10 Common Water Heater Problems + How to Fix Them

Water heaters are essential to your home. When they malfunction, it disrupts your daily routine. Here are the ten most common problems we see in Arizona homes.

1. No hot water: Often a pilot, igniter, thermocouple, or tripped breaker. Electric units may have a failed element.
2. Not enough hot water: Sediment buildup or a failed dip tube. Your heater may also be undersized.
3. Water too hot: Thermostat set too high or failing. Set it to 120°F for safety and efficiency.
4. Rumbling or popping: Sediment from hard water. A flush usually helps.
5. Leaking from the bottom: Usually a failed tank. Replacement is needed.
6. Leaking from the T&P valve: High pressure or temperature. Often fixed with an expansion tank or a new valve.
7. Rusty water: A depleted anode rod or corroding tank.
8. Rotten egg smell: Bacteria reacting with the anode rod. A different anode or treatment helps.
9. Low hot water pressure: Scale in pipes or the heater outlet.
10. Pilot won’t stay lit: A bad thermocouple, dirty pilot tube, or venting problem.

If your water heater is over 8 years old and showing several of these signs, replacement may be the better investment. Call Baja Plumbing Co for same-day service.