Water Heater Repair – 4 Important Things To Know
The biggest factor in determining how costly water heater repair will be is the problem at hand. Some water heaters have more complex issues than others, which can add up to a large expenditure. Here are some common problems most homeowners run into with their heating systems:
- Dip Tube – This is when the water flowing through the heater is not balanced with the heat exchanger. If this happens, it can cause damage to the heater and can lead to a fire. Usually, a dip tube can be fixed on its own. However, if it is a complex or dangerous problem, it may require the services of a professional.
- Leaking Water Heater – A lot of people may think they can fix a leaking heater by simply unplugging and plugging in again. While this may work in the case of one heater, it is not the best idea when trying to troubleshoot a leaking system on a more complicated system. A professional can use a specialized device to help determine what is causing the leak and then fix it.
- Heater is Dead – Most water heaters come with a warning that states the heater is dead. If the alarm goes off, it is time for immediate action to be taken to avoid further damage. Many times the problem can be found through testing the system by replacing a fuse. When it is determined that the problem is not serious, the homeowner may need to call in a specialist to do a more thorough inspection and determine whether the system needs to be repaired or not.
- Heater is Under Voltage – When a water heater has a problem with the thermostat, it can cause a huge amount of damage. If the system is not operating properly, a professional can find out why it is working at all and then repair it so it works at its optimal level.
- Heaters are Too Hot – One of the biggest mistakes made by homeowners when it comes to their heating systems is not checking to make sure that the water that is flowing through the system is balanced and that no overflow or backflow is coming out of the heater.
When the water in the heater is not at a proper temperature, it can turn the heating on and off excessively. This can cause more damage, which can only be fixed by a professional. When the heater is not functioning properly, it will cause the heater to take longer to heat the water, which will put extra wear and tear on the heater and eventually it will break down.
When considering your water heater repair cost, it is important to check out the issues listed above. By knowing the issues at hand, you will be better prepared for the cost of water heater repair and ensure the best value for your dollar.
It is always a good idea to know the average life expectancy for your water heater. The longer your heater operates the better because they typically last longer than your typical light bulb. You should also figure into your plan, how often you will need to replace your thermostat, and if you will be doing your maintenance on the heater.
Repair Options
It is also important to ask about the different types of methods that you can use for water heater repair. One option is to purchase a new unit that includes a new thermostat and new heater tank, but this is going to cost a little more, as well as some of the newer models cost more.
Some of the newer units offer an automatic shut off feature to allow you to automatically turn the heater on or off if you are away for some time. Others use a one-way valve, meaning you must shut it off to shut it off. Some models have a timer that will turn the heater off at specific intervals to prevent overheating.
No matter what type of unit you are using for your heater, make sure that the one-way valve is the correct one for your situation. Some types of units are one way, others use a two-way valve, and some use both valves. Make sure you know the correct way to operate it so that you don’t cause any unnecessary damage to your heater.
