Rheem Water Heater Troubleshooting

Are you having issues heating water? If so, it may be time to perform some Rheem water heater troubleshooting. Water heaters are arguably one of the most important household appliances that you have in your home. Without them running, you wouldn’t be able to take showers, wash dishes or clothes and do many other day-to-day activities.

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If you’re having trouble with your water heater, this article will go over some helpful troubleshooting tips so that you can determine what’s going on and get your water heating up again in no time.

Issues of the Water heater not heating heating

Is Hot water not available?

you’re experiencing issues with hot water, it’s possible that there’s an issue with your heating element. Check the breaker panel to make sure the power is on to your heater and then replace the heating elements if they are broken or worn. The shutoff valves may also be an issue. Make sure the shutoff valves are fully open before attempting to light the pilot.

Is your water heater leaking?

If your water heater is leaking it may be due to an issue with your drain pan, pressure relief valve, or an issue with the tank itself. A leaky drain pan can cause sewer gasses to enter your home which can lead to health problems for you and any family members who are living with you. If you spot any leaks, call a professional to come and replace the drain pans on your water heater.

A leaking pressure relief valve may also be an issue. The valves are designed to release extra pressure in the tank when it reaches its maximum temperature so that the pressure doesn’t damage the tank itself. This is especially important for your safety. If your pressure relief valve is leaking, call a professional to replace it for you.

Is the water heater making strange noises?

If your water heater is making strange noises, there are two possible causes: sediment and air in the tank. Both of these issues can be fixed relatively easily and inexpensively by yourself without calling a professional out.

Sediment and other debris can cause sounds that resemble a banging or popping noise. Remove the sediment by draining your tank and flushing out the heating elements to dislodge any additional debris. If you’re still hearing strange noises after doing this, call a professional plumber to help solve the issue for you.

Air in the tank can also cause strange noises. If you’ve recently turned the water heater on and it’s making new, strange sounds, this is probably why. Air can get into your tank during shipping but if it isn’t removed before installation, the air will remain trapped in there for a while until enough of it has escaped or been displaced by hot water. Just turn off the heater and wait a few hours until the air has escaped.

Replacing a thermostat:

If you’ve checked the thermostat and determined that it isn’t working, this could be due to a blown fuse or capacitor or an issue with the wiring for your water heater. Replacing these components is relatively simple and much cheaper than calling a professional out so we recommend doing this yourself if you’re comfortable with basic electrical work.

FAQ’s (frequently asked question)

How long does it take to set up a Rheem water heater?

It takes about an hour to set up a Rheem water heater, but it depends on which model you get and what kind of plumbing is already in place. Better Homes and Gardens recommends having someone who has had prior experience installing gas or electric hot water heaters do the installation, if possible.

What causes sediment build-up in water heaters?

Sediment build-up in your water heater can be caused by hard water or corrosion of the heating elements inside. If you have city water, it may even be rust from old pipes in your home. Either way, sediment can damage your system and make it less efficient so make sure you regularly clean out your unit once it reaches about 6 months old.

How often do you need to drain your heater?

You should be draining your water heater at least once a year, but it depends on where you live and the quality of your water. If you have really hard water or if there’s a lot of sediment build-up from your pipes, this could happen as frequently as every 3 months.

Should I turn my hot water heater off during below-freezing temperatures?

If you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time during the winter, make sure to turn your hot water heater off – especially if there’s any chance that the temperature outside will drop below freezing. Having a constantly running water heater during extreme can damage some units due to the extreme temperature changes, so it’s best to just turn them off until you’re ready to use your hot water again.

Is it safe for me to drain my tank?

Draining your tank is relatively harmless as long as you let the unit cool down for several hours first. We recommend calling a professional out if you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself.

How much does an expansion tank cost?

An expansion tank costs between $35 and $100 depending on the size you need and where you happen to be buying one. Expect to pay about twice that amount for installation. You can read more about how they work here.

What are some signs that my heater needs replacement?

Your heater could need replacement if there is any corrosion at the bottom of your unit if it’s leaking water or making strange noises.

Conclusion:

Water heaters are a great option for hotter water when compared to other heating options. Using hot water heaters is extremely economical in the long run, but only if they function at high efficiency and without flaws.

In order to avoid having your heater replaced often, it’s important to keep it drained during the winter months and check all levels on a regular basis. If you have any questions or concerns about your current heater, contact a professional plumber to ensure that things are running smoothly.

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