How To Tell If Your Hot Water Heater Is Going to Fail Soon

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping your hot water tank healthy is one way to avoid water damage in your home or business.

With an average tank size between fifty and one hundred gallons, leaking hot water tanks can be a major source of water damage problems and can flood an entire home and cause significant damage if not detected quickly.  But how do you know if your hot water heater is about to fail?

A lack of hot water is the most common sign of a failing hot water heater.  Rumbling, creaking or popping noises are another common indicator of an unhealthy water heater.  This can mean that sediment is forming on the surface of the water heater or that the unit is on the verge of a crack or leak.  Murky or foul-smelling water are also signs of a failing water heater.  Additionally, the pressure relief valve opens to release pressure buildup in the water heater and can sometimes fail to function properly.  This can have dangerous results and should be inspected by a plumber if you suspect a problem.  And finally, pooling water beneath the unit can be a sign of a leaking water tank.  

Pooling water beneath a hot water tank can lead to other, more dangerous problems.  If your tank sits on a wood surface, the wood can become spongy and rot through if left wet for a long period of time.  Be sure to act quickly if you know your hot water tank is leaking to avoid this problem.

If you see any of these common indicators, contact a plumber immediately to help determine the source of the problem.  And if you do experience a water leak or damage of any kind, call the experts at SERVPRO of Vacaville/Dixon/ Fairfield/Davis to help you remediate all of your water problems.  

At SERVPRO of Vacaville/Dixon/Fairfield/Davis, we are experts at assessing water damage in your home or business, as well as removing standing water and drying out damaged materials. We are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to answer your calls and respond to any and all water emergencies you may experience.  Call us today at (707) 724-8977.  We live and work in your community and we are here for you.