Water heater repair is a type of project that typically requires professional handling. Issues like a leaking dip tube, mineral buildup affecting the tank, sediment accumulation, gas repair work, and anode rod corrosion will require professional attention.

However, there are a few things you can do to keep your home comfortable until the plumber arrives. Start by checking for a tripped breaker or blown fuse in the circuit breaker box. Visit https://tidalplumbingnyc.com/ to learn more.
If you have a faulty thermostat, the water heater won’t be able to regulate the water temperature. This can be a major problem for your home. It might also be a sign that your heater is leaking from somewhere other than the tank. Even if the leak is minor, it shouldn’t be ignored. You need to turn off the water supply and the power source to your water heater and have a professional inspect it.
This will include a few mini-steps, so follow the steps closely. The first step is to open the access panels on the top and bottom of the water heater. You will need to use a flat-head screwdriver to loosen and remove the panels. The thermostats are located inside each panel. There is usually a plastic insulating cover with a cutout flap on each one. Remove these and keep them somewhere safe.
Once the covers are off, disconnect the wires from each thermostat. You should now be able to see the lower thermostat and heating element. There should be a red reset button on the upper thermostat; if it has tripped, push it back up. Make sure the reset button is fully deactivated before continuing.
Position the first lead on your multimeter on the left common terminal. This is the terminal that doesn’t have a power line connected to it. If it reads 1, the higher thermostat is broken and will need to be replaced.
Move the second lead to the lower heating element terminal. The reading should be 0 ohms (or close to it). If it reads 1, the lower thermostat is also broken and will need to be replaced.
You can now check continuity through the whole lower heating system by touching the meter probe to the thermostat terminal 4 and then the high-temperature limit switch terminal 4. You should now be able to measure about 13 ohms of resistance. If the value is the same, you know all of the lower heating system components are working. If not, you will need to replace both the lower and upper thermostats.
Check the drain valve.
Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home. It provides you with hot water for everything from cooking and cleaning to bathing and laundry. You rely on it every day. So, when it starts to act up, it can bring your daily routine to a screeching halt. If you are having problems with your water heater, it’s a good idea to contact an experienced professional for a repair or replacement.
Unusual noises from your water heater should never be ignored. If you hear loud cracks, whining tones, or deep gurgles, these are all signs that something is wrong. These unusual sounds are usually caused by excess mineral deposits inside your tank or on the heating elements. Taking a little time to check these items can prevent these noises from worsening or becoming more severe over time.
Low water pressure is another sign that your water heater needs to be repaired or replaced. If you are experiencing weak dribbles instead of powerful jets, it’s important to get this issue resolved right away. Low water pressure can make it difficult to take a shower, wash dishes, or even do laundry.
Leaking from your water heater is a serious problem that should not be ignored. Leaks from your water heater can cause major damage to your property and are often caused by rust and corrosion in the tank or loose connections. If you notice any water leaks from your tank or surrounding area, shut off the power and water supply to your water heater and call a professional for a repair.
A clogged drain valve can also be a serious problem for your water heater. Over time, sediment can build up in your water heater’s drain valve and cause it to become clogged. Luckily, these valves are easy to replace and are often sold at local hardware stores or home centers.
While some issues with your water heater can be fixed by a professional, other problems cannot be solved and may indicate that it is time to replace the unit. If you are making frequent repairs to your water heater, it’s probably time to consider replacing it, as newer models are more efficient and can save you money on energy costs.
Check the pressure release valve.
Like other appliances, your water heater can become a bomb in your home if something goes wrong. That’s why it is important to regularly check your temperature and pressure relief valve. The TPR valve is designed to open when the temperature of the water inside the tank reaches unsafe levels, and as a safety measure, it can prevent your hot water system from exploding.
To test your TPR valve, first make sure the power or gas to your water heater is turned off. Then position a bucket underneath the discharge pipe. Carefully lift the lever on the valve and watch for water to flow into the bucket. If it does, your valve is working as it should.
Over time, mineral deposits can build up on the valve seat and prevent it from closing properly. The best way to prevent this is to keep your valve clean. Fortunately, there is an easy way to do this.
The TPR valve is located on the top or side of the water heater and has a drain line that connects to it. It is a good idea to install the drain line so it slopes downward and terminates at least 6 inches from the top of the water heater. The drain line should also be made of a heat-resistant material, such as copper. It is also a good idea to insulate the drain line to protect it from freezing in cold weather.
TPR valves should be tested annually by lifting the lever handle and observing whether or not water flows out of the discharge pipe. This will help you spot problems before they turn into an explosion or a costly repair bill.
The only downside to this is that you need to be careful, as the water that discharges will be very hot. However, it is a far better alternative to a faulty water heater that could explode if it becomes overheated. If your TPR valve doesn’t release any water or is dripping, you will need to replace it. Contact Hackler Plumbing today for an estimate on the cost of a new valve.
Check the anode rod.
Located at the top of your water heater is a long metal rod that is called the sacrificial anode. This rod attracts corrosive minerals in your water, thereby allowing the electrochemical process to corrode it instead of your tank. When the anode rod becomes so corroded that only a thin piece of metal remains, it must be replaced. This is done to extend the life of your water heater by saving it from having to endure the damage of sacrificial anode-eating minerals.
The anode rod is usually made of aluminum, zinc, or a combination of both. You can purchase an anode rod at a local hardware store, and it should come with the instructions for your model. You can also find instructions in the owner’s manual for your water heater. Typically, the anode rod is labeled on the water heater and locked in place with a hex head. The hex head can be loosened with a crescent wrench or channel lock to get it out for inspection and replacement.
If you notice rust-colored or foul-smelling hot water, it could indicate that the anode rod is worn out and soaking into your water. The foul odor is usually that of rotten eggs and is due to the anode rod attracting the corrosive minerals in your home’s water. The smell will dissipate after the sacrificial anode is replaced.
While you’re at it, consider upgrading to an aluminum anode rod to increase your water heater’s life. It corrodes more slowly than magnesium, and you can find one at your local hardware store.
When you are ready to install the new anode rod, make sure the tank is empty and that there is a good amount of clearance for accessing the hex head. If you don’t have a lot of clearance, invest in a flexible anode rod. When you insert the rod and tighten it, smear Teflon pipe thread sealant on the threads to prevent corrosion. Turn the water and power back on, but be sure to drain another gallon of water from your tank before turning on the electricity or gas.