Aside from your heating system, your water heater is the second most important source of comfort in winter. As temperatures drop, incoming groundwater becomes much colder, forcing the unit to work harder and longer to deliver hot water. Meanwhile, this is also the time when households use more hot water. These factors can put added strain on components and accelerate wear and tear. This is why a water heater failure is far more likely to occur during the colder months.
While many water heater problems can be minor, others can lead to serious issues if not taken care of. Water heater failures can contribute to significant residential damage. Understanding the common winter-related stressors on your water heater can help you take the preventative steps to avoid disruptions, keep your property safe, and ensure a steady supply of warm water all season long.
How to Know You Have a Water Heater Problem
One of the worst times of the year to have a water heater problem is winter. Let’s examine how you’ll know your water heater is not working properly.
Lack of Hot Water
One of the most obvious signs that you have a problem with your water heater is turning on your tap and finding the water doesn’t heat up. In some cases, your water heater pilot may not be lit, which is a relatively easy fix. On electric models, a tripped breaker or faulty heating element could be the cause. However, the absence of hot water could indicate a more serious issue with your water heater, such as a failed thermostat, heating element, or gas conrol valve.
Low Water Pressure
Another sign that something could be wrong with your water heater is low water pressure. Granted, this issue alone doesn’t mean that there is something wrong with your water heater. Low water pressure could be related to something else with the plumbing, such as a partially closed shut-off valve, pressure regulator problems, or mineral buildup in the pipes. If low water pressure only occurs when using hot water, the water heater could be the culprit.
Discolored Water
Changes in water color could also indicate a problem with your water heater, especially if the discoloration only appears when you use hot water. Typically, the cold water continues to run clear, while the hot water looks reddish, yellow, brown or even cloudy. These color changes oftenresult from rust inside the tank or sediment that has accumulated in the water heater. Older water heaters are particularly prone to this as internal components corrode over time.
Strange Odors
If you notice a rotten-egg smell when running the water, (particularly hot water) this could indicate that your water heater is the source. One of the most common reasons for this odor is the corrosion of an anode rod. As the anode rod breaks down, it can react with naturally occuring sulfates in the water, creating conditions for odor-causing bacteria to thrive. The bacteria convert sulfates into hydrogen sulfide gas, which produces the unpleasant smell. This activity typically occurs when you haven’t used your water for a while, such as when you’re away on a vacation or when your water heating setting is too low to inhibit bacteria growth.
Leaks
In most instances, a water leak is a sign that something isn’t working properly wrong, especially with a water heater. The leak could be a minor issue or it can point to a more serious issue that requires replacement. Here are a few reasons why your water heater may experience leaks.
- Loose connections or valves
- Malfunctioning temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve
- Internal corrosion and tank deterioration
- Sediment buildup inside the tank
Addressing a water heater leak as soon as possible will prevent water damage to your home and unnecessary high energy bills.
Unusual Noises
Almost every appliance will make some noise. In the case of a water heater, it is normal to hear soft humming sounds. However, there may be trouble if you hear crackling, hissing, whistling, popping, or banging noises. Such noises could indicate sediment buildup, restricted water flow, high water pressure, or a leak. If you notice new or persistant noises, it’s a good idea to have your water heater serviced.
Higher Energy Bills
While higher-than-normal energy bills compared to previous years don’t always mean there’s a water heater problem, it could be a clue that something is wrong. When a water heater has to work harder to heat water, it may use more energy than usual. Poor or old insulation may cause the water heater to lose heat more quickly, forcing it to turn on more frequently and driving up costs. A faulty thermostat can also increase unnecessary energy consumption. The buildup of sediment within the tank forces the heating element to work harder and longer to heat up the water, thereby increasing the cost of your energy bill.
What Causes Water Heater Issues
Understanding the reasons why water heater issues arise can help you spot small problems before they turn into bigger ones. Here are the most common causes.
Heating Element Problems
The heating element is a crucial component of electric water heaters, responsible for heating the water. If an element becomes worn or damaged, you may notice inconsistent water temperatures or a reduced supply of hot water. In some cases, the water may not heat at all if the heating element has failed.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
The thermostat controls when your water heater turns on and off. The most obvious problem will be that the water isn’t heating at all. A malfunctioning thermostat won’t detect that the water is cold. Therefore, it will never trigger the heating system to run. On the opposite end of the spectrum, a malfunctioning thermostat may also cause the water to heat beyond its set point, resulting in excessively hot water that can scald you while in use.
Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals like calcium and rustmay settle at the bottom of your water heater, creating a barrier between the heat source and the water, which forces the unit to work harder. This can lead to efficiency issues, which will be most notable in excess charges on your utility bill. You may also have to replace your unit sooner than anticipated due to corrosion.
Corrosion
Corrosion can develop as a water heater ages, especially if the anode rod has worn out and needs to be replaced. Older units are much more susceptible to corrosion, which eventually leads to leaks or tank failure.
Bacterial Growth
In some situations, bacteria can grow inside the water heater tank, which may cause an unusual odor similar to rotten eggs or affect your water quality. Bacteria are more likely to develop when water sits unused for long periods of time or when the water heater temperature is set too low.
Age of Unit
Most water heaters last eight to 12 years with proper maintenance. As a unit reaches the 10-year mark, it’s smart to start to considering getting it replaced as older units become less efficient and more prone to problems.
Ways to Minimize Water Heater Issues in Winter
Take these preventive measures to ensure your water heater continues to run smoothly during the coldest months.
Flush the Tank
An annual flush helps remove mineral deposits and sediment from your water heater, enhancing its efficiency and extending its lifespan.
Check the Anode Rod
The anode rod is often called the “sacrificial” rod because it corrodes over time to prevent the tank from rusting. Made of magnesium, zinc, or aluminum, the rod should be replaced when significantly corroded or heavily coated with minerals. Replacing a worn anode rod can prevent premature tank corrosion.
Reduce Temperature
Another way to ensure you don’t suffer for days or weeks without warm running water is to adjust the temperature on your water heater. Many people prefer a water heater setting of 140°F, but lowering it to 120°F will still be comfortable, helps reduce energy consumption, and ensures safe water temperatures.
Insulate the Water Heater
If you have a water heater in a colder part of your home, such as the garage or basement, it is a good idea to insulate it. Insulating the tank will help your water heater retain heat, function properly and reduce energy bills.
Keep Pipes Warm
Insulating exposed pipes, particularly those located along the exterior walls, can help prevent freezing, reduce strain on your water heater, andminimize the risk of burst pipes, which can lead to significant water damage. Keeping your home’s temperature at 55°F or higher also helps protect pipes. On extremely cold nights, allow your faucets to drip to help prevent pipes from freezing.
Get Regular Inspections
Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to minimize problems with your water heater. It is recommended to have your water heater serviced at least once a year to ensure it is functioning correctly. If you have hard water, you may need more frequent service to manage mineral buildup.
Replace an Old Water Heater
If your unit is reaching the end of its lifespan and problems arise during winter, it’s time to consider replacing your water heater. It is likely more cost effective to replace it entirely rather than seeking professional repairs.
