Troubleshooting Water Heater Problems: Expert Tips from Dependable Plumbing Service

Our Expert Tips for Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Issues

A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt your daily routine and leave you without hot water when you need it most. From lukewarm showers to cold baths and insufficient heating, water heater problems can be frustrating and inconvenient. In this article, Dependable Plumbing Service shares expert tips for troubleshooting common water heater issues, helping you identify the root cause of the problem and restore hot water to your home.


Water Heater Inspection: Identifying Potential Issues

Before diving into troubleshooting specific problems, it's essential to conduct a thorough inspection of your water heater to identify any visible signs of trouble:



  • Check for Leaks: Inspect the area around the water heater for signs of water leaks, such as puddles or dampness.
  • Listen for Strange Noises: Pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from the water heater, such as banging, popping, or rumbling noises.
  • Assess Water Temperature: Test the water temperature coming from the faucets to determine if it's consistently hot or if it fluctuates.
  • Examine Pilot Light: If you have a gas water heater, check the pilot light to ensure it's lit and burning steadily.


Common Water Heater Problems and Solutions

Once you've completed the initial inspection, use the following troubleshooting tips to address common water heater problems:


No Hot Water

  • Possible Causes: Faulty heating element, tripped circuit breaker, gas supply issues (for gas water heaters).
  • Solution: Check the thermostat settings and reset the circuit breaker if necessary. If you have a gas water heater, ensure the gas supply valve is open and the pilot light is lit. If the issue persists, it may indicate a faulty heating element or other internal problem that requires professional repair.


Insufficient Hot Water

  • Possible Causes: Sediment buildup in the tank, undersized water heater, faulty thermostat.
  • Solution: Drain and flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can impede heating efficiency. If your water heater is undersized for your household's needs, consider upgrading to a larger capacity unit. Check the thermostat settings and adjust as needed to ensure optimal water temperature.


Water Leaks

  • Possible Causes: Loose connections, corroded or damaged tank, pressure relief valve issues.
  • Solution: Tighten loose connections and inspect the tank for signs of corrosion or damage. If you notice water pooling around the base of the water heater, it may indicate a leaky tank that requires replacement. Test the pressure relief valve by lifting the lever and allowing water to flow out. If the valve fails to operate correctly, it may need to be replaced.


Strange Noises

  • Possible Causes: Sediment buildup in the tank, overheating, expanding pipes.
  • Solution: Drain and flush the water heater to remove sediment, which can cause banging or popping noises as it heats up and expands. Lower the thermostat temperature to prevent overheating, and insulate pipes to reduce expansion-related noises.


Water Heater Repair, Installation, and Maintenance

If you're unable to resolve water heater problems on your own, or if you encounter more complex issues, it's time to call in the professionals. Dependable Plumbing Service offers a range of water heater services, including repair, installation, and maintenance, to ensure your system operates efficiently and reliably:


  • Water Heater Repair: Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair a wide range of water heater issues, restoring hot water to your home quickly and efficiently.
  • Water Heater Installation: Whether you're replacing an old unit or installing a new water heater, our team can handle the installation process from start to finish, ensuring proper sizing, placement, and connections.
  • Water Heater Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your water heater and preventing future problems. Dependable Plumbing Service offers comprehensive maintenance plans to keep your system in top condition year-round.


Troubleshooting water heater problems requires a systematic approach and a keen eye for detail. By conducting a thorough inspection, identifying potential issues, and following troubleshooting tips, homeowners can address common water heater problems and restore hot water to their homes. For more complex issues or professional assistance with water heater repair, installation, or maintenance, Dependable Plumbing Service is here to help.

Need help with Water Heater Installation or Repair? Call Dependable Plumbing at (706) 698-5000 to schedule service today!


