Is your water heater acting up again? Failing to get water at the desired temperature? Think it’s time to replace your current unit? Contact Raleigh Plumbing Pros to find the most cost-effective solution. Our Raleigh Plumbing Pros water heater specialists will diagnose the problem and determine if a basic repair or a complete unit replacement is right for you. Click here to read what your neighbors are saying in our customer reviews.

Water heaters may seem simple on the outside, but they involve a number of features and components working hard to give you the hot water you need. Components such as the shut-off valve, heat-out pipe, thermostat, heating mechanism, drain valve, and pressure relief valve can wear down over time and present problems.

Below are common problems we can help you solve:

Lack of hot water: If your tank is not heating water properly, you may have a broken or damaged dip tube; if the problem occurs with a gas heater, the pilot light may have gone out. If you have an electric water heater and you are not getting hot water at all, the problem could lie in a tripped breaker or malfunctioning thermostat.

Unusual sounds: Low echoing or popping noises are caused by excessive sediment in the bottom of the tank. This can cause overheating in your unit.

Leaking tank: Water leaking from the bottom of the tank is caused by a faulty temperature and pressure relief valve.

Foul odors: If there is a foul odor coming from your water (often a rotten egg smell), there is likely bacteria in the tank.

Rust-colored water: This is a sign of corrosion built up inside the tank, or else the result of a failed sacrificial anode rod.

We can help you solve these problems and more with a thorough inspection. Getting to the source of the problem is important in determining the most efficient method of repair. If we find that a replacement will be more cost-effective, we will discuss your options and present you with choices that fit your needs and budget.

Deciding to replace your entire unit depends on a number of factors.

Consider the age of the water heater. Electric water heaters last about 8-10 years before showing signs of trouble; gas units start losing efficiency after 6-8 years. If your water heater is older, replacing it with a more efficient unit will help you save in the long run.

Before replacing your unit, we will also check if any leaking problems are the result of a cracked tank. If the tank is is showing rust or corrosion, replacement is the ideal option.

If the water tank is not draining water through the drain valve due to sediment build up, this is another sign that you will need to replace your water heater.

The most effective way to preserve the efficiency of your water heater is to maintain it on a regular basis. Below are simple tips to help prolong the life of your unit, avoid problems, and provide you with maximum efficiency.

Here is what we do during annual maintenance:

• Drain your water heater tank to get rid of sediment, which can create rust and corrosion
• Test the pressure relief valve to see if it releases water into the overflow drain pipe (if you have any issues with water flow, we will install a new pressure relief valve)
• Check the thermostat and make sure the temperature is set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (this will help prevent overheating and damage to the tank)
• Inspect the sacrificial anode rod and make sure it is not corroded (this can be checked every three years)