While there are some water heater repairs homeowners can attempt themselves, doing significant or unauthorized modifications on a gas water heater is dangerous. It’s always a good idea to consult a plumber like Water Heater Repair Tampa for these tasks.
Discolored or smelly water may indicate hydrogen sulfide gas leaking from the unit. A plumber can drain and flush the tank to prevent this.
The Thermocouple is a device that sits close to the pilot light and generates a voltage which keeps the gas valve open. The device also shuts off the gas flow if the pilot light goes out. It’s one of the safety features in your water heater that ensures there is a flame to light your gas furnace and hot water. The thermocouple can get dirty over time which causes it to stop working correctly. In some cases a simple cleaning is all that is needed to restore it to proper working condition.
The first sign that your Thermocouple may need repair is a pilot light that frequently goes out or won’t stay lit. This is because the thermocouple is responsible for detecting the pilot light’s presence and transmitting that signal to the gas valve. When it can’t detect the flame it shuts off the gas flow to your gas furnace and prevents hot water from heating.
Other common signs that the Thermocouple is going bad include delayed ignition or a weak pilot flame. This could be caused by dirt or debris that has accumulated on the tip of the thermocouple. It could also be due to physical damage or wear and tear. In either case a replacement is probably in order.
To replace the Thermocouple you will need to disconnect all of the gas lines to your water heater, which is why it’s always best to have a professional handle it. They will be able to safely disassemble the parts that would normally be flowing with gas, and then reassemble them to avoid any leaks or dangerous situations.
If you decide to do this yourself make sure that you are familiar with how to properly disassemble a water heater, you have the proper tools for the job, and you are comfortable using a multimeter to test for electrical connections. Using a multimeter to test for any problems with your Thermocouple is very important as you are dealing with a component that controls gas flow, which is a flammable substance! It is also a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or a reliable repair guide to avoid any mistakes that can lead to further issues.
Element
If you’re having trouble with your electric water heater and can’t seem to get warm or hot showers, it could be a problem with the heating element. This is a common issue that can be easily resolved by a professional plumber.
You can identify the problem with your water heater by turning off the power to the unit and using a multimeter to check the wiring and the element for resistance and voltage levels. If you suspect that the heating element is faulty, it’s recommended that you replace it as soon as possible to prevent the problem from deteriorating further and causing more issues with your water heater.
The first step in diagnosing a problem with your heating element is to turn off the power supply to the unit by shutting off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse that controls electricity to the water heater. You should also wear rubber gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from electrical shocks. Next, remove the panel secured by screws on the side of the tank and remove any insulation that is present. Make sure you close the drain valve at the bottom of the tank before attempting to work on it.
After you’ve disconnected the wires that connect to the heating element, you can test it by touching one of the screw terminals with the non-contact voltage detector and observing whether the needle moves. If it does, the element is grounded and needs to be replaced immediately. If the needle doesn’t move, it means that the wiring is in good condition and that the problem with your water heater lies elsewhere.
Sediment buildup is a common cause of a burned-out heating element, and it can be prevented by regularly flushing the tank. Another common reason for a burnt-out element is that it’s just getting old and is beginning to fail. If you notice that the hot water is running out quickly, this is a clear sign of an aging or damaged heating element.
When you’re ready to replace your electric water heater element, be sure to buy a replacement that has the same voltage and wattage rating as the old one. You can find this information on the data plate located on the flange of the heating element or on the unit itself. Then, install the new heating element by threading it clockwise into the socket or inserting it into a flange-type opening and tightening the mounting screws.
Dip Tube
Water Heater Dip Tubes perform an essential function in the operation of your hot water heater. They are located at the cold water inlet to the tank and help direct cold water down into the bottom of the tank where it is heated by either a gas burner or electric heating element. Then, once the water is hot, it rises to the top of the tank. A small tube at the top of the tank then allows the warm water to exit. If the dip tube is broken or damaged, your supply of hot water will be reduced. This is a common complaint I hear from home owners.
Dip tubes can be prone to breaking due to their constant exposure to high temperature water (140 degrees) and thermal expansion and contraction. They can also be prone to being dislodged from their point of attachment. When they break, the amount of hot water available decreases and faucets may become clogged with plastic pieces from the broken dip tube.
In some cases, a simple repair can fix the problem. If you suspect your dip tube is defective, first shut off the power to your water heater at the circuit breaker. Drain the water heater tank to eliminate any plastic flecks inside and then remove the cold water inlet pipe and the nipple at the top of the dip tube to access the tube. Use a flat screwdriver to loosen the nipple and pull out the old tube.
Once you have removed the old tube, install a new one. You should choose a tube made of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) to ensure it is durable and won’t break down inside the water heater. It is important to install the new dip tube so that it extends to the bottom of the tank. A curved tube will do this for you, but it is important to note which way the curve is facing when you put in the new one.
Once you’ve installed the new tube, reconnect the cold water inlet pipe and nipple, and turn your power back on. Once the tank refills, conduct temperature and pressure tests to assess your water heater’s performance.
Pressure Valve
The pressure-relief valve might be a minor player in the grand symphony of water heater parts but it’s a crucial one. This unsung hero guards against excessive pressure in the tank that could cause it to burst and flood your home. Like all sentinels, however, it requires periodic maintenance to keep its job. Sediment accumulation, corrosion, or even mechanical failure can compromise its effectiveness and require it to be replaced.
A leaking TPR valve should always be inspected by a professional. If the lever is stuck open, it might be due to a mineral deposit build-up that’s hindering its closing action. Alternatively, it might indicate that the valve is failing and must be replaced.
Valves that leak continuously should be replaced as soon as possible. This is a clear sign that they are worn out and failing to do their job. Corrosion, visible damage, or other signs of wear should also prompt a TPR valve replacement to ensure safety.
Water heater pressure valves are designed to crack open when the temperature and pressure of upstream water reaches a certain threshold. This allows the excess pressure to escape without damaging the water heater or your pipes. But sometimes the valves can become stuck open, and continue to release water even after upstream pressure has dropped a few psi. This is why it’s important to test the TPR valve regularly and pair this routine maintenance with an annual water heater flush.
To test the TPR valve, position a bucket underneath the discharge tube and lift the lever. The water should immediately enter the bucket. If the valve is functioning correctly, it should stay open until the water cools down. Then, it will close and return to its normal state. A faulty relief valve, on the other hand, will not respond to the test and may fail to shut off once the pressure in the tank has risen above its set limit. A failed valve will not protect your water heater or your home and should be replaced immediately. You should always hire a professional to perform the testing and replacement of your TPR valve.
