5 Common Water Heater Problems and Solutions

Let’s be real: no one thinks about their water heater… until it stops working. Suddenly, you’re standing in an ice-cold shower, wide-eyed, shampoo still in your hair, wondering what you did to deserve this. We’ve all been there. The good news? Most water heater problems are actually pretty common—and better yet, many of them have straightforward fixes. Whether you’re dealing with a moody pilot light or water that smells suspiciously like rotten eggs, we’ve got your back. Here are 5 of the most common water heater problems, plus what you can do about them.

1. No Hot Water (The Classic Wake-Up Call)

What’s going on:
If you’re getting zero hot water, and your water heater is gas-powered, the culprit might be a blown-out pilot light or a faulty thermocouple. If it’s electric, the issue could be a tripped circuit breaker or a fried heating element.

How to fix it:

• For gas heaters: Check if the pilot light is out. If it is, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions (they’re usually on a sticker on the unit). If it won’t stay lit, it might be the thermocouple.

• For electric heaters: Head to your breaker panel. If nothing’s tripped, the heating element might need replacing. In which case, it’s time to call in a pro.

2. Water That’s Too Hot (Aka “I Just Got Scalded”)

What’s going on:
If your hot water feels more like lava, your thermostat may be set too high. It’s also possible that the thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced.

How to fix it:
First, dial that thermostat down. Most experts recommend setting it to around 120°F (any hotter, and you’re flirting with burns). Still too hot after the adjustment? You might be looking at a thermostat replacement.

3. Rust-Colored Water (Ew, No Thanks.)

What’s going on:
Rusty water coming from the hot side of your tap is usually a sign that your water heater’s tank is rusting from the inside. The anode rod—a little metal rod that helps prevent rust—might be worn out.

How to fix it:
You’ll want to replace the anode rod before the rust eats through your tank. If your water heater is over 10 years old, though, it might be time to start thinking about a replacement.

4. Weird Noises (Popping, Rumbling, and Other Creepy Sounds)

What’s going on:
Your water heater isn’t haunted—but it is probably full of sediment buildup. As water is heated, minerals like calcium and lime settle at the bottom of the tank and harden, which can cause your water heater to make strange noises and work harder than it needs to.

How to fix it:
Flush your water heater. (Yep, that’s a thing.) Draining the tank helps remove sediment. If you’re not sure how, a plumber can usually take care of it pretty quickly.

5. Leaks (Cue the Panic)

What’s going on:
Water pooling around your heater could be a loose connection, a broken valve, or worst-case scenario, a cracked tank.

How to fix it:
Start by checking all the connections and fittings. Sometimes, it’s just a loose drain valve that needs tightening. But if the tank itself is leaking… we hate to say it, but you’ll need a new one.

When in Doubt, Call the Pros

Sure, some of these fixes are DIY-friendly—but your water heater is a major appliance with gas, electricity, and high-temp water in the mix. If you’re ever unsure or smell gas, don’t risk it. Call a licensed plumber or technician right away.

And hey, if your water heater is more than 10-15 years old and giving you grief, it might be time to swap it out for something more efficient. (Hello, lower energy bills!)

Contact Done Right Today for Water Heater Repair and Replacement in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland

Keep an eye (and ear) out for the common issues listed above, and you’ll catch most problems before you’re stuck with cold showers and an emergency plumbing bill. Want help with maintenance, repairs, or choosing the right replacement? We’re just a call away. Contact Done Right Today...today!