While you may notice things aren’t right with your water heater, it’s difficult to know whether you need water heater repair or if it’s something you can leave on the back burner. Water heaters are complex systems prone to many issues, some of which come with high costs or can cause health hazards. The sooner you get your water heater looked at by HVAC professionals, the lower the repair costs and the less likely you’ll need a replacement.

As a leading plumbing maintenance professional, ProFlo has a deep knowledge of water heaters and their many symptoms. Read on to learn the top five signs that it’s time to seek professional water heater repair services.

1. Discoloration or Foul Odors

If you notice discoloration or foul odors in your water, this is a sign that your water heater may have rust or bacteria buildup. A muddy color to your water, for example, typically points to a potential problem with your tank’s anode rod, which prevents bacteria growth and eliminates rust from your water heater.

Smells are also a common sign of issues that need immediate attention. If you notice a rotten egg smell, it may suggest sulfate bacteria in the tank, which produces a foul-smelling gas. This substance can corrode pipes as well as cause health issues like shortness of breath. 

It’s important to note that if the issue is only present in hot water, it’s likely due to problems with your water heater. If you notice discoloration or foul smells in hot and cold water, the issue is likely in your water supply. Whatever the source of the problem, plumbing specialists can provide a solution!

2. Impaired Water Flow

Poor water flow is a common sign of a problem in your plumbing system. If you turn on your hot water and it’s slow to flow, you may have scales or sediment buildup in your pipes or water heater. Scale is often produced in hard water areas due to the excessive minerals in the water lining your pipes or the walls of your water heater. The longer you leave it, the worse this problem will grow.

Solving this issue may require a water heater flush or de-scaling. Fortunately, a trusted plumbing specialist can efficiently complete either of these water heater repairs to get your home’s plumbing back to peak performance!

3. Water Heater Leaks

Have you noticed a pool of water collecting beneath or beside your water heater? Or, maybe you’ve heard the irritating drip-drip-drip sound of a leak? If your water heater is leaking, this indicates serious issues with your plumbing system. Not only can this lead to bacteria growth and poor air quality, but it can also cause water damage to your home’s structure.

If leaks can’t be repaired, you’ll need to invest in a heater replacement to prevent further damage to your health and home. ProFlo has years of experience inspecting, repairing, and replacing water heaters for home and business owners.

4. Weird Noises

While homes are prone to strange sounds, certain noises indicate significant and potentially costly issues with the water heater. Bangs, gurgles, whining, and pops are common sounds that indicate issues such as scale build-up. If you hear sizzling, it may indicate problems with your water flow or a condensation problem if you have a gas heater. Fortunately, strange noises are hard to miss, so you can hire professional plumbing repair before too much damage is done!

5. Fluctuating Temperatures

There are few issues more frustrating than fluctuating temperatures. Whether you’re dealing with scalding showers or cold water for washing dishes, inconsistent temperatures are a common sign of water heater issues. A plumbing maintenance technician can inspect your pipes and water heater to detect mineral build-ups or faulty components.

Keep Your Plumbing at Peak Performance

At ProFlo, we bring years of experience and a commitment to customer service to every plumbing repair job. We’ve seen it all and can quickly restore your water heater! Our friendly technicians provide detailed estimates and expert recommendations, guaranteeing lasting satisfaction for every customer. If your showers have gone cold or you’re troubled by an unpleasant smell, ProFlo has the solution you need! Call us today at 951-694-1300 or contact us online for a free estimate on plumbing maintenance.