Singapore Plumbing Works

A Guide to Water Heater Repair

Were you looking forward to a nice warm bath after a long day’s work, only to find that the water is just not hot enough? Or in the middle of your shower, you find rust-colored water flowing out of your tap?

In modern day living, water heaters can be found in many households. They are now more a necessity, then a luxury, even in Singapore’s hot tropical climate. We use hot water when taking our baths, washing our hands, washing our greasy dishes, washing our stained or dirty clothes, sterilizing utensils or floors and more.

So imagine having to manually boil or heat up water for our all our hot water needs and you would understand the important role a good functioning water heater plays in our life. So naturally, we would want to repair our faulty water heater as soon as possible, to prevent any inconveniences it may cause.

This guide will provide expert insights and solutions for water heater repair service, addressing common problems and offering practical advice to keep your water heater running smoothly.

Common Issues with Electric Water Heaters and Their Solutions

Water heaters can encounter a variety of issues. These can range from insufficient hot water, discolored or smelly water, to unusual noises coming from the unit. Each of these issues requires a different approach and solution, which a professional water heater repair service can provide.

1. Insufficient Hot Water

This is a common issue where the water heater doesn’t produce enough hot water. It could be due to a faulty thermostat or a malfunctioning heating element. 

Solution: Check the thermostat settings and adjust if necessary. If the problem persists, consult a professional to inspect the heating elements.

2. No Hot Water

If your water heater produces no hot water at all, the heating elements or the thermostat might be defective.  

Solution: An experienced electrician can test these components and replace them if needed.

3. Water Too Hot

If the water is too hot, the thermostat might be set too high.

Solution: Adjust the thermostat to a lower setting. If this doesn’t work, the thermostat may need replacement.

4. Leaking Tank

A leaking tank can be due to a loose drain valve or a high level of pressure inside the tank.  

Solution: Tighten the drain valve. If the leak continues, an expert can check the pressure relief valve and the tank itself. Immediate attention is warranted to prevent water damage and mould growth.

5. Discolored or Smelly Water

This issue often indicates a corroded anode rod in the water heater.

Solution: Replace the anode rod. If the problem persists, flush the tank to remove any sediment.

6. Unusual Noises

Noises like popping, hissing, or banging usually suggest a buildup of sediment in the tank or faulty components. 

Solution: Drain and flush the tank to remove the sediment. If the noise continues, it might be time for a new water heater.

7. Circuit breaker trips

If your circuit breaker trips or you get a blackout whenever you turn on your water heater, the possible reasons include:

1. Overloaded Circuit: The circuit supplying power to the water heater may be overloaded with other electrical appliances or devices.
2. Short Circuit: A short circuit within the water heater’s electrical components or wiring can cause a sudden surge in electrical current, triggering the circuit breaker to trip.
3. Faulty Heating Element: A malfunctioning or damaged heating element in the water heater may cause an electrical fault, leading to a circuit breaker trip.
4. Water Leak: Water leaking into the electrical components of the water heater can create a short circuit and trip the circuit breaker for safety reasons.

Solutions: 

1. Reduce Electrical Load: Avoid using other high-power electrical appliances on the same circuit as the water heater to prevent overloading. Consider redistributing electrical loads across different circuits in your home.
2. Inspect Wiring and Components: Conduct a thorough inspection of the water heater’s wiring and components to identify and repair any signs of damage or wear. Replace any faulty wiring or components as necessary.
3. Check for Water Leaks: Inspect the water heater for any signs of water leaks or moisture accumulation. Repair any leaks promptly and ensure the electrical components are dry and free from water ingress.
4. Professional Assessment: If you’re unable to identify the cause of the circuit breaker trips or if the problem persists after troubleshooting, seek assistance from a qualified electrician. They can perform a comprehensive assessment of the water heater’s electrical system and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements.

Remember, while some issues can be resolved with simple fixes, others require professional attention. Always prioritize safety when dealing with electrical appliances.

If in doubt, don’t hesitate to call the experts at Singapore Plumbing Works for our professional water heater repair service.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your water heater involves a few simple steps that can help prevent common issues:

1. Regular Inspections: 
   • Check your water heater regularly for any signs of leaks, corrosion or other damages.
   • Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems which will involve costly repairs or replacements.
2. Annual Flushing:
   • Sediment and debris can build up over time in your water heater, reducing its efficiency and lifespan.
   • Flushing the tank at least once a year can help remove this sediment and debris, thereby prolonging your water heater’s lifespan.
3. Check the Anode Rod:
   • The anode rod in your water heater helps prevent corrosion of the tank.
   • Inspect it annually and replace it if necessary.
4. Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve Testing: 
   • This valve is a safety feature that releases pressure if it gets too high.
   • Test it once a year to ensure it’s working correctly.
5. Temperature Adjustment:
   • Adjust the thermostat settings on your water heater to ensure optimal water temperature while minimizing energy consumption.
   • Lowering the temperature by a few degrees can lead to significant energy savings.
6. Professional Servicing:
   • Consider having a professional service your water heater every few years to ensure it’s in good working order.

Remember, regular maintenance can extend the life of your water heater and prevent many common issues.

Your Safety Is Paramount – Leave it to the Experts

In 2016, a 15-year-old boy in Singapore was electrocuted while showering in his HDB flat. The improper wiring of a water heater to a three-pin plug was behind the death. In addition, the flat’s circuit breaker was faulty and did not cut off the electrical supply to prevent the tragedy.

From the above incident, it is clear that we should not take electrical safety at home lightly. Our electric water heaters should be properly installed/repaired by experienced technicians. Our faulty circuit breakers or ageing home wiring should be replaced immediately by a professional service provider.

Why Professional Water Heater Repair is Crucial

A malfunctioning water heater can be a significant inconvenience. By understanding common water heater issues, implementing timely repairs, and practicing preventive maintenance, you can ensure reliable hot water supply and prolong the lifespan of your water heater.

While it may be tempting to try and fix your water heater yourself, it’s essential to hire a qualified electrician for the job.

Water heaters involve complex electrical and plumbing components, and improper repairs can lead to:

• Electrical shocks
• Leaks and water damage
• Inefficient performance
• Reduced lifespan

A professional water heater repair service ensures your safety and guarantees a long-lasting solution.

In short, the water heater is quite a dangerous electric appliance to try to repair it yourself if you do not have the expertise or appropriate tools. We highly recommend leaving the job to our expert electrician as he will be able to complete the job speedily, effortlessly and most importantly – safely.

Address your water heater problems promptly, so as to avoid inconvenience and costly repairs down the line. Hesitate no more. Consult our qualified electricians today!