Taking a hot shower is one of the simple pleasures in life. But what happens when your water heater starts to malfunction? If you don’t have a kettle to heat water manually, don’t worry! We’re Teko.ph, the largest aircon and appliance services provider in the Philippines, with expert tips on how to fix the most common water heater problems:
No hot water
If you’re not getting any hot water at all, the first thing you should check is the power supply. Make sure your water heater is properly connected to its power source. If it’s plugged in and still not working, there could be a problem with the thermostat or the heating element. You may need to replace one or both of these components.
Foul odor
If your hot water has a foul odor, it may be due to bacteria growth inside the tank. This is one of the most common water heater problems when the unit is unused frequently. Flush the tank and add a small amount of bleach to disinfect it. Consider installing a water softener or a UV water purification system if the problem persists.
Strange noises
Banging, popping, or cracking noises coming from your water heater may indicate sediment buildup or a faulty heating element. Drain the tank and flush it out to remove any sediment buildup. If the heating element is the issue, it may need to be replaced.
Water is not hot enough
This is probably one of the most common water heater problems with an easy solution. If you’re getting water but it’s not hot enough, you may need to adjust the temperature. Maybe you don’t remember adjusting it, or a family member did it a few days ago.
Most water heaters also have a thermostat that allows you to adjust the temperature. Make sure that it isn’t set too low. If it is, turn it up and see if that solves the problem.
Leaking tank
A leaking tank can cause significant damage and should be addressed immediately. The cause may be a damaged tank, corroded plumbing connections, or a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve. You may need to replace the entire unit if the tank is damaged. The valve or connections may also need to be repaired or replaced if the problem is with the valve or connections.
If you notice water pooling around your water heater, turn off the power supply and shut off the water source. Then, call a certified technician to come and take a look.
