Hot water is something most of us don’t think about—until it’s gone. From morning showers to doing laundry, a functioning water heater is essential for daily comfort. When your water heater starts acting up, it’s not just inconvenient—it can also lead to costly damage if ignored.
As professionals who specialize in water heater repairs, we’re often asked whether homeowners can handle certain fixes themselves. The short answer: yes, for many common issues. In this blog, we’ll walk you through DIY steps for hot water heater repair and share maintenance tips to avoid bigger problems down the road
Understand Your Water Heater
There are two primary types of water heaters:
- Tank Water Heaters – Store a set amount of hot water and heat it continuously.
- Tankless Water Heaters – Heat water only when you need it, without storing it.
Each type has unique components, but many common issues—like heating problems or sediment buildup—can affect both.
Common Water Heater Problems and Fixes
1. No Hot Water
This is the most obvious sign something is wrong.
Possible Causes:
- Tripped circuit breaker (for electric heaters)
- Faulty thermostat
- Broken heating element
Quick Fix:
Reset the breaker. If that doesn’t work, test the heating element with a multimeter and replace it if needed.
2. Not Enough Hot Water
Running out of hot water too quickly?
Causes Could Be:
- Sediment buildup
- Thermostat set too low
- The Water heater is too small for household demand
Fix:
Flush the tank to remove sediment, and set the thermostat to 120°F (49°C).
3. Strange Noises
Banging or popping sounds are usually caused by sediment buildup, which traps water and causes steam bubbles.
Fix:
Drain and flush the tank to clear sediment. Doing this annually can significantly extend the unit’s lifespan.
4. Water Leaks
Leaks can come from:
- Pressure relief valve
- Drain valve
- Cracked tank (requires replacement)
Quick Tip:
Inspect valves and connections for leaks. Tighten or replace components as needed. If the tank itself is leaking, it’s time for a new unit.
Step-by-Step: How to Repair Your Water Heater
Step 1: Turn Off Power and Water
- Electric: Shut off the breaker.
- Gas: Set gas valve to “pilot.”
- Turn off the cold water supply to the tank.
Step 2: Drain the Tank
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and let the water flow into a safe location. Draining is key before flushing or replacing parts.
Step 3: Inspect or Replace the Heating Element (Electric Units)
- Open the access panel and remove the element.
- Use a multimeter to check continuity.
Replace if there’s no reading.
Step 4: Flush the Tank
With the tank drained:
- Open the cold water valve briefly to stir up remaining sediment.
- Let the water drain again.
- Repeat until water runs clear.
Step 5: Test the Thermostat
- Electric: Adjust with a screwdriver inside the panel.
- Gas: Adjust the temperature dial near the burner.
Step 6: Check the Pressure Relief Valve
Lift the lever to test water flow. Replace the valve if it doesn’t open or close properly—it’s a crucial safety feature.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
As professionals, we always recommend these routine checks:
- Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment.
- Test the pressure relief valve every 6 months.
- Check the anode rod every 2–3 years to reduce internal corrosion.
Insulate your heater and pipes to save energy and reduce heat loss.
When to Call a Professional
While many water heater issues can be fixed with basic tools and safety precautions, some problems—like gas leaks, internal corrosion, or tank cracks—require professional expertise. If your water heater is over 10 years old and having frequent issues, replacement may be the better option.
Need help? We specialize in fast, affordable water heater repair and replacement services. Contact us today for professional support and peace of mind.
Looking for reliable water heater repair near you? Trust the experts to get the job done right.
Ready to schedule your annual Hot Water Heater maintenance?
Contact John Degrace Plumbing & Heating today to book a convenient appointment and keep your home comfortable in every season.
