Trouble with Hot Water Tanks

Here's some straight talk and practical advice on how you could repair water heater problems. No hot water coming from the faucet, puddles of discolored water close to the heater tank and banging, popping, gurgling, boiling or other strange sounds coming from the tank are all signs that problems with your system have crept up on you. Because there are many things that can cause problems with your water heating system, it is a good idea to call on a professional to diagnose and repair your tank.
Learning how to repair water heater problems yourself can help you to avoid costly mistakes. If you are on a shoestring budget, early diagnosis is key, but before we go any further, a word of caution: If you go near the unit and smell natural gas (a rotten egg type smell), immediately turn off the pilot light and close the gas shutoff valve. Contact a licensed, certified plumber right away for help with the problem.
Now, one of the most common issues with these systems is that it is not doing its primary job. It is important to remember that gas heaters work much differently than electric heaters and the types of solutions to problems will not then be the same. That said, if you water heater stops giving you enough hot water, the tank may need to be flushed to ensure that mineral deposits are not bringing down the efficiency.

If your hot water is too hot, a plumber can find out exactly what is causing the problem and take necessary steps to repair water heater problems such as replacing your tanks thermostat. By the same token, water heater leaks should be diagnosed by professional plumbers because there is no one cause. Usually the problem with noisy tank heaters is an accumulation of minerals due to hard water.

A plumber may be able to repair the problem by flushing the sediment from the tank. But often it is too late by this time and the heater must be replaced. Foul smelling water that smells like sulfur may mean that your anode rod has been damaged and needs to be replaced by a plumber.
If you find that the water is discolored, in most instances, it is often the result of iron, copper and other minerals being dispersed into the water in your hot water tank. Installing a whole house water filter and flushing the tank will help with this problem. It is also a good idea to have a water softener installed as well.

With all of this in mind, it may be that the most cost efficient way to repair water heater problems is to contact a plumber. Be sure to check the validity of the plumber's business license and that they are insured. With proper maintenance and care your water heater can provide you with at least 10 years of good service. However, when there is a problem, let an expert plumber be your first line of defense.