Common Water Heater Problems and Solutions

No one wants to be surprised by an icy shower or a puddle of water in the utility room. When your water heater isn’t working properly, it can throw your whole day off. Whether it’s inconsistent hot water, strange noises, or visible leaks, water heater problems are more common than you might think—and they tend to show up at the worst possible times.

In this blog, Stellar Services explores some of the most frequent water heater issues homeowners in Newberry, and surrounding areas face and what types of repairs may be needed to get things back on track. From faulty thermostats to sediment buildup and worn-out heating elements, understanding these problems can help you spot early warning signs, prevent costly damage, and know when it’s time to call a professional.

Common Water Heater Problems and Solutions

Like any hard-working appliance, your water heater is bound to have issues from time to time. The good news is that many of the most common problems are fixable, especially if you catch them early.

1. No Hot Water
2. Water Takes Too Long to Heat
3. Inconsistent Water Temperature
4. Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
5. Ignition Button Doesn’t Work
6. Strange Noises Coming From the Tank
7. Rusty or Discolored Water
8. Water Leaks Around the Heater

Water Heater Repair #1: No Hot Water

The Problem: This one’s obvious—and frustrating. You turn on the hot water tap, but all you get is cold water. Most modern water heaters (even gas) use an electronic ignition system instead of a standing pilot light to ignite the burners that warm your water. If the water heater does not ignite, it may be due to:

Possible Causes:

• A broken ignitor
• A tripped circuit breaker
• Faulty heating elements or thermostat

Solutions:

• Try to reset your water heater at the breaker panel.
• Having a professional replace the ignitor, heating element, or thermostat may be necessary.

Water Heater Repair #2: Water Takes Too Long to Heat

The Problem: Your water eventually gets hot—but it feels like forever before it does.

Possible Causes:

• Sediment buildup inside the tank
• A failing heating element
• A water heater that’s too small for your household’s demand

Solutions:

• Flush the tank to remove sediment (more on this below).
• Have a technician inspect the heating elements.
• If your household’s hot water needs have outgrown your current heater, consider upgrading to a larger unit or a tankless system.

Water Heater Repair #3: Inconsistent Water Temperature

The Problem: You start with a hot shower, and halfway through—boom! Cold water.

Possible Causes:

• A broken thermostat
• Malfunctioning heating elements
• Sediment is insulating the heating elements

Solutions:

• Replace the faulty thermostat or heating element.
• Flush your tank to clear out any sediment that might interfere with heat transfer.

Water Heater Repair #4: Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

The Problem: You have an older water heater with a pilot light. You keep relighting the pilot, and it works—for a while—but then it goes out again.

Possible Causes:

• A dirty or damaged thermocouple
• A draft is blowing out the flame
• A clogged pilot tube
• A failing gas control valve

Solutions:

• Clean or replace the thermocouple (this part senses when the pilot light is on and allows the gas valve to stay open).
• Check for drafts or ventilation issues near the water heater.
• Call a professional to inspect the gas control valve if other solutions don’t resolve the issue.

Water Heater Repair #5: Ignition Button Stops Working

The Problem: You have no hot water and decide to troubleshoot. When you press the ignition button, nothing happens.

Possible Causes:

• A dirty or damaged thermocouple (in models that still use them)
• A worn-out or faulty ignition switch
• Dead or disconnected igniter battery (for newer models)
• Loose wiring or corroded connections
• A malfunctioning spark electrode

Solutions:

• Replace the igniter battery (usually found behind a small panel) if applicable.
• Clean or replace the thermocouple.
• Try pressing the igniter several times to ensure it’s not just a stuck mechanism.
• Call a pro to inspect and tighten loose wires or clean corroded terminals.
• If the button still won’t spark, the ignition assembly may need to be repaired or replaced—contact a licensed technician.

Water Heater Repair #6: Strange Noises Coming From the Tank

The Problem: Your water heater sounds like it’s brewing a pot of coffee—or worse, making loud popping or rumbling noises.

Possible Causes:

• Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank
• Overheating due to restricted heat transfer
• Air pockets forming under sediment layers

Solutions:

• Drain and flush the tank. This helps remove sediment and should be done at least once a year.
• If the noise continues after flushing, the heating element may be burning out or the tank may be too damaged—have it inspected.

Water Heater Repair #7: Rusty or Discolored Water

The Problem: Your hot water comes out with a reddish or brownish tint—not exactly inviting.

Possible Causes:

• Corrosion inside the tank
• Failing anode rod (this part helps prevent tank rust)

Solutions:

• Flush the tank to see if that helps.
• Replace the anode rod—this is a relatively inexpensive fix that can extend the life of your water heater.
• If the tank is rusted through, replacement is the only option.

Water Heater Repair #8: Water Leaks Around the Heater

The Problem: You notice puddles or dampness around the base of your water heater.

Possible Causes:

• Loose plumbing connections
• Faulty temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve
• Internal tank corrosion

Solutions:

• Tighten any visible connections and inspect the T&P valve.
• Unfortunately, if the leak is coming from the tank itself, it’s time for a new unit. A leaking tank cannot be repaired.

Prevention Tips: Keep Your Water Heater in Top Shape

A little maintenance can go a long way in preventing problems. Here are some easy ways to extend your water heater’s lifespan:

• Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment.
• Inspect the anode rod every 2–3 years and replace it when it’s heavily corroded.
• Test the pressure relief valve by lifting the lever and letting it snap back—it should release water. If it doesn’t, replace it.
• Schedule annual maintenance with a licensed plumber to catch issues early.

When to Call a Pro for Water Heater Repairs in Newberry

While some of these fixes are doable for a handy homeowner, others (like replacing thermostats or heating elements) are best left to a plumber.

If you’re ever unsure or just don’t have the time for a DIY or if your water heater is more than 8–12 years old it’s worth having a licensed technician take a look.

Need Help With Your Water Heater in Newberry?

If you’re dealing with any of the problems listed above—or your water heater just isn’t performing like it used to—don’t wait for a full breakdown. Give your local Newberry, plumbing experts at Stellar Services call at 352-353-1979 or request service online.

A quick inspection and repair today can save you from a chilly surprise tomorrow.