement.

• Anode Rod Depletion

Traditional tank-style water heaters are equipped with a metal rod known as an anode rod. The function of this rod is to defend the appliance against corrosion, rust, and mineral ions that reduce its efficiency. It attracts minerals, rust, and contaminants through a process called electrolysis. The anode rod should be replaced every 3-5 years to protect your water heater from corrosion and rusting. If the anode rod goes bad and you fail to replace it, minerals and sediment will take hold of your water heater and reduce its efficiency over time.

• Pilot Light Problems

A faulty pilot light is a common cause of gas-powered water heater failure. The function of a pilot light is to start the combustion process when gas is released to the main burner. If this light goes out for any reason, it won’t be able to ignite the gas that heats the water. Some of the common causes of pilot light problems include a damaged gas tube, a faulty thermocouple, gas supply issues, and a malfunctioning pilot control knob. Some of these problems are minor and easy to fix, but they must be handled by an expert. However, if the pilot light consistently goes out despite multiple attempts to relight it, get in touch with a plumber in Cortland for water heater replacement.

• Age

Water heaters, like most appliances, have a finite lifespan. Once your water heater reaches the end of its lifespan, it’s best to have a plumber in Cortland replace it; otherwise, you’ll be staring at impending failure and serious inconveniences. When it comes to longevity, tankless water heaters outlast their tank-style counterparts. If you want a hot water system that will serve you for at least 15 years, a tankless water heater is a great investment.

If you’re having trouble with your water heater and need professional help, get in touch with Mr. Rooter Plumbing Of Youngstown. Whether you need quick repairs or you think you might need an upgrade, give us a call today. Our experienced plumbers will be glad to provide you with the perfect solution for your needs.