Common Water Heater Problems Explained

A water heater is one of those home appliances you don’t really notice—until something goes wrong. When it fails, you’re left with cold showers, leaks, or even unexpected repair bills. By understanding how water heaters work and the problems they commonly face, you can spot issues early, maintain your system better, and know when it’s time to call in a professional like Orlando Plumbing and Drains for help.

Top 10 Water Heater Problems

How Water Heaters Work

Most households use either a traditional tank water heater or a tankless water heater.

• Tank models heat and store a large amount of water (usually 30–80 gallons), keeping it ready for use. They’re common and affordable but use more energy to keep water hot 24/7.
  
  

• Tankless models heat water on demand. They save energy and space but rely on strong water flow and require regular maintenance to stay efficient.
  
  

On average, both types last 8–12 years, though water quality, usage, and upkeep can shorten—or extend—that lifespan. Local plumbers like Orlando Plumbing and Drains can help homeowners decide whether a repair or replacement makes more sense for their system.

1. No Hot Water

Nothing is more frustrating than stepping into a cold shower. Common causes include:

• Electric heaters – a tripped circuit breaker, blown fuse, or failed heating element.
  
  

• Gas heaters – a blown-out pilot light, faulty thermocouple, or gas supply issue.
  
  

👉 Quick Fix: Check the breaker, reset the heater, or relight the pilot. If that doesn’t solve it, it’s usually time to call in a licensed plumber. Orlando Plumbing and Drains can quickly diagnose whether the problem is a simple part replacement or a deeper system issue.

2. Water Isn’t Hot Enough

Lukewarm water often comes from:

• Low thermostat settings – safe, efficient heating is around 120°F.
  
  

• Sediment buildup – minerals coat the heating element, reducing efficiency.
  
  

• Overuse – tankless heaters may struggle if multiple showers and appliances run at once.
  
  

3. Strange Noises

Popping, banging, or rumbling usually means sediment has hardened inside the tank. This not only creates noise but also reduces efficiency and can shorten the heater’s life.

👉 Solution: A professional flush from Orlando Plumbing and Drains can restore quiet operation and extend the unit’s lifespan.

4. Leaks or Pools of Water

Even a small drip can turn into a major headache. Causes include:

• A failing pressure relief valve.
  
  

• Loose connections or fittings.
  
  

• Corrosion inside the tank, often a sign the system is at the end of its life.
  
  

👉 Warning: If the tank itself is leaking, replacement is the only solution. Orlando Plumbing and Drains can install a new, energy-efficient system tailored to your home’s needs.

5. Rusty or Discolored Water

When your hot water looks rusty, brown, or tinted, it’s often a sign of corrosion inside your water heater, most commonly from a worn-out anode rod—the sacrificial part designed to attract minerals and protect the tank from rusting; once it’s used up, the tank itself starts corroding. Sediment buildup and aging tanks can also discolor water, and in some cases, the issue may be old galvanized pipes rather than the heater itself. Rusty water isn’t just unattractive—it can stain laundry, damage fixtures, and signal that your heater may be nearing the end of its life. Replacing the anode rod every 3–5 years can extend a heater’s lifespan significantly, but if the discoloration persists, it’s best to call a professional like Orlando Plumbing and Drains to inspect your system, replace the rod if possible, or recommend a new water heater before a major failure occurs.

The Bottom Line

Water heaters are essential but not invincible. With proper maintenance—flushing the tank, checking the anode rod, and keeping thermostat settings safe—you can avoid most problems. But when issues do arise, having a trusted professional matters.

Orlando Plumbing and Drains has the experience to handle everything from quick repairs to full replacements. Whether your water heater is making strange noises, leaking, or simply not keeping up, their team can get you back to hot water quickly and affordably.

👉 Need water heater service in Orlando? Contact Orlando Plumbing and Drains today for expert repairs, maintenance, or installation you can trust.