What is Wrong With My Water Heater?
There are two things that can cause your water heater to malfunction.
- The first is that your water heater is leaking. If this is the case, you will need to call a plumber. To stop water from continuing to fill the tank, shut off the cold-water inlet on the pipe at the top of the heater. The tank will leak until it is empty, but it will not continue to fill. This water heater will need to be replaced.
- The second is that it is not providing hot water to your faucets.
If you have a broken gas water heater…
Check to see if it has a standing pilot light and if the pilot is lit. There are generally two small doors near the bottom of the water heater, the outer door that you can open, and using a flashlight, check through the small window on the inner door to see if there is a sustaining pilot light or not. If it is lit, check to see if all the other controls are doing their job telling it to turn on and heat up. If it is not lit, you can turn the gas valve to the pilot setting.
Push the button in and hold. While pushing the button in, use the manual spark ignitor until you see a flame. After you see a flame, hold the pilot light button for 60 seconds to engage the gas valve, then release and turn the switch to the “ON” position. Make sure that when you have released the button the pilot has remained lit.
If you have an electric water heater…
The only thing that you can do is check your circuit breaker box to ensure that the breaker has not been tripped to the “OFF” position. If that is not the problem, you will most likely need to call a plumber.
If you are having a problem with a broken water heater or are just looking for a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today.
Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager
FAQs
Q: What are the common issues causing water heater malfunction?
A: There are primarily two common issues that can cause a water heater to malfunction. The first is a leak within the tank, indicating the need for immediate attention and likely replacement. The second issue could be the heater failing to provide hot water to your faucets.
Q: How can I address a leaking water heater?
A: If you notice a leak, it’s crucial to act swiftly. Shut off the cold-water inlet on the pipe atop the heater to stop further filling of the tank. The tank may continue to leak until it’s empty, but it won’t refill. In such cases, it’s advisable to call a plumber for further assessment and likely replacement.
Q: What should I do if my gas water heater isn’t functioning properly?
A: For a gas water heater, first, check if it has a standing pilot light and if it’s lit. Locate the doors near the bottom, open the outer door, and inspect through the inner door’s small window using a flashlight. If the pilot isn’t lit, turn the gas valve to the pilot setting. Press and hold the button, using the manual spark ignitor until a flame appears. Hold the pilot light button for 60 seconds to engage the gas valve, then release and switch it to the “ON” position. Ensure the pilot remains lit.
Q: What steps can I take for an electric water heater that’s not working?
A: In the case of an electric water heater, check your circuit breaker box to ensure the breaker hasn’t tripped to the “OFF” position. If the breaker is not the issue, it’s recommended to contact a plumber for further inspection and resolution.
Q: How can I address water heater problems or find a reliable plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area?
A: If you’re facing issues with your water heater or seeking a reputable plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, reach out to St Paul Pipeworks for professional assistance and quality service.
