The winter months can be brutal in the Winnetka area, with below-freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and lots of ice. As outdoor temperatures begin to drop, it is crucial for homeowners to be aware of some common water heater issues that can occur this time of year. You can take steps to avoid these problems and keep your water heater functioning properly so that you can stay warm and comfortable during the cold weather months.
Below, this water heater repair company in Winnetka, Illinois is going to discuss some of the most common water heater issues to be mindful of.
No Hot Water
This is a very common problem during the winter months. If your water heater is not working properly, you will have no hot water for showering, washing dishes, or laundry. There are many possible reasons for this, so knowing where to start when diagnosing the problem can be tricky.
The first thing you should do is check the pilot light in the base of the water heater. If there is no pilot light or it is not lit, you should contact a qualified water heater repair company in Winnetka, Illinois to come out and fix it immediately because this may indicate a gas leak.
Next, make sure that your thermostat setting is set correctly. If both the pilot light and thermostat settings seem correct, turn off all water sources from inside and outside the home (this includes shutting off water faucets and toilets), wait ten minutes for everything to cool down, then turn them back on one by one. Make sure to also check with other household members, as they may be using too much hot water without realizing it.
Rusty Water
Rusting is a major issue that can cause your water heater to leak or even break. Rusting happens when the water inside the tank becomes contaminated with iron and oxygen, which react to form rust. The rust will accumulate at the bottom of the tank and can clog up your pipes if it reaches them. If you see orange or brown spots on your toilet or sink, this is a sign of rust issues with your water heater.
The best way to prevent rust is to clean your tank and install a sacrificial anode, which will absorb most of the oxidation. Sacrificial anodes are usually included with new water heaters, so you will need to replace your original one if it has corroded away. Your water heater repair company in Winnetka, Illinois will recommend choosing an anode made from magnesium or aluminum, so it is safe for your plumbing system.
Water Takes Too Long to Heat
If you notice that your water takes too long to get hot, there could be a few reasons why. It might be because the heater is going out or it is taking longer for the water to travel through your pipes. If you notice this, it is best to contact a water heater repair company in Winnetka, Illinois to ensure there are no other issues. You can also try draining some of the water out of your system or turning up the temperature on your thermostat.
Leaks
If you’re noticing water leaking from the top of your water heater, you might be experiencing a frozen cold-water pipe. A frozen cold pipe can cause the pipe to burst, which often costs a lot of money to fix, so it’s important to keep an eye on your pipes and ensure they stay unfrozen. If you notice that your pipes are freezing up during the winter months, take measures to insulate them.
Weird Noises
Some of the most common water heater issues in the winter happen when there is a buildup of sediment, rust, and mineral deposits. If you hear any strange noises coming from your water heater, it could be an indication that these materials are building up and causing clogs.
Looking for the Best Water Heater Repair Company in Winnetka, Illinois?
Are you worried that something might be wrong with your water heater? Looking to have it inspected by the best water heater repair company in Winnetka, Illinois? If so, look no further than the team at R Carrozza Plumbing Co. Contact us today at (847) 451-7040 to schedule an inspection.