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A man wearing gloves is working on a pipe with a wrench.
By Dependable Plumbing July 17, 2025
Avoid Costly Repairs with These Preventative Plumbing Tips Plumbing problems are an inevitable part of homeownership, but knowing how to prevent them can save you time, money, and frustration. From clogged drains to leaky pipes , many common plumbing issues can be avoided with proper maintenance and care. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five most frequent residential plumbing problems and provide expert prevention tips to keep your plumbing system in top shape. 1. Clogged Drains Problem: Slow or completely blocked drains are one of the most common household plumbing issues. Hair, soap scum, grease, food debris, and foreign objects can build up over time, causing serious blockages. Prevention Tips: Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris before they go down the drain. Avoid pouring grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the sink. Flush drains regularly with hot water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup. 2. Leaky Faucets Problem: A dripping faucet may seem like a minor issue, but it can waste gallons of water and increase your utility bill over time. Worn-out washers, seals, or corroded components are common culprits. Prevention Tips: Regularly check faucets for leaks and replace worn-out washers promptly. Avoid turning faucets too tightly, as this can cause wear and tear. Schedule periodic plumbing inspections to identify potential problems early. 3. Running Toilets Problem: A constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water daily. Faulty flapper valves, improperly adjusted float mechanisms, or leaks in the fill tube can be the cause. Prevention Tips: Inspect and replace faulty flappers, floats, or fill valves as needed. Avoid using chemical toilet bowl cleaners, as they can damage components over time. If your toilet is outdated, consider upgrading to a more water-efficient model. 4. Low Water Pressure Problem: Weak water pressure can make daily tasks like showering or washing dishes frustrating. It may be caused by sediment buildup in pipes, leaks, or issues with the municipal water supply. Prevention Tips: Regularly clean aerators and showerheads to remove mineral buildup. Check for hidden leaks and repair them promptly. Install a water pressure regulator if needed to maintain a consistent flow. 5. Water Heater Issues Problem: No hot water , inconsistent heating, or strange noises from your water heater can indicate sediment buildup, a malfunctioning thermostat , or a failing heating element. Prevention Tips: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and improve efficiency. Set the thermostat to a safe and efficient temperature (120°F is recommended). Schedule routine inspections to catch issues before they lead to a breakdown. Dependable Plumbing: Your Trusted Residential Plumbing Experts At Dependable Plumbing , we provide top-quality plumbing services to help homeowners prevent and resolve common plumbing issues. Our experienced team offers: Drain Cleaning & Maintenance – Keep your pipes clear and clog-free. Leak Detection & Repair – Prevent water waste and property damage. Water Heater Services – Repair, maintenance, and installation of water heaters. Toilet & Faucet Repair – Fix leaks, replace worn parts, and improve efficiency. Emergency Plumbing Services – Available 24/7 for urgent plumbing needs. Call Dependable Plumbing for Expert Plumbing Solutions! Don’t wait until a minor plumbing issue turns into a costly repair. Dependable Plumbing, Plumbing Services in North Georgia , is here to help with all your residential plumbing needs. Call us today at (706) 698-5000 to schedule a service appointment!
A kitchen with a lot of stainless steel appliances and a sign that says expensible plumbing.
By Dependable Plumbing July 3, 2025
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A man is cleaning a toilet with a hose. Hydro jetting.
By Dependable Plumbing June 17, 2025
Why Hydro Jetting is the Ultimate Solution for Clogged Drains When it comes to keeping your drains clear and free from blockages, hydro jetting is one of the most effective and advanced methods available. Unlike traditional drain cleaning techniques, hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to remove buildup, debris, and even tree roots from pipes. If you’re experiencing persistent clogs or slow drains, it might be time to consider this powerful solution. Dependable Plumbing offers expert hydro jetting services for residential and commercial properties in North Georgia. How Does Hydro Jetting Work? Hydro jetting involves inserting a specialized hose into your plumbing system that blasts highly pressurized water through the pipes. The intense water pressure—ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 PSI—effectively scours away grease, sludge, scale, and other obstructions, restoring full flow capacity to your pipes. Advantages of Hydro Jetting Over Traditional Methods 1. Completely Clears Pipes Unlike snaking or chemical cleaners, which only break through blockages, hydro jetting thoroughly cleans the entire pipe interior, eliminating all buildup and debris. 2. Environmentally Friendly Hydro jetting uses only water—no harsh chemicals—making it a safe and eco-friendly solution for drain cleaning. 3. Prevents Future Clogs Because hydro jetting removes all residue from pipes, it helps prevent future blockages, reducing the need for frequent drain cleanings. 4. Safe for Your Plumbing System When performed by professionals, hydro jetting is a safe and non-invasive method that works on various pipe materials, including PVC, cast iron, and clay. 5. Effective Against Tough Blockages From grease and soap scum to invasive tree roots, hydro jetting is powerful enough to tackle even the most stubborn drain clogs. 6. Ideal for Both Residential and Commercial Properties Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with slow drains or a business requiring routine drain maintenance, hydro jetting provides a reliable, long-term solution for all types of plumbing systems. Dependable Plumbing: Your Hydro Jetting Experts in North Georgia At Dependable Plumbing, we offer professional hydro jetting services to ensure your drains stay clear and functional. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment to handle even the toughest blockages safely and effectively. Our Hydro Jetting Services Include: Residential Drain Cleaning – Eliminate grease, hair, and soap buildup from home plumbing systems. Commercial Drain Maintenance – Keep restaurant, office, and industrial drains free from obstructions. Tree Root Removal – Safely clear invasive roots without damaging pipes. Emergency Hydro Jetting Services – Available 24/7 for urgent drain issues. Call Dependable Plumbing for Expert Hydro Jetting Services! Don’t let stubborn clogs disrupt your home or business. Dependable Plumbing is here to provide fast, effective hydro jetting services across North Georgia. Call us today at (706) 698-5000 to schedule an appointment!
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