How to Troubleshoot Your Water Heater

Lacking hot water is no fun. And discolored, smelly water is just as bad. What to do?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Chlorine
• Garden Hoses And Attachments
• Thermometers
• Flashlights
• Flashlights
• Thermometers

1. Make sure the breaker hasn't tripped, if you have an electric unit and are not getting any hot water. Press the reset button on the thermostat inside the access panel if a tripped breaker isn't the problem.

2. Suspect a buildup of sediments in the water-heater tank if the hot water is discolored or is taking a long time to replenish. If this is the case, you'll need to drain the tank completely and flush it with clean water.

3. Check the water heater's temperature settings if you have noisy plumbing. It might be too hot, and the noise may be the result of steam building up in the pipes.

4. Make sure you aren't running multiple appliances that use hot water - running the dishwasher and the washing machine will make your shower short and not so sweet.

5. Notice whether the water smells like sulfur. Sometimes bacteria that live in the water get out of control. A good dose of chlorine will usually take care of the problem. (Consult your owner's manual for the recommended dosage.)

6. Check the water temperature when the tank is full. Run hot water from the tap over a thermometer. It should be within 5 degrees of the thermostat setting. Replace the thermostat if there is a larger discrepancy.

[luv2blog]

on 9/15/2008 This article saved me several dollars today. You rock, EHOW!

[mtodd]

on 8/20/2008 why did my water all the soden get so hot you cant stand it.? ive checked the settings thier both at 120 DEGs.

[cowkiller]

on 11/26/2007 a broken dip tube will cause no hot water or you will run out in seconds. Dip tube is located under the cold water inlet nipple

[koldkanuck]

on 9/20/2007 why would my cold water tap in bathroom sink have hot water come out when tiolet is flushed never heard of that before.Please help.

on 1/18/2007 There are two important tools to have if you plan on working on your own. It's very simple to do. I am a woman, and I always fix my own. You can buy a hot water heater checker at Home Depot. They are less than $10. It will tell you if the blame for your trouble is the element, thermostat, or something else. A lot of hot water heaters take a special "socket" that you use to take out the old element.

Also, make sure you check to see if there is any calcium buildup where the element goes in at. You can use an old spoon with a stick taped to it (stick is used for the handle) to reach in and scoop out the old calcium. I hope this helps.