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Water Heater Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Water Heater Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Your water heater works hard to provide hot water to your appliances and taps throughout your home. But sometimes, your water heater has to work even harder to get the job done, often leading to unwanted water heater issues. If you are uncomfortable troubleshooting and want assistance from a local Pittsburgh plumber, call 412-793-3190 for water heater repair, replacement, and installation. Our Restano Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team is ready to resolve your water heater issues 24/7!

The following are common water heater issues if you have an electric, hybrid, power vent, or tankless water heater, and some troubleshooting tips for what to do in each situation. A reminder always to check to make sure the power is off at the circuit breaker before performing any troubleshooting tips on your water heater. Call a local professional if you need assistance.

Water Heater Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Why is my water heater producing cold water? 

A common issue with water heaters is producing cold, warm, or extremely hot water.

One of the most common problems with a water heater is the water temperature. Is your water too cold, too warm, or extremely hot?

  • Why is my water cold? The cause of cold water from your water heater could be caused by a shortage of power, a malfunctioning thermostat, defective heating element, gas control value, thermal couple, low or no gas pressure. First, examine the power source by checking if the circuit breaker is out. Next, ensure the water heater switch is turned on and the pilot is lit. Lastly, make sure the thermostat is receiving power. For more on how to relight your gas water heater check out this video. 
  • My water heater is producing lukewarm water. If you are not getting enough hot water, your tank may be undersized for your home, the cold and hot connections could be crossed, or you may have a broken drip tube. Contact a professional to examine why your water heater produces warm water and does not function properly. The professional will check to see if the tank is adequately sized, correct the connection if they are crossed, and reset the thermostat on the tank. 
  • My water heater is producing extremely hot water! If your water is too hot to use, the thermostat on your tank may beset way too high or is not functioning properly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 120 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended for efficiency and best balance for your water heater. Always check your manual on resetting the temperature and call your Pittsburgh plumbers for assistance. 

Why is my hot water heater leaking?

What is the leading cause of leaky water tanks?

Your water tank can leak due to the process of corrosion, starting on the inside of the tank.


 Is there a water spot near your water heater? Most likely, your water heater is leaking. The following are reasons leading to water heater leak problems. 

  • Incorrect water pressure 
  • A faulty T&P relief valve
  • Malfunctioning gasket
  • Valve is stuck
  • Leaking water tank 
  • Overheating 
  • Loose heating element

If you are unsure where the leak is coming from and are uncomfortable troubleshooting your water heater leak call your nearby plumber for help. 

First, check to see if there are any loose plumbing connections. If you notice a loose connection, tighten the connection, but do not over tighten the connection. Next, check to see if the heating elements are loose. If so, you can tighten it. If the heating element has not stopped leaking, you will most likely need to replace the gasket. We recommend hiring a local plumber to perform the gasket replacement. Finally, check to see if there's a leak on or around the storage tank. If you noticed a leak, your water take is most likely in the early stage of corrosion. 

If your water tank is frequently causing problems leading to water all over your floor, another option is ditching your water tank altogether and going tankless. Switching to a tankless water heater is an excellent option if you are looking for equipment that lasts twice as long and takes up a quarter of the space in your home. For more information about the benefits of a tankless water heater, contact your local Pittsburgh plumbing contractor.

Why is the Water in My Tank Discolored? 

Find out why your water heater is producing discolored water. 

Discolored water can be the leading indicator your water tank needs to be replaced.


If you notice your water is turning a rusty color, this is an indication of corrosion of the interior lining of your tank. The most common cause of discolored rusty water is a failing anode rod. Contact a Pittsburgh plumber to determine if the anode rod can be replaced to resolve the issue or not. If the anode rod cannot be replaced, a professional plumber will help you through the replacement process. If you have any questions about tank size or reoccurring water tank issues from previous tanks, be sure to discuss them with your local plumber to make sure the frequent problems are resolved with your replacement tank.

My Water Heater Is Making Odd Noises 

Continue reading to find out what causes water tanks is the odd noises.

Make the switch to a tankless water heater and save big!


Why is my water heater making strange noises? The most common cause of odd noises coming from your water heater is sediment build-up. Water contains natural minerals that flow into the water tank. When the water is heated up, the minerals sink to the bottom of the tank, causing sediment build-up over time.

To correct this issue, you can try to flush your water heater. Make sure to read your owner's manual first and watch the following video demonstration for tips. If you have been attempting to flush your water tank and the noise continues, you need a professional plumber. Contact us. We are your trusted Pittsburgh water heater replacement plumbers.

Who Installs Water Heaters Near Me?

Call your trusted Pittsburgh plumbing professionals at 800-793-5510! 

The Restano Heating, Cooling & Plumbing Team Serving Pittsburgh Residents Since 1986.


If you are still looking for a “water heater repair plumber near you,” give us a call. At Restano Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, our team can handle any water heater repair or replacement issue. We are experts in water heater installation and replacement for tankless water heaters and tank water heaters—we only use professional equipment that meets our standards. So, give us a call today at 800-793-5510 to repair your water heater. We are your trusted Pittsburgh water heater repair plumbers!