What to Know
- Slow heating in water heaters usually stems from sediment buildup, thermostat issues, or a faulty heating element.
- Common signs that you need water heater repair are discolored water, strange noises coming from the tank, and uneven water temperatures.
- The experts at Service Lion can determine if you need your water heater repaired or replaced.
- Tankless water heaters are gaining popularity due to their high efficiency and the ability to provide instant, unlimited hot water.
Why Your Hot Water Heater Isn’t Heating (Top Causes Explained)
A slow hot water heater is annoying, especially on a cold winter morning, and it’s also a sign that something in your system needs attention. Understanding the reasons why your water heater isn’t heating can help you decide when it’s time to contact a licensed plumber for repair.
When your water heater isn’t heating fast and struggling to keep up with your heating demand, several common culprits could be to blame:
- Sediment buildup: Minerals from your water supply settle at the bottom of the tank, creating a thick barrier between the heating element and the water. This puts a strain on your system and causes inefficiency.
- Faulty heating elements: Elements can wear down with age or fail due to electrical issues. When one heating element fails, your water heater’s heating capacity may drop significantly.
- Thermostat issues: A faulty thermostat can cause your system to think the water is hotter than it actually is. Sometimes, the thermostat just needs recalibrating.
- Tube deterioration: The tube brings cold water down to the bottom of the tank for heating. If it’s damaged, the cold water may mix with the hot water at the top.
- Undersized heating tank: An undersized unit will struggle during peak usage times. This could be due to increased water consumption throughout the household.
- How Do I Know If My Hot Water Heater Needs Repair?
If your hot water heater is slow to heat and needs water heater repairs, you may notice these signs:
- Inconsistent temperatures: Fluctuations in water temperature during your hot showers indicate a problem with the water heater.
- Strange sounds: A popcorn sound may mean your tank is full of sediment. A banging or grinding noise could point to a loose component.
- Discolored water: If your hot water appears rusty, it could indicate corrosion in your water heater tank.
- No hot water between uses: If you’re waiting around for hot water in between showers or washing dishes, your water heater is running inefficiently.
- Leaks around the tank: If you see water pooling by your water heater tank, it needs to be repaired or replaced.
- High energy bills: If you notice a spike in your heating bill without a change in usage, you likely have an inefficient water heater.
- When Slow Heating Means You Need Professional Water Heater Repair
Slow-heating hot water heaters require immediate attention from the trained plumbers at Service Lion if you notice the following issues:
- Complete loss of hot water: A water heater not producing hot water usually means a repair or replacement is needed.
- Gas smells: A rotten-egg smell may indicate a gas leak, which poses serious health risks. Contact a professional plumber right away.
- Electrical issues: Constant tripped breakers and burning smells or sparks need immediate attention from a trained professional.
- Multiple problems: If you notice multiple issues, such as a popcorn sound and discolored water, call Service Lion.
Repair or Replace? How To Decide When Your Water Heater Isn’t Heating
The two biggest factors in deciding to repair vs. replace are your system’s age and the 50% rule. A water heater usually lasts eight to 12 years with proper maintenance. If your unit is approaching that age, hot water takes too long to heat, and you’re dealing with frequent repairs, it makes more sense to replace it.
If you’re facing repairs that are 50% the cost of a new unit, it’s likely more cost-effective to replace it. A new unit can meet modern hot water demands and save you money on your energy bill, especially when you upgrade to a space-saving, energy-efficient tankless water heater.
Financing Options for Water Heater Repairs & Upgrades
New water heaters can be costly for Brea and Orange County residents. Service Lion has paired up with GoodLeap and Synchrony to offer flexible financing options for homeowners. Our financing may also help with the cost of water heater repairs. We work with you to find the best payment plan to suit your needs and budget.
Why Choose Service Lion for Water Heater Repair?
When dealing with water heater repairs, hands-on expertise is required. The experienced plumbers at Service Lion have been working on water heaters for over a decade. Brea area homeowners choose us because we offer:
- Highly trained and trusted local plumbers
- Special offers, such as a $49 water heater repair diagnostic
- Fast response times and quality results
- Same-day water heater repairs
- Excellent reviews from our customers
Hot Water Heater Not Heating? Schedule Professional Water Heater Repair Today
Don’t settle for lukewarm showers or a water heater that runs out of hot water too quickly. Whether your hot water system needs repairs, maintenance, or a full replacement, Service Lion in Santa Ana is the place to call for water heater repair near you. Contact us today to schedule a professional water heater service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is water heater recovery time, and why is it slow?
Water heater recovery time is the amount of hot water (in gallons) your tank can provide in an hour after being completely drained. If the recovery time is slow, it could be due to age, sediment buildup, or faulty heating components.
Should I switch to a tankless unit?
Tankless units are becoming more popular due to their high efficiency and the instant, unlimited hot water they provide. They require less space, but still need to be properly maintained, and they’re more costly upfront. Speak with Service Lion about whether you should make the switch.
How do I improve the efficiency of my water heater?
Ways to improve the efficiency of your water heater include installing low-flow showerheads and faucets, regularly scheduling a tank flush with Service Lion to remove sediment buildup, and insulating your electric water heater.
What size water heater do I need?
The best water heater size depends on your hot water usage and family size. Service Lion can calculate the appropriate system size for your needs, but generally, you need a 30-40 gallon tank for a household of three to four people and a 50-80 gallon tank for bigger households.
Is Service Lion a 24/7 service for water heater repairs?
Yes! Service Lion offers 24/7 live answering for your emergency plumbing needs in the Brea area. If you need emergency repairs, one of our licensed and insured plumbers can be at your home as soon as possible.
