Common Water Heater Problems
Any home or business owner should be familiar with the signs that your water heater needs to be repaired. Keep a sharp lookout for these common problems, and don’t hesitate to call Roto-Rooter for assistance:
Inadequate Hot Water
When your Philadelphia residence or business seems to never have enough hot water, it's a hint that your water heater might not be keeping pace with your needs, or it is undersized to meet demand. Consider a switch to a larger or more energy-efficient model that can help provide the hot water capacity you need. Note, however, that if the problem started recently, factors like a malfunctioning thermostat or heating elements could be in play, and a simple repair may be all that is needed.
Water Leaks
Leaks from your water heater can stem from a range of causes, including natural wear on your plumbing or connectors beginning to weaken. If you discover the leak is originating directly from the tank, it’s time for a complete water heater replacement. Whether your leaks are from your connecting pipes, your tank, or somewhere else, professional repair service is crucial for resolving the problem.
Strange Noises and Vibrations
If you hear strange knocking or rumbling sounds emanating from your water heater, it's often a sign that sediment has accumulated inside the tank. These noises occur as the heating element activates and stirs up the sediment. Clearing your tank of sediment typically involves attaching a hose to the water heater to drain it and clear out the buildup. There are several additional steps needed to ensure your safety and prevent damage to your water heater, so be sure you understand the process before draining the tank on your own. Many homeowners leave this chore to an experienced plumber.
Fluctuating Water Temperatures
When your water heater is functioning well, you can expect a consistent flow of hot water. So, if an unexpectedly cold shower hits you or the water turns scalding without warning, it could mean that unseen leaks or a malfunctioning thermostat are affecting your hot water. If you’re facing fluctuating water temperatures, calling in a professional plumber is the number one way to get your hot water back more quickly.
Faulty Gas Pilot Light
Is your Philadelphia home or business’s gas water heater leaving you in the cold instead of providing hot water? It’s possible that the pilot light isn’t lighting the gas correctly. A seasoned plumber should check key parts such as the pilot light assembly, thermocouple, and sensors to pinpoint the problem. Addressing these concerns promptly is crucial since they can cause major headaches down the road.
Water Heater Lifespan
Water heaters typically have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years, but with diligent care and routine maintenance, their operational life can extend well beyond that. Prompt attention to mechanical issues is one of the biggest factors that determines your water heater’s lifespan, and working with a reliable Philadelphia plumber is the most effective way to make it happen.
Roto-Rooter’s Water Heater Repair Services in Philadelphia
Roto-Rooter’s team of experienced Philadelphia plumbers is here to tackle all of your water heater challenges, including:
Water Heater Replacement
Need help with your water heater installation needs? Roto-Rooter handles installation jobs for both traditional and tankless water heaters in Philadelphia. Our experts can handle a complete water heater installation from start to finish, and we’ll help advise you on the ideal water heater for your home or business if you’re not sure which to choose.
Water Heater Maintenance
Maintaining your water heater is key to extending its life, and our team is ready to assist. The Roto-Rooter team will help you create a maintenance schedule that aligns with your system's specific needs and adheres to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Contact Roto-Rooter of Philadelphia for reliable maintenance and a plan that ensures your water heater stays in it for the long haul.
Commercial Water Heater Repair
Roto-Rooter is your most dependable resource for commercial water heater services. Our expert team has the skills to take on any commercial water heater job, from regular maintenance to complete replacements and installations. Plus, we offer 24/7 emergency repairs to ensure your business always has professional plumbing assistance when every minute counts.
Instant Hot Water Dispenser Repair
Instant hot water dispensers are crucial amenities for many businesses, especially service institutions like restaurants. You need a trustworthy plumber who’s ready to service your hot water dispensers 24/7 — which is where Roto-Rooter of Philadelphia comes in. Our team is always prepared to help with the tools and expertise to get your hot water dispensers back to work.

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Tips for Water Heater Maintenance
We’re always ready to help when your water heater breaks down — but by following a few simple steps, you can help minimize its breakdowns in the first place.
Conduct Regular Inspections
Make it part of your routine to inspect your water heater for leaks, unusual noises, inconsistent temperature settings, or other signs of trouble. When you identify these problems early, they’re much easier to solve and prevent them from turning into bigger issues later.
Flush the Tank Once a Year
Although Philly’s water isn’t as infamously hard as some other places, minerals can still accumulate inside your hot water heater in Philadelphia. That means an annual flush is important for conventional tank-based water heaters. Although you can drain the tank yourself using a hose, employing the professionals at Roto-Rooter of Philadelphia can significantly reduce the time and effort required, as well as the potential for making a mess.
Insulate Your Water Heater
During Philadelphia’s cold winters, water heaters often have to work overtime, which can reduce their efficiency. Adding an insulation blanket to your older water heater and ensuring it's located in a well-insulated space, such as a finished basement or insulated garage, can provide a boost to its performance in these harsh conditions. Roto-Rooter’s professional Philadelphia plumbers are ready to assist with selecting the right insulation solutions and optimal placement for your water heater. In 2015, federal mandates required water heater manufacturers to add extra insulation to new water heaters, meaning they’re more efficient than older models and shouldn’t require an extra insulation blanket.
Pay Attention to the Anode Rod
The anode rod in your water heater is vital for staving off corrosion. It safeguards the tank by attracting corrosion to itself, which is why it’s also known as the “sacrifice rod.” Check your anode rod regularly — if it’s diminished to half its original size or less, it's important to replace it to keep your water heater rust-free. This simple maintenance step can significantly extend the life of your unit.
Lower Your Water Temperature
Water heaters are often set at temperatures that exceed what most homes or businesses require. For many people, adjusting the temperature down to about 120ºF is a wise choice that not only reduces energy expenses but also eases the burden on your heater and decreases the likelihood of scalding from overly hot water. This simple tweak can lead to significant savings and a safer environment.
Test the Pressure Relief Valve
Your water heater’s pressure relief valve helps prevent dangerous pressure from building up inside it, and it needs regular testing to ensure it’s still functioning. You can do this yourself, and it only takes a few minutes — watch our video to see how. If you notice any malfunctions in your pressure relief valve, it’s time for a call to the pros at Roto-Rooter.
Schedule Regular Professional Inspections
While it's beneficial to keep an eye on your water heater yourself, there’s no substitute for a professional assessment every year or two. The skilled plumbers at Roto-Rooter of Philadelphia are here to deal with everything from regular maintenance to emergency repairs, with extensive experience and advanced tools that we use to swiftly identify and fix your plumbing problems.


