How To Solve 3 Common Problems With Gas Water Heaters

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Water heaters are one of the most indispensable of all home appliances. Thus, when something goes wrong with the water heater, many homeowners are thrown into a panic. Luckily, many of the most commonly experienced issues are relatively easy to correct--even if you're not a professional plumber! Read on to learn how to deal with three common ailments of gas water heaters.

Water has begun to pool up around the heater.

Water on the outside of your water heater is usually a sign that you're dealing with a leak. If you've got an older heater, this often means that corrosion has progressed to a serious degree. In such a case, replacing the heater outright may end up being your best option.

In newer heaters, however, pooling water may also be the result of an overheating unit. When the heat of the water is too high, there is a much greater chance of the relief valve developing a leak. See if you can't correct the problem by using your water heater's temperature adjustment knob to reduce the temperature. If the leak persists, there's a good chance that corrosion is at the heart of the problem.

Hot water smells rotten and/or fishy.

One of the most important parts of a water heater is known as the anode rod. Its job is to prevent corrosion by sacrificing itself. In order to do this, the anode rod is composed of a type of metal that attracts corrosive elements--usually magnesium and/or aluminum. Unfortunately, these metals can often lead to stinky side-effects when certain types of otherwise harmless bacteria get into your tank.

The best way to remedy this problem is to upgrade your anode rod. What you'll want is a rod that contains a small proportion of the metal zinc. This zinc will help to inhibit the proliferation of the bacteria that lead to foul smelling water.

Strange sounds when running.

Water heaters often develop tics in the form of strange noises. From pops, to clicks, to snaps, these annoying sounds are usually the result of sediment that has built up on the bottom of the tank. As this sediment absorbs heat--the heat that should be going to your water--it expands, causing a range of unwanted sounds.

To promote a quieter--and more efficient--water heater, you'll need to flush the tank. Before you get started, just be sure to turn off the heater and give the water several hours to cool down. If not, you risk scalding yourself with the hot water.

To learn more, visit a website like http://alwaysreadyrepair.com/.

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2 March 2016

Talking About Electric Heating Systems

Hi there, my name is Shelley. Welcome to my site about electric heating systems. Electric heat has recently fallen out of favor due to the efficiency of natural gas systems. Electric heat is still suitable for small buildings that do not need the high temps provided by upgraded systems. I will use this site to explore all of the building types that can benefit from electric heating systems. I will also share information about system components, installations and repairs. I welcome you to come by often to learn more about this exciting topic. Thanks for coming by. See you soon.