Your water heater is an important part of your home, but you may not pay much attention to it until it stops working. There are common issues you might have with your water heater, and a little information can help you problem-solve. A leaking valve or a thermostat set to the wrong temperature could be the only issue, and either of these would be an easy fix. Take the time to get your water heating system repaired when you notice leaks or temperature problems so that you have a system optimized for your use.

There's Water Leaking Out of the Top

A small amount of water can leak out of the top of your hot water heater, or the inlet valve for your cold water or the outlet valve for the hot water could be loose. The shutoff valve could be leaking, or the T&P valve might need to be replaced. If you see water on the top of your hot water tank, it's time for a repair.

Small Leaks From the Bottom

Your hot water tank can leak from the bottom if there is condensation or if a gasket is loose and causing the leak. If the leak becomes large, this is an indication that you have a hole in your hot water tank and it might need to be replaced.

You Don't Have Enough Hot Water

Not enough hot water can mean your heating element isn't working correctly or there is too much sediment in the bottom of your hot water heater. You might have a tank that is too small to meet the needs of your home, so a new system will likely service your family more effectively.

Your Water Gets Too Hot

If your water is too hot, you probably have an issue with the thermostat setting. If your water remains too hot even when you turn down the thermostat, you probably need your thermostat replaced.

You Have Brown Water

Brown water is an indication that you have corrosion inside your hot water tank. You can't do much about internal corrosion except to replace the water heater. You can try having your system cleaned and the current water drained out to remove any sediment. If your water remains brown, you need a new hot water tank.

Your water heater has a life span of roughly 8 to 12 years. Once your system starts to show signs of corrosion, you will need to invest in a new water heater. Contact a water heater repair service to see if they can help you first.

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