Water Heater Repair in Rockdale, newton and Lithonia

What are signs you might need water heater repair?

Water heaters can show signs of issues prior to breaking down. A few things you want to look for include sudden change in water pressure, inconsistent water temperature or discolored water. Below we break down some of the more common water heater repair issues and their causes:

1. Gas Valve Replacement. When the gas control valve isn't working or has issues, the most complaints are there is no hot water or the hot water doesn't last long enough. The first step is to check if there is any gas supply disruption or issues with the pressure. If the pilot does not stay lit, you could potentially have a problem. If you do not have experience in replacing gas valves, we highly recommend contacting a professional or reaching out to us for help!
   
   
2. Gas Thermocouple Replacement. One of the major causes for pilot lights not staying lit is a worn-down thermocouple. The thermocouple is a sensing tube on gas water heaters that senses when the pilot light has flame, and shuts off the gas when pilot has been extinguished. A professional can determine if blockage has occurred or if there might be time for a replacement.
   
   
3. Thermostat Replacement. Modern residential water heaters will have two heating elements and two thermostats. On the side of electric water heaters, there are two panels which house the thermostat and heating element. The upper thermostat is larger and controls the lower thermostat. It's rare that both will fail simultaneously, but it is usually best to replace both if one does go down. When an upper heating element or thermostat fails, the water heater stops producing hot water. If the lower element or thermostat fails, the top thermostat and element will continue to heat water in the upper half of the hot water tank. This is typically the case when homeowners notice the hot water runs out quickly.
   
   Gas water heaters use a different type of thermostat system. On most gas water heaters, the gas control valve, which includes both a thermostat and a heat limiting device, are located on the outside of the unit, near the bottom. It can be identified as the component with the controls for temperature and the pilot light.
   
   If the thermostat on a gas water heater goes bad, you will have to replace the gas control valve component.
   
   
4. Heating Element Replacement. A water heater element is one of the parts within the cylinder of a water heater that provides heat to the water inside the tank. It is actually a metal rod either straight or in spirals that is directly immersed into the liquid. Electricity is used to heat up the device that activates the heating element, which then raises the temperature of the hot water. Depending on the size, a control mechanism is provided for managing the temperature of the device.
   
   
5. Water Heater Flushing. Flushing the water heater is a preventative measure that can help avoid future issues. We typically recommend flushing your water heater at least once per year. Corrosion can occur if left untreated or the sediment can block or clog the pressure and the relief valve.

At Rockdale Plumbing & Drain, you can trust the professionals to handle your water heater repair needs without having to try and diagnose on your own or put yourself at risk! Reach out and schedule a free consultation!