Water heaters are an important element of any home; after all, it is responsible for producing all the warm water you and your family use on a daily basis for cooking, cleaning, and bathing. While most water heaters are designed to last for years with relatively few problems, issues can—and do—still arise.

Common Problems With Water Heaters

If you notice any of the following issues with your water heater, it’s time to call a professional plumber to diagnose the problem:

• Water leaking from the top or bottom of of the water heater
• Water temperature can’t be regulated by adjusting the thermostat
• Water takes too long to reheat
• Low water pressure
• Water heater is making popping, hissing, banging, knocking, or other strange noises
• Your water looks dirty or rusty
• Your water has a bad odor
• Pilot light or burner won’t light or keeps going out (applies to gas water heaters)

When you call Simply Green Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter about a water heater issue, we’ll send a trained technician to assess the problem and provide you with recommendations on remedying the situation. If repairs are needed, we will provide you with an estimate on the cost to do so. If we determine the issues cannot be fixed, or that it’s less costly in the long run to replace your water heater, we’ll advise you of options. 

When To Replace Your Water Heater

While some water heater issues, such as sediment buildup, can be taken care of relatively easily with routine maintenance and repairs, other problems might require complete replacement. The overall age and performance of your water heater will also play a role in determining whether you should have your system replaced.

You may want to consider replacement if your water heater:

• Is more than 8 to 12 years old (depending on the manufacturer’s specifications)
• Is not very efficient and you want to lower your energy expenses
• There is corrosion or rust built up on or inside your water heater
• Is leaking, since leaks in this piece of equipment cannot be repaired.

For water heater replacement, you have several choices. 

• Conventional storage tank water heater
• Tankless water heater
• Heat pump water heater
• Solar powered water heater
• Condensing water heater

Each type has its pros and cons. Simply Green can provide you with criteria to weigh your options and decide on the type of water heater that’s right for you and your home. 

If you were satisfied with your old water heater’s performance, you may just want to replace it with the same or similar type. Manufacturers are always improving their water heaters, so even if you replace the broken one with a similar model, you’ll get more efficient performance.

Trust Our Team With Your Water Heater Service Needs

When your water heater goes out, fixing or replacing it on your own may not be the best solution. Hiring a professional to repair or replace your water heater ensures the job is done correctly and meets all local code requirements.

Whether you need to have your water heater flushed, replaced, or maintained, Simply Green Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter is ready to get the job done. We can come out for a comprehensive water heater inspection and determine your best course of action. Our plumbers are trustworthy, dependable, and committed to your complete satisfaction—we even guarantee it!

If you need water heater services in Los Gatos, Saratoga, Monte Sereno, Campbell, Cupertino, San Jose, Willow Glen, or the surrounding areas, Simply Green Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter can help. We offer a full range of water heater services, including installation and replacement, repairs, and routine maintenance. We can even help you upgrade your home with a tankless water heater for better performance and energy cost savings.