Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues with Water Heaters

Installing a water heater should be a simple job. But what if you turn on the tap and get nothing but cold water? Or do you notice water pooling around the unit? Dealing with these problems right after a water heater installment is a serious deal-breaker.

Before you call a plumber, it’s good to understand what might have gone wrong. Some issues have simple fixes you can try yourself. Others may need professional help. Let’s go over the most common installation problems and how to solve them in this plumbing guide.

No Hot Water

Nothing is more frustrating than a water heater that doesn’t heat. If your new unit isn’t working, there are a few things to check.

• For electric water heaters, the problem might be a power issue. First, make sure the heater is plugged in. If that’s not the issue, check the circuit breaker. If the breaker has tripped, reset it and see if the heater starts working. If it trips again, there may be a wiring problem. You’ll need an electrician or plumber to inspect the connections.
• If you have a gas water heater, check the pilot light. If it’s out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If it doesn’t stay lit, the gas supply may be turned off. Make sure the gas valve is fully open. If the pilot still won’t stay on, the thermocouple might be faulty. This small part detects whether the flame is burning. If it’s broken, a plumber will need to replace it.

Sometimes, the thermostat can also be the culprit. The water won’t get hot enough if the temperature is set below 120°F. Try adjusting it and give the heater some time to warm up. If it still isn’t working, the thermostat itself could be faulty.

Water Leaks

A leaking water heater is a serious issue. If left alone, it can cause major damage on top of its electrocution risk.

Leaks often come from loose connections. The inlet and outlet pipes must be tightly secured. If you see dripping water, use a wrench to gently tighten the fittings. Be careful not to overtighten, as that can crack the pipes.

Improper pipe sealing can also cause leaks. If water is coming from the threaded joints, the sealant may not have been applied properly. Plumbers use Teflon tape or pipe joint compound to prevent leaks. If you did the tanked or tankless water heater installment yourself, you may need to remove and reseal the connections.

Sometimes, leaks come from the pressure relief valve. This safety feature releases excess pressure from the tank. If water is constantly dripping from it, the pressure inside the tank may be too high. A plumber can check if the valve is faulty or if there’s an issue with the water pressure.

Low Hot Water Pressure

Weak water pressure can make showers and sinks frustrating to use. If you just installed a water heater and the pressure is low, there are a few possible causes.

Sediment buildup inside the tank can slow water flow. Minerals from the water supply settle at the bottom over time. This can block the pipes, making it harder for water to move through. To fix this, you need to flush the tank. Attach a hose to the drain valve and let the water run out until it’s clear.

Older homes may have small supply pipes. If your home has narrow pipes, the water flow will be restricted. Upgrading to larger pipes can help improve pressure. A plumber can assess whether your pipes are the right size.

Partially closed valves can also affect pressure. If the main shutoff valve or the heater’s inlet valve isn’t fully open, water flow will be weak. Check both and make sure they’re completely turned on.

Strange Noises

A water heater should run quietly. If you hear strange sounds, something isn’t right.

Air trapped in the tank can cause bubbling or hissing noises. If this happens, turn on your hot water taps and let the air escape. Running the water for a few minutes should clear the issue.

Sediment buildup can also create noise. If you hear a popping or rumbling sound, minerals may have collected at the bottom of the tank. As the heater runs, water gets trapped under the sediment, creating pressure that makes noise. Flushing the tank can help remove the buildup.

If you hear banging or knocking, your pipes may be expanding. When hot water moves through them, they can shift and hit walls or other pipes. Adding insulation around the pipes can reduce the noise. A plumber can also install water hammer arrestors to absorb the movement.

Smelly or Discolored Water

If your hot water smells bad or looks dirty, it’s a sign of trouble.

Bacteria growth inside the tank can make the water smell like rotten eggs. This often happens if the heater hasn’t been used for a while. Flushing the tank can help get rid of the bacteria. Some plumbers recommend adding hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the tank.

Rusty or brown water is usually a sign of a corroded anode rod. This rod is inside the heater and prevents the tank from rusting. Over time, it wears down and needs to be replaced. If you notice discolored water, replacing the anode rod can fix the problem.

Water Too Hot or Too Cold

Inconsistent water temperature is another common problem.

A faulty thermostat can cause the water to be too hot or too cold. If adjusting the settings doesn’t help, the thermostat may need to be replaced. A plumber can test it and install a new one if necessary.

Electric water heaters have heating elements inside the tank. If one of them fails, the water won’t get hot enough. A plumber can check the elements and replace any that are burned out.

Some water heaters have a mixing valve that blends hot and cold water. If this valve is installed incorrectly, you may get sudden temperature changes. Adjusting or replacing the valve can help stabilize the water temperature.

When to Call a Professional

Some water heater problems need expert attention. Call a plumber if you smell gas near your heater. This could indicate a gas leak, which is dangerous. You should also get help if the leaks won’t stop after tightening connections.

If the breaker keeps tripping, there may be a serious electrical issue. Strange noises that don’t go away after flushing the tank may also need a professional inspection.

If you’re unsure what’s causing the problem, it’s best to call a licensed plumber. They can diagnose the issue and fix it safely.

Stop Risking Your Safety and Comfort—Get Top-Rated Water Heater Solutions with Acacias Plumbing

Dealing with water heater problems always puts a dent in your productivity and mood. But why struggle further when expert help is just a phone call away?

At Acacias Plumbing, we specialize in fast, reliable water heater installation and repair. Our skilled plumbers handle everything from leaks to heating issues. We make sure your water heater runs safely and efficiently.

No more cold showers. No more weak pressure. No more worrying about leaks.

Call us today and get your water heater working like new!