Gas water heater repair usually requires the services of a seasoned professional to correct the problem. Water heater failure can happen at the most inconvenient times. Often, it fails you while you're in the middle of a shower or performing other household chores. Knowing what to expect when the plumber arrives to repair your gas water heater will help you understand what is involved.
Symptoms exhibited by a gas water heater requiring service or repair are:
- No hot water: After turning off the power, water supply and positioning the pilot control valve to the "pilot" setting, the technician will verify the pilot light is lit and check its operation. The pilot light is a small flame that burns around the clock used to ignite the large burner that heats and maintains the waters temperature. They may also tighten, re position or replace the gas thermocouple and/or the gas pilot control valve.
- Inadequate hot water: Common problems leading to a lack or shortage of hot water are a broken dip tube, gas supply or control problems or simple crossed plumbing lines. The technician should inspect the dip tube, verify plumbing is correct and check that the burner is flaming properly.
- Rust colored water: Typically, rust colored water is an indication of corrosion inside of the tank. If the tank itself is not leaking, the technician will inspect and/or replace the anode rod. The anode rod is an aluminum or magnesium sacrificial rod designed to prolong the life of the water heater tank.
- Rotten egg smell: This problem is caused by bacteria growing in the sediment that collects at the bottom of the tank. To alleviate the smell, the system must be flushed and treated with a hydrogen peroxide solution of 3 percent to 40 gallons of water. It may also require replacing the anode rod with a high performance model fashioned out of a zinc alloy.
- Rumbling or popping noises: Sediment build up in the tank is the usual culprit that leads to popping or rumbling sounds in the tank. The sediment buildup causes the tank bottom to overheat and boil the water. Flushing the tank with fresh water to remove the sediment is the normal operating procedure performed by the technician.
- Leaking water: Leaking water around the base of your water heater could derive from several areas. The technician should check all plumbing connections, heating elements and the tank for corrosion to determine the cause.
For answers to your questions about gas water heater repair, and other plumbing needs, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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