Water heaters are durable appliances, and a good unit should last 15 years, sometimes more, if it receives proper care and maintenance. Part of caring for a hot water heater is making sure that it gets repairs as soon as a problem appears. If you notice that you aren’t receiving the same volume of hot water that you once did, or if the hot water vanishes entirely, you need to call for professional repairs. Also watch for discolored water or fluctuations in water temperature: these often indicate immediate repair needs.
At Mediterranean Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., we specialize in water heater repairs throughout Woodland Hills, CA, as well as installation, replacement, and maintenance. You can reach us 24/7 for your emergency repairs.
3 common sources of trouble in water heaters
- Hard water: Hard water is water with a high mineral content, usually calcites and magnesium. Hard water is a common problem from municipal water supplies. Hard water rarely presents a health hazard, but it can inflict damage throughout your plumbing. The tanks of water heaters are especially susceptible to hard water problems, since the high temperature in the tank boils minerals out of the water supply and leads to limescale developing inside the tank. Limescale acts as an insulator, which will create a temperature imbalance in the tank and cause overheating. Repairs involve draining the tank and de-scaling the inside. Technicians may advise that you install a water softener on your home’s plumbing.
- Corrosion: Whenever metal and water meet, corrosion is a destructive possibility. However, water heaters have an anode rod that attracts corrosion to it and away from the tank, preventing corrosion from taking hold. However, if the rod doesn’t receive occasional replacement, it will rust all the way through and allow corrosion to get a foothold in the tank. Without swift repairs, the entire water heater will need replacement.
- Sediment build-up: Particles in water that don’t dissolve (this includes hard water) will drift to the bottom of the water heater tank and start to build-up. An accumulation of sand and dirt in a tank can block the drain valve. If the build-up increases, it can cause the tank to overheat, which will trigger extensive leaking.
Maintenance is your best defense
Annual maintenance on a water heater includes flushing the tank, which eliminates sediment build-up. A maintenance technician will also catch signs of rust and know when the anode rod needs replacement. If there are any other repairs that the system needs, your technician will let you know and help you schedule them.
When you do need water heater repair services in Woodland Hills, CA, call Mediterranean Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. Ask about our maintenance program as well.