A water heater is an integral part of your plumbing system because it provides hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry. When the water isn’t at the right temperature, it can be inconvenient or even unsanitary. Here are some common issues and some tips on how to fix them.

Water Too Hot

Scalding hot water can be dangerous, especially for kids and elderly people. If your water heater is set too high, it’s time to make adjustments. Most water heaters have a thermostat you can turn down. Be careful, though, because turning it down too much might lead to cold showers.

Water Too Cold

Nothing is worse than stepping into a cold shower. If your water heater isn’t providing enough hot water, there could be a few reasons. It might be time to replace the heating element or there might be a buildup of sediment at the bottom of the tank. This can reduce the efficiency of the water heater.

Fluctuating Water Temperature

If your water temperature keeps changing, it could be a sign of a problem with the thermostat or the mixing valve. The thermostat controls the temperature, and the mixing valve blends hot and cold water. Temperature fluctuations can occur if either of these parts is broken.

No Hot Water at All

Losing hot water completely is a major problem. This can occur because you have a problem with the heating element, the thermostat, or the water supply. If you’ve checked these things and still have no luck, it’s time to call a plumber.

Preventing Future Problems

To keep your water heater working efficiently, there are a few things you can do. Regularly have a professional plumber come and check the pressure relief valve to make sure it’s working properly. This valve helps prevent the tank from exploding if the pressure gets too high. You can also have a plumber flush out the sediment buildup to improve the performance of your water heater.

Scheduling professional maintenance once each year is a surefire way to keep your water heater in top shape. When you schedule a water heater maintenance appointment, a professional plumber will come to your house to give your water heater a checkup, and they’ll look at all the parts to make sure they’re working okay. They’ll check the temperature settings to make sure your water is hot but not too hot. They’ll also look for any leaks or signs of rust.

Another important thing they’ll do is flush out the tank. Over time, sediment can build up inside the water heater and make it less efficient. Flushing it out helps get rid of it. The plumber will also check the anode rod, which helps protect the tank from rust. They might need to replace it if it’s worn out.

After they’re done checking everything, they’ll tell you how your water heater is doing and if there’s anything you need to fix. They might also give you some tips on how to make your water heater last longer. For water heater services in Albuquerque, NM, call All-Out Plumbing.