A reliable water heater is essential for daily tasks like showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. But when something goes wrong, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Many Illinois homeowners face water heater issues, ranging from no hot water to strange noises coming from the tank.
At Turner Plumbing, we’ve diagnosed and repaired all types of water heater problems. Here’s a look at the most common issue homeowners experience—and what to do about it.
The Most Common Water Heater Problem: No Hot Water
One of the most frequent complaints homeowners have about their water heater is no hot water or inconsistent heating. This issue is often caused by a faulty heating element, a broken thermostat, or sediment buildup inside the tank.
Possible Causes of No Hot Water:
- Electric water heaters – A tripped circuit breaker, a burned-out heating element, or a faulty thermostat
- Gas water heaters – A pilot light that won’t stay lit, a bad thermocouple, or a gas supply issue
- Sediment buildup – Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and heat output
If you’re experiencing no hot water, check your breaker panel (for electric heaters) or your pilot light (for gas heaters). If those look fine, it’s time to call a licensed plumber for professional water heater repair.
Other Common Water Heater Problems
1. Water Takes Too Long to Heat
If your water isn’t heating quickly enough, the issue could be:
- A malfunctioning thermostat
- A weak or failing heating element
- Too much demand on the system (e.g., multiple people showering at once)
Solution: Adjust the thermostat to 120-140°F. If that doesn’t help, a plumber can replace the heating element or recommend a larger or tankless water heater for your needs.
2. Water Heater Making Strange Noises
A water heater should be relatively quiet, so if you hear popping, banging, or rumbling, it’s likely caused by sediment buildup inside the tank. This occurs when minerals settle at the bottom and harden over time, causing the heating element to overheat and make noise.
Solution: A professional tank flush will remove the sediment and extend the life of your unit.
3. Leaking Water Heater Tank
A leak around your water heater is a serious issue that can lead to water damage and mold growth. The most common causes include:
- A cracked tank (usually due to age or corrosion)
- Loose plumbing connections or faulty temperature & pressure (T&P) valve
- Excessive pressure buildup inside the tank
Solution: If the tank itself is leaking, it needs to be replaced. If the leak is coming from a valve or connection, a plumber can tighten or replace the part.
4. Rusty or Discolored Hot Water
If your hot water looks brown or rusty, it could mean your water heater is corroding from the inside. The anode rod, a part designed to prevent rust, may be worn out.
Solution: Replacing the anode rod can help extend the life of your heater. If the rust is severe, a new water heater may be needed.
5. Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs
A sulfur or rotten egg smell coming from your hot water usually indicates bacteria growth inside the tank, especially if the water is coming from a well system.
Solution: A plumber can flush the system and add a hydrogen peroxide solution to kill bacteria. In some cases, replacing the anode rod with an aluminum or zinc one will help prevent the issue.
How to Prevent Water Heater Problems
Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your water heater and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Here’s what homeowners can do:
- Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment buildup
- Test the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s working properly
- Inspect for leaks and rust around the base and connections
- Check the anode rod every 2-3 years to prevent corrosion
When to Call a Professional for Water Heater Repair
If your water heater is showing signs of trouble, don’t wait until it stops working completely. Turner Plumbing offers expert water heater repairs, maintenance, and replacements for homeowners across Illinois. Whether you need a quick fix or a new installation, we’ve got you covered.
Call Turner Plumbing today to schedule a water heater inspection and keep your home’s hot water running smoothly.
