Water Heater Not Heating? Edmonton, Let’s Turn Up The Heat

There's nothing quite as infuriating as taking a subpar shower in your own home. You've just returned from Rabbit Hill after a fantastic day of skiing. The thought of a relaxing hot shower or bath is what's keeping you going on the car ride back from the slopes. Within seconds, your water turns as cold as the powder on the slopes. What is the problem? Your hot water tank, that's what. This essential household appliance typically lasts around 8 - 10 years. Whether it's reaching its expiration date or in need of maintenance, finding a quick solution is important.

In Edmonton, hot water is a necessity, unless you’re some sort of Viking. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton is your one-stop shop for information, maintenance, and repair regarding your household's water heater unit. With a local reputation for excellence, our licensed plumbers are dedicated to restoring your heaters to their optimal function. We've got the tools, knowledge, and commitment to provide efficient and effective solutions to your plumbing anxieties.

Is your water heater not heating? Read on to discover the root of water heater issues, and see how our experts will reverse your plumbing woes.

Water Heater Not Heating: Here’s What We Know

Water Heater Is Not Heating Water

The most common complaints we receive about malfunctioning water heaters is that it is simply not heating. Adjusting the water tank thermostat can solve many cases, but sometimes the problem can be worse. If the water temperature doesn't change despite adjusting the thermostat, it's possible that you have a faulty thermostat. The solution? Replacing the thermostat. If your water heater is not producing hot water, it may be due to a power shortage, a tripped limit switch, or malfunctioning heating elements.

Here's how to find the problem:

Electric Water Heater Checks

Scope out your water heater's circuit breaker in the service panel to make sure it hasn't tripped. If it has, turn it off and then back on. If the heater's breaker did not trip, perform the Great Reset. Reset the temperature limit on the heater. To do this, turn off the power to the water heater in the service panel. After, remove the access panel and press the high-temperature reset button.

Gas Water Heater Checks

To ensure hot water in your gas water heater, check if the pilot light is lit (if equipped). If the temperature has dipped significantly, it is likely that there is a problem with the ignition system. If the water heater isn't heating, even with a lit pilot light, it's best to call professional plumbers to check for problems.

Limescale Buildup In The Hot Water Tank

Water heaters in Edmonton have to deal with hard water, as the local tap water has a hardness level of 10 to 15 GPG. Limescale buildup is the result of hard water flowing freely through piping and appliances. Minerals in hard water can build up and create a tough coating on plumbing fixtures, which can decrease water flow by forming thick deposits. Water heaters are the most susceptible appliance in your home to fall prey to limescale. During water heating, some limescale comes out of solution and settles in the tank. Once the limescale starts to build up, it slows down the heating ability of the heater and accelerates the wear of the water heater.

Three common symptoms of limescale buildup in water heaters are:

Banging or crackling sounds from the heater
Rust-coloured water with a foul odour
Failure of the heating element

We suggest installing a water softener which will remove all of the hardness from the water before it reaches the water softener. This will eliminate limescale buildup before it even reaches the tank. A water heater that is free from limescale will greatly enhance its performance, while substantially reducing the likelihood of any detrimental effects on the heating element.

Leaky Water Heater

Leaky water heaters are the result of a plethora of problems, such as:

Pressure Relief Valve Issues: The pressure relief valve is an essential safety feature of your appliance. Its purpose is to release excessive pressure in order to prevent the tank from forcefully bursting. If this valve malfunctions or develops a fault, it can lead to a leak in your water heater, causing damage to the surrounding areas. When the pressure inside the tank surpasses safe levels, the valve will open. This is a grave issue that demands prompt attention, as it can indicate a potentially hazardous situation.
Corrosion: Over time, appliances are prone to corrosion, which can lead to the formation of cracks. This is especially common in metal tanks that are susceptible to rust. Corrosion compromises the structural integrity of the tank. While corrosion is a natural process that results in rusty water, regular maintenance and vigilant monitoring for signs of rust or degradation can significantly extend the lifespan of your unit.
Sediment Buildup and Mineral Deposits: The accumulation of sediment, a common occurrence in a water supply, tends to settle at the bottom of a tank. As time goes by, this sediment has the potential to create a layer of insulation around the heating element, leading to overheating and erratic water temperatures. The additional heat can even result in damage to the tank, ultimately causing leaks. However, by routinely flushing the tubes and tank to eliminate any sediment or mineral buildup, this problem can be easily avoided.
Faulty Drain Valve: Each unit is equipped with a drain valve, which is essential for maintenance purposes such as clearing sediment or debris buildup. A loose or damaged valve can result in leakage, posing a risk to both your unit and the surrounding areas in your basement or utility room. It is imperative to address this issue promptly to prevent any further damage.
Excessive Pressure: High pressure in your plumbing system can strain your heater and lead to water leaks or even a burst tank, causing significant water damage. Installing a pressure regulator can help maintain safe pressure levels and safeguard your appliance from such issues.
Poor Installation: Improper installation is often the primary reason for leaks. If fittings, plumbing pipes, gas valves, or connections are not installed correctly, it can result in leaks over time. It's essential to enlist the services of a skilled, licensed and experienced plumber to ensure the proper installation of your water heater and prevent potential issues down the line.
Cracks in the Tank: Cracks or dents in your water heater tank can result in leaks, posing a threat to your home. It’s vital to detect any visible damage caused by accidents or mishandling during installation. By promptly inspecting and addressing such issues, you can effectively avoid potential leaks and their consequences.

Hot Water Heater Not Heating Up in Edmonton? Professional Water Heater Repair is Underway

Attempting to repair plumbing fixtures such as water heaters through DIY methods is strongly discouraged, particularly if you do not have the essential tools, expertise, or time to do so. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we have a team of highly skilled professionals who specialize in trivialities such as water heaters. Here is how our pros handle the situation:

Initial Assessment
Isolation
Water Heater Repair or Replacement
Testing and Verification
Cleanup and Restoration
Preventative Measure and Maintenance

When Your Water Heater is Not Heating, Don’t Shiver. Count On Our Professional Plumbing Services For Expert Repair

When you choose to hire Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton to get your water heater back to optimal health, you are choosing experienced professionals who take a comprehensive approach to the problem. We understand how wrong it is to turn the tap to hot, and only get cold water. You have discovered the experts who will ensure your home's plumbing functions optimally both now and in the years to come.

Don't be cold. Alberta experiences too much of that anyway. Just because it may be cold outside doesn't mean it needs to be in your shower. Your water heaters in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and Fort Saskatchewan will provide hot water when needed, as long as we're there! Contact the friendly customer service representatives at Mr. Rooter Plumbing today to get started! We look forward to serving you.