There are several things you can do yourself to fix a faulty water heater. These include replacing the pressure relief valve, high-limit reset switch, and anode rods. It is also important to know how to replace the liner. The following guide will provide you with a few basic steps to follow when making this repair.
Anode rods prevent corrosion
If you’re trying to save money on water heater repair, you should always check the condition of your anode rod. If it’s not functioning properly, you may have to replace it. There are a few signs to look out for. The first is a strange odor in the water. Another sign is rust and cracks.
The anode rod should be inspected by a plumber at least once a year. This can be done during an annual maintenance appointment or during a flushing of the tank. If you have a water softener, this may need to be done even more frequently.
Replace the high-limit reset switch
If you’ve noticed that your water heater’s high-limit reset switch keeps tripping, it’s time to replace it. This mechanism prevents water from becoming too hot by cutting power to the heater. When it trips, it can be a sign of a larger problem, such as a faulty thermostat. Other problems can include loose wiring or corroded parts. In the worst case scenario, the high-limit reset switch can lead to extremely hot water.
A loose wire or wires that are not secured properly can cause the reset button to trip. This hot water heater replacement will cause a dangerous fire hazard, as the wire could pick up heat from the hot water. Another cause of high-limit reset button tripping is a shorted heating element. If the heating element shorts to the ground, it will short out and heat the water. A grounding problem can also cause the reset button to trip.
Replace the pressure relief valve
A water heater’s pressure relief valve should be replaced if it has become damaged. The valve is a small pipe that extends downward from the water tank. Ideally, it should never leak or allow water to flow through it. If it does, turn off the water supply and contact a plumber.
A water heater’s pressure relief valve is a safety device that releases water from the unit if it reaches an unhealthful level. Your water pressure may have been increased recently, causing the valve to malfunction. Check with your local water utility to see if it has been upgraded. If it is, replace the pressure relief valve and wait about three hours. In the meantime, run hot water until it reaches lukewarm.