Water repair near me Atlanta is what you need when your water heater suddenly stops working. Having no hot water is not just an inconvenience; it’s an urgent problem that needs immediate service. This can be overwhelming as a homeowner, especially if you’re not a home emergency expert. This guide will help you understand why home water heaters stop working and how Morningside Plumbing can quickly and effectively resolve plumbing water heater repair issues.
Understanding 6 Common Reasons Water Heaters Stop Working
1. Age of the Unit
Most water heaters last about ten years. If your heater is approaching this age, it may be at the end of its lifecycle. Old heating system units are prone to problems like rust, leaks, and inefficiency.
What to Look For:
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- Rusty water from your taps.
- Leaks around the base of the water heater.
- Reduced efficiency in heating water.
What to Do:
If your water heater is nearing its lifespan, it may be time for a heater replacement service. You can call local plumbing company, Morningside Plumbing, to request an appointment. We would love to discuss our energy-efficient systems tailored to your needs.
2. Sediment Buildup in the Tank
Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium settle at the tank’s bottom, reducing efficiency and causing strange noises or inconsistent heating.
What to Look For:
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- Rumbling or popping noises from the tank.
- Lukewarm water despite a high thermostat setting.
- Not enough hot water.
What to Do:
Managing sediment buildup and mineral scale is a critical part of unit maintenance. Periodic flushing of the tank helps remove sediment. Removing it will add years of life to your electric water heater or gas unit. If you’re unsure how to do this, our team can handle it during routine maintenance.
3. Thermostat Malfunction
A faulty thermostat may prevent the heater from reaching or maintaining the desired temperature.
What to Look For:
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- Water that’s too hot or not hot enough.
- Inconsistencies in water temperatures.
- A thermostat that doesn’t respond to adjustments.
What to Do:
Check the settings to ensure they haven’t been accidentally changed. The part may need a repair or replacement if it is still unresponsive. Our commercial plumbing and home plumbing experts can diagnose thermostat problems and provide installation service for a replacement part when necessary.
4. Power Supply Issues (Electric Water Heaters)
If the power to your water heater is interrupted, it won’t work. A power outage, circuit breaker tripping, or a loose electrical connection can cause this.
What to Look For:
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- No hot water at all.
- No power to your home or just to the unit.
- A tripped circuit breaker
What to Do:
Go to your home breaker box and reset any tripped circuit breakers. If the issue persists, call us to inspect the electrical heating system.
5. Gas Issues (Gas Water Heaters)
Gas water heaters need a steady gas supply and a functional pilot light for heating. Problems in these areas can cause the heater to stop working.
What to Look For:
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- A pilot light that is out.
- A flickering pilot light that will not stay lit or light at all.
- Unusual smells near the heater (indicating a gas leak).
What to Do:
Gas water heaters need a steady gas supply and a functional pilot light. Problems in these areas can cause the heater to stop working. If you suspect a gas issue, such as an out or flickering pilot light or unusual smells near the heater, you must contact a professional for water heater repair near me in Atlanta immediately for safety reasons.
6. Leaks
Leaks can signal serious problems, such as a damaged pressure relief valve, corrosion in the tank, or a damaged supply line.
What to Look For:
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- Water pooling around the heater.
- Hot water flooding in your home.
- Drips from the pressure relief valve.
What to Do:
Leaks in heating systems require professional service and intervention. Call Morningside Plumbing to diagnose and service the problem before it worsens. Remember, some issues are best left to the experts.
Steps You Can Do to Troubleshoot Your Heater in Atlanta
If your water heater stops working, here are some basic checks to perform before calling a plumber:
- Verify Power or Gas Supply is On
- Ensure the heater is plugged in (for electric models).
- For gas models, check the gas supply valve.
- Check the Thermostat
- Make sure it’s set to your desired temperature (typically 120°F).
- Inspect for Leaks
- Look around the tank for water pooling or dripping.
- Reset the Circuit Breaker (Electric Models)
- If the breaker has tripped, reset it and test the heater again.
- Relight the Pilot Light (Gas Models)
- Follow the instructions from the manufacturer that are printed on the unit.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, calling in the experts is crucial. Remember, your safety is our priority, and we’re here to help you with any water heater issues that may arise. Don’t hesitate to contact us for professional assistance.
When to Call an Atlanta Plumber for Water Heater Repair or Heater Replacement Service
Some problems require professional expertise. Call Morningside Plumbing to repair water heaters if you notice any of the following:
- Major Leaks: Significant water pooling around the unit.
- Strange Noises: Rumbling, banging, pinging, or popping sounds from the tank.
- Consistent Cold Water: No hot water despite troubleshooting.
