Water heaters are common in Las Vegas and most parts of the country. It’s considered a standard appliance in many homes and businesses. The market is booming, and so are the choices. There are tank and tankless units powered by either gas or electricity, as well as hybrid water heaters. Each has its pros and cons, but many choose tankless water heaters for their energy efficiency.
Most systems last up to 15 years. With daily use, however, most plumbing devices break down before that. Here are some signs that your unit needs attention.
Sign #1: No Hot Water At All
This is the most obvious sign. If you turn on the tap and nothing but cold water comes out, your hot water heater is likely the culprit. Many issues lead to this problem, for instance, a tripped circuit breaker or a gas supply problem.
Electric tank systems rely on a heating element, a metal rod or coil that heats the water as it flows through the heat exchanger. It could cause the circuit to trip when it overheats or gets damaged, resulting in inconsistent or no supply at all. At the same time, you may have gas valve blockages or the system could be experiencing insufficient gas pressure or a clogged gas line.
Regardless, don’t ignore this. It’s a clear indication that something is wrong with your system. For your peace of mind, make that service call for a water heater repair Las Vegas residents have come to trust.
Sign #2: Inconsistent Water Temperatures
A tankless water heater is supposed to give you a continuous supply of hot water on demand. But if you’re experiencing sudden temperature drops while showering or washing the dishes, your unit isn’t working well.
Inadequate flow rate and faulty sensors are two of the most likely causes of the problem. A malfunctioning recirculating pump, which distributes hot water throughout the system, could also be to blame.
If you have a gas tankless water heater, check your venting system. Unlike electric water heaters, gas tank water heaters burn fuel and need proper ventilation to remove combustion byproducts. Lack of fresh air for the ignition and burning processes may cause the unit to produce less hot water.
Sign #3: Reduced Water Flow or Pressure
If the flow of hot water from your taps is noticeably weaker than the cold-water flow, it’s another sign that there’s an issue with your heater. It’s a symptom associated with a buildup of mineral deposits (scale) in the system.
Las Vegas, NV and much of Nevada’s water supply have high mineral content. Upscale communities like The Lakes and Seven Hills, or the outskirts of Las Vegas, including Green Valley, aren’t spared. This ‘hard’ water can scale and build up inside and cause plumbing issues. Many homeowners use a water softener, but it’s not fully effective in removing existing mineral buildup.
When the scale accumulates, it narrows the pipes and restricts the flow of water and reduces pressure. Professionals use descaling solutions alongside other methods, like mechanical scraping, using specialized tools.
Sign #4: Strange Noises Coming From the Unit
If you start hearing unusual noises like gurgling or rumbling, it’s definitely a red flag. These sounds are often caused by sediment buildup inside the heat exchanger. It can restrict water flow and cause a host of other problems. Ignoring these noises will lead to a less efficient system and potentially a complete breakdown of your tankless water heater system.
Sign #5: The System Keeps Shutting Off
Does your unit turn on and off on its own? This is one of the most common signs of water heater failure and can be caused by many things. A clogged air intake or exhaust vent can cause the system to overheat and shut down as a safety measure. It might also be a sign of a malfunctioning flame sensor.
A licensed plumber can diagnose the problem and prevent more significant damage. It’s one of the many reasons to include regular plumbing system checks in your essential home maintenance tasks.
Sign #6: Error Codes on the Display
Modern tankless water heaters have a digital display that shows error codes. They’re designed to help you or your plumbing expert troubleshoot problems. If you see a code flashing on the screen, don’t just clear it and hope for the best. Look up the code in your owner’s manual or online. It will tell you what the problem is.
If it’s a minor issue, you can fix it yourself or describe the problem to a professional, for major problems. A damaged circuit board, clogged water and gas lines, and system upgrades, for example, require part replacements and professional intervention.
Sign #7: Visible Leaks or Corrosion
A professional installation guarantees your unit’s proper functioning. Even so, a tankless system has many parts that are prone to damage and rusting. A damaged pressure relief valve, for example, can cause leaking and deteriorate due to corrosion. Pipes can leak at the connection points. Plumbers are trained to perform leak repairs and rework the plumbing system, if necessary.
Water discoloration is the most common sign of internal corrosion or rusting and sediment buildup. Flushing the tank or an anode rod replacement can sometimes do the trick, although severe issues might require you to buy a new one. Don’t worry, some companies offer free estimates and financing options to help you tide through costly water heater issues.
The Best Thing To Do
Don’t wait until your tankless water heater completely fails. Being proactive and addressing these issues can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. It can sometimes be tempting to do it yourself, but it’s best to leave the maintenance and repairs to professionals. Seek experts who can diagnose the problem accurately and perform the necessary fixes, whether you’re in the city, within the greater Las Vegas area, or even outside. After all, there’s no geographical limit to having smooth-flowing, on-demand hot water systems.