There are a few ways in which water heaters in Fairfax VA can manifest problems. Maybe the water goes cool a little too fast when you wash the dishes, or maybe the water carries the unmistakable, and un-drinking-friendly, odor of rotten eggs. Or maybe you wake up one morning and start the water for the shower while you brush your teeth, and then you notice that the water never got hot. Now that is a bracing way to start the day!
Water heaters in Fairfax VA that fail to heat the water often have problems with the pilot light. The thermocouple adjusts the fuel supply in response to the pilot light’s flame. When a thermocouple is moved out of position, the pilot light can cease to work properly. The pilot light can also be blown out by a downdraft.
Water heaters in Fairfax VA can also leak from a compromised plumbing connection or due to issues with the temperature and pressure relief valve. You need to have your hot water heaters examined every year, especially as winter starts and pipes are subjected to more extreme environmental pressure and strains.
Sometimes the water is hot but also has an odor to it. This occurs because of reactions between bacteria and sulfates in the water. If the odor is in the cold water only, then the problem is with the water supply itself, and you should get in touch with your water provider. However, if the smell occurs with the hot water, then it means that the water heater will need to be sanitized.
What If I Need To Replace My Water Heater?
Water heaters in Fairfax VA come in a variety of types: electric, gas, and even solar. Converting from one style to another can be costly. Electric heaters tend to last slightly longer than gas ones, but solar heaters can come with tax incentives for installation as well as save money in energy use over time. Nevertheless, installation can be difficult. Tankless water heaters are a newer option still, but these can have the downside of not allowing too many hot-water activities (e.g., laundry and dish washing) to be done simultaneously without compromise of the water heating.
Whether you’re replacing your water heater or getting it fixed, routine maintenance can prevent future problems. Repair or replace the pipe insulation and tank insulation as needed, check the anode rod and replace it if it is corroded, and test the relief valve for proper function. Also drain and flush the tank yearly. These steps can keep water heaters in Fairfax VA in good repair for years of hot morning showers to come!
Water Heaters Fairfax VA – For tips on keeping your water heater in top shape, and for questions about annual maintenance for all water heaters in Fairfax VA, contact the experts at Theplumbingdr.com.