- Water Pressure Issues: Sudden drops in pressure or inconsistent flow.
Our skilled Atlanta plumbers, with their extensive knowledge and experience, are here to diagnose your water heater problem and provide a solution that works for you. You can trust that your water heater issues are in good hands with Morningside Plumbing. But before repair, maintenance is a way to prevent the need for our service.
Maintenance You Can Do to Avoid Needing Repair Service
Maintaining a tank water heater is essential for ensuring efficiency, extending lifespan, and preventing unexpected breakdowns. Regular upkeep can save you money on energy bills and heater repair services. Here are some key tips for maintaining a tank water heater:
1. Adjust the Thermostat
- Why It Matters: Setting the thermostat to 120°F strikes a balance between efficiency and safety. Higher temperatures can waste energy and increase the risk of scalding, while lower temperatures might not sufficiently heat the water.
- What to Do: Check and adjust the thermostat on your water heater periodically, especially if you notice changes in water temperature.
2. Perform an Annual Tank Flush
- Why It Matters: Over time, minerals and sediment from your water supply can accumulate at the bottom of the tank. This buildup reduces heating efficiency, increases energy consumption, and can lead to tank corrosion.
- What to Do:
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- Turn off the water heater (electric: power off; gas: set to pilot mode).
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
- Place the other end of the hose in a safe drainage area.
- Open the valve and drain the tank partially or fully to remove sediment.
- Refill the tank, close the valve, and turn the heater back on.
3. Check the Anode Rod
- Why It Matters: The anode rod prevents tank corrosion by attracting corrosive elements in the water. A degraded anode rod can lead to tank damage.
- What to Do:
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- Locate the anode rod on top of the tank.
- Use a wrench to remove it and inspect for heavy corrosion.
- Replace it if more than 6 inches of the core wire is exposed or it’s heavily eroded (usually every 3–5 years).
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4. Test the Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief Valve
- Why It Matters: This valve prevents dangerous pressure buildup in the tank. A malfunctioning valve can lead to safety hazards.
- What to Do:
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- Place a bucket under the discharge pipe.
- Lift the valve lever to release water momentarily.
- If water flows and stops when you release the lever, it’s working correctly. If not, you need to have a professional plumber replace the valve.
5. Insulate the Tank and Pipes
- Why It Matters: Insulation reduces heat loss, saving energy and keeping water hotter for longer.
- What to Do: You can use a water heater insulation blanket to wrap the tank (avoid covering the thermostat or burner access). Insulate the hot and cold water pipes, especially in unheated spaces like garages.
6. Monitor for Leaks
- Why It Matters: Leaks can indicate serious issues like tank corrosion or loose connections, which worsen over time. And when these leaks get worse your home suffers serious water damage.
- What to Do: Regularly inspect around the tank and pipes for signs of moisture or pooling water. Address small leaks immediately to prevent bigger problems.
7. Schedule Professional Maintenance
- Why It Matters: Some maintenance tasks require expertise, such as checking for gas leaks (for gas heaters), inspecting electrical components (for electric heaters), or ensuring proper venting.
- What to Do: Schedule annual inspections with a professional plumber to ensure your water heater is in optimal condition.
8. Use Soft Water if Possible
- Why It Matters: Hard water accelerates mineral buildup in the tank and can damage components over time.
- What to Do: If you live in an area with hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral content.
9. Keep the Area Around the Water Heater Clear
- Why It Matters: Ensuring proper airflow (for gas heaters) and keeping the area clear of flammable materials reduces fire risks and helps the unit operate efficiently.
- What to Do: Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the tank.
10. Replace Your Water Heater When Necessary
- Why It Matters: Even with excellent maintenance, water heaters have a limited lifespan (usually 10–12 years). Aging units become less efficient and more prone to leaks or failures.
- What to Do: If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan and requires frequent repairs, consult a professional about a replacement.
FAQs
Why would a hot water heater just stop working?
Common causes include thermostat malfunctions, sediment buildup, or power or gas supply issues.
Why did my hot water stop working out of nowhere?
To start, see if you have tripped a circuit breaker, blown a fuse, or a pilot light that’s gone out.
What can you check if a water heater is not working?
Verify the power or gas supply, inspect the thermostat, and look for leaks.
How do I reset my water heater?
For electric models, locate the reset button near the thermostat. For gas models, follow the pilot light instructions on the tank.
Who to Call for Atlanta Water Heater Repair Near Me
If your water heater isn’t working, don’t wait—call 404-873-1881 to schedule a visit from Morningside Plumbing. Our team of experts will restore your hot water in no time. Morningside Plumbing is your trusted water heater repair and replacement partner in Atlanta. Let us take the stress out of plumbing problems!