A functioning water heater is essential for every home, providing hot water for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and other daily tasks. When a water heater starts malfunctioning, it can disrupt an entire household. Many homeowners in Phoenix experience water heater issues, especially with the extreme temperatures and hard water that can lead to faster wear and tear.
At APES HVAC & Plumbing, we understand how frustrating it can be when your water heater fails. Whether you are dealing with inconsistent water temperatures, unusual noises, or a complete system failure, our team is ready to help. Here are some of the most common water heater problems and how our expert technicians can fix them.
No Hot Water
One of the most common complaints homeowners have is turning on the faucet and discovering there is no hot water. This issue can stem from a variety of causes, depending on whether you have a gas or electric water heater.
For gas water heaters, the problem may be due to:
- A pilot light that has gone out
- A faulty thermocouple
- A gas supply issue
For electric water heaters, potential causes include:
- A tripped circuit breaker
- A faulty heating element
- A broken thermostat
Our team at APES HVAC & Plumbing can quickly diagnose the issue and restore hot water to your home. If the problem is a simple fix like relighting a pilot light or resetting a breaker, we handle it on the spot. For more complex repairs, such as replacing a broken heating element, we provide efficient solutions to get your water heater back up and running.
Water is Too Hot or Not Hot Enough
If your water temperature is inconsistent, fluctuating between scalding hot and lukewarm, it could indicate a thermostat problem. A malfunctioning thermostat may not be regulating the temperature correctly, causing the water to overheat or stay too cool.
Other potential causes of temperature issues include:
- A failing heating element in an electric water heater
- A buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank
- A gas control valve that is not working properly
Our technicians inspect and adjust the thermostat, flush out sediment buildup, and replace damaged components when necessary. If the issue is related to an aging or inefficient water heater, we can also recommend upgrades to a more energy-efficient model.
Strange Noises Coming from the Water Heater
Water heaters are designed to operate quietly, so loud noises like popping, banging, or rumbling should not be ignored. These sounds are often caused by a buildup of sediment inside the tank. When minerals from Phoenix’s hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, they harden and create a layer of insulation between the burner and the water, leading to overheating and loud noises.
Ignoring this issue can result in:
- Reduced heating efficiency
- Increased energy bills
- Accelerated wear and tear on the system
Flushing the water heater tank is one of the best ways to resolve this problem. At APES HVAC & Plumbing, we offer professional water heater flushing services to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.
Leaking Water Heater
Water heater leaks can cause serious damage if not addressed quickly. A leak might come from the tank itself, which could mean the unit is failing and needs to be replaced. However, leaks can also come from loose connections, faulty temperature and pressure relief valves, or corroded pipes.
Common causes of water heater leaks include:
- A damaged or rusted tank
- A faulty pressure relief valve
- Loose fittings or connections
- Excessive pressure buildup inside the tank
Our plumbing experts assess the source of the leak and determine the best course of action. In some cases, a simple repair like tightening a connection or replacing a valve is all that is needed. If the tank itself is leaking due to corrosion, we provide recommendations for a new water heater installation.
Discolored or Rusty Water
If you notice rusty or discolored water coming from your hot water taps, it could indicate corrosion inside your water heater tank. Over time, sediment buildup and rust can affect the quality of your water.
Possible causes of discolored water include:
- A deteriorating anode rod inside the tank
- Corrosion inside an aging tank
- Sediment accumulation affecting water quality
Replacing the anode rod can often extend the lifespan of the water heater and prevent rust from further contaminating the water. If the tank itself is corroded, a replacement may be the best option.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure in the hot water supply can be frustrating, making it difficult to take showers or wash dishes efficiently. The most common cause of low water pressure in a water heater is sediment buildup in the pipes or tank. Other causes may include:
- A partially closed shut-off valve
- Corroded pipes restricting water flow
- A failing pressure regulator
Our team can inspect the system, clean out sediment buildup, and check the condition of the pipes and valves to restore proper water pressure.
Water Heater Takes Too Long to Heat Up
If your water heater is taking longer than usual to heat water, it may be a sign that the heating elements are wearing out or that there is excessive sediment buildup in the tank. This issue can also be caused by an undersized water heater struggling to meet the demands of a household.
We assess whether the current water heater is sufficient for your household’s needs and perform any necessary maintenance to improve heating efficiency. If an upgrade is needed, we help homeowners select a unit that provides reliable hot water without long wait times.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
Water heaters typically last between 8 to 12 years, depending on maintenance and usage. If your water heater is near the end of its lifespan and experiencing frequent issues, replacing it with a newer, more efficient model may be the best solution.
Signs that it may be time for a replacement include:
- Constant repairs that are becoming costly
- Water heater leaks from the tank
- Rising energy bills due to inefficiency
- Inconsistent or insufficient hot water supply
At APES HVAC & Plumbing, we provide expert recommendations on energy-efficient water heater models that fit your home’s needs and budget. Whether you are interested in a traditional tank water heater or a tankless system, our technicians handle the installation process with precision.
Call APES HVAC And Plumbing for Water Heater Repairs in Phoenix
A reliable water heater is essential for your home, and when problems arise, quick and professional repairs make all the difference. APES HVAC & Plumbing provides expert water heater repair, maintenance, and installation services to homeowners in Phoenix and surrounding areas.
Call APES HVAC & Plumbing at (623) 521-1172 to schedule your water heater service today.
Visit our website at www.go4apes.com to learn more about our HVAC and plumbing services.
Located at 2222 W Parkside Ln STE 105, Phoenix, AZ 85027, we proudly serve Phoenix Valley and surrounding communities.
Schedule your water heater service now and enjoy reliable hot water in your home.