Prevent Water Heater Failures: Common Issues & Maintenance Tips | Stars & Pipes Plumbing
Preventing Water Heater Failures: Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Water heaters are essential for daily household activities, but without proper maintenance, they can experience a range of failures. From unexpected breakdowns to costly leaks, common issues like corrosion, sediment buildup, and pressure problems can shorten the lifespan of your unit. At Stars & Pipes Plumbing, we understand the importance of preventive maintenance. Under the leadership of Sean Nelson, a licensed master plumber with over a decade of experience, our team helps homeowners maintain their water heaters to avoid expensive repairs and replacements.
Common Causes of Water Heater Failure
1. Corrosion and Rust
Corrosion is one of the leading causes of water heater failure. Over time, metal components inside the tank, such as the tank lining and anode rod, can deteriorate due to constant exposure to water.
Anode Rod Depletion: The anode rod is a sacrificial component designed to attract corrosive elements and protect the tank. When it depletes, the tank becomes vulnerable to rust.
Tank Corrosion: Rust inside the tank can cause leaks and contamination of the water supply.
Signs of Corrosion:
Rusty or discolored water
Water pooling around the base of the heater
2. Sediment Buildup
Sediment accumulates in the bottom of the tank as minerals from the water supply settle over time. This buildup can reduce the efficiency of the water heater and cause overheating, which leads to damage.
Effects of Sediment Buildup:
Decreased efficiency due to insulation of the heating element
Strange noises like popping or rumbling
Increased energy bills
3. Pressure Problems
Water heaters are designed to handle a certain level of pressure. When pressure becomes too high, it can damage the tank or cause the pressure relief valve to malfunction.
Causes of High Pressure:
Overheating of the water
Faulty or clogged pressure relief valves
Excessive water pressure in the home
Signs of Pressure Issues:
Frequent leaking from the pressure relief valve
Bulging or deformation of the tank
Practical Maintenance Tips for Each Type of System
1. Conventional Storage Water Heaters
Flush the Tank Annually: Flushing the tank helps remove sediment buildup, preventing inefficiency and overheating.
Inspect and Replace the Anode Rod: Check the anode rod every 1-3 years and replace it when it’s depleted to protect the tank from corrosion.
Test the Pressure Relief Valve: Ensure the valve opens and closes properly to prevent pressure buildup.
2. Tankless Water Heaters
Descale the System Regularly: Hard water can cause mineral buildup in the heat exchanger, reducing efficiency. Descaling should be done annually or more frequently in areas with hard water.
Clean the Air Intake Filter: For gas-powered units, a clean air intake ensures efficient combustion.
Check for Leaks: Inspect pipes and connections regularly to catch any leaks early.
3. Heat Pump Water Heaters
Inspect the Condensate Drain: Ensure the drain is clear of clogs to prevent water damage.
Clean or Replace Filters: Dirty filters can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency.
Flush the Tank: Similar to conventional systems, flushing the tank helps prevent sediment accumulation.
4. Solar Water Heaters
Check the Collector Panels: Ensure the solar panels are clean and free of debris to maximize energy absorption.
Inspect the Antifreeze Solution: For systems using a heat-transfer fluid, check and replenish the antifreeze as needed.
Check for Leaks: Inspect the piping and storage tank for leaks that could reduce system performance.
How Professional Maintenance Extends the Life of Your Water Heater
Professional maintenance goes beyond basic homeowner tasks, offering comprehensive inspections and preventive measures that can significantly extend the lifespan of your unit.
1. Early Detection of Problems
Visual Inspections: A professional plumber can identify early signs of corrosion, leaks, or faulty components before they become major issues.
Diagnostic Testing: Advanced tools allow professionals to test pressure, temperature, and efficiency to ensure optimal performance.
2. Anode Rod Replacement
Anode rods protect the tank from corrosion, but they must be replaced periodically. A professional can check the anode rod’s condition and replace it as needed, preventing internal rust.
3. Comprehensive Tank Flushing
While homeowners can perform basic flushing, a professional can conduct a more thorough cleaning to remove stubborn sediment buildup, improving efficiency and reducing wear on the heating elements.
4. Pressure Regulation
Professionals can test and adjust the pressure relief valve and overall system pressure to prevent damage from excessive pressure buildup.
5. Cleaning and Calibrating Components
For tankless systems, professionals can clean the heat exchanger, air intake filter, and burner to maintain peak efficiency. They can also recalibrate thermostats and safety settings to ensure proper operation.
The Financial Benefits of Regular Maintenance
1. Lower Utility Bills
Efficient water heaters consume less energy, which translates to lower monthly utility costs. Removing sediment, descaling, and ensuring components work properly can lead to significant savings.
2. Fewer Repairs
Preventive maintenance helps catch small problems before they escalate into costly repairs.
3. Extended Lifespan
A well-maintained water heater can last several years longer than a neglected one, delaying the need for replacement and maximizing your investment.
Why Choose Stars & Pipes Plumbing for Maintenance?
At Stars & Pipes Plumbing, we offer expert water heater maintenance services to protect your unit and save you money in the long run. Led by Sean Nelson, a licensed master plumber and Army veteran, our team ensures your water heater operates efficiently and reliably.
Our Maintenance Services Include:
Comprehensive inspections
Anode rod replacements
Tank flushing and descaling
Pressure valve testing and adjustments
Cleaning and calibrating components
Areas We Serve
We proudly provide water heater maintenance in:
Lilburn
Duluth
Lawrenceville
Norcross
Cumming
Roswell
Brookhaven
Stone Mountain
Buford
Dunwoody
Roswell
Sandy Springs
Decatur
Doraville
Customer Testimonials
“Stars & Pipes Plumbing saved us from a costly water heater replacement by catching corrosion early. Their team was professional and thorough!” — Lisa M., Lilburn, GA
“Sean and his team flushed our tankless water heater and restored its efficiency. We noticed the difference in our energy bill immediately!” — Mark T., Lawrenceville, GA
Contact Us Today
To schedule professional water heater maintenance, call Stars & Pipes Plumbing at 770-398-STAR (7827) or book an appointment online. Let us help you extend the life of your water heater and keep it running efficiently for years to come.
