Do you ever notice a strange smell coming from your water heater? If so, you’re not alone. Many homeowners report this problem. In most cases, the cause is a sediment build-up in the bottom of the tank. When this happens, it’s necessary to clean the tank to prevent further problems.
This blog post will explain why your water heater might smell and how to fix the problem.
If your water heater is gas-powered, the smell could be due to a natural gas leak
A gas water heater can be a great source of reliable hot water, but it has its unique issues to be aware of. One potential problem is natural gas leakage. If you smell unnatural odors emanating from your water heater, the culprit could very well be a gas leak.
It’s vital to know how to recognize this issue and take action before a potentially hazardous situation arises. Familiarize yourself with the critical aspects of how your gas-powered water heater operates and what to do in case of a gas leak to stay safe and keep your home functioning optimally.
If your water heater is electric, the smell could be due to overheating
The smell coming from your electric water heater could also be due to overheating, which is a sign of an issue with the unit. As a homeowner, you must understand how water heaters work to identify signs indicating when something isn’t functioning correctly so you can take action.
If your water heater is electric and you notice a smell, know that this could indicate an overheating problem. It’s advisable to contact a professional immediately if you come across this issue. Taking action quickly is essential as overheating can cause various issues, such as performance problems, safety hazards, and even damage to the water heater system.
The smell could also be due to bacteria build-up in the tank
If your water heater has been sitting for a while and you notice an unpleasant odor when you turn it on, it could be due to bacteria build-up in the tank. Bacterial growth can occur when water is stored for a long and not circulated regularly, especially if the temperature of the water is warm enough to provide a hospitable environment for their growth.
As these compounds form and increase in number, they can produce an unpleasant smell in your water heater. Understanding how water heaters work can help homeowners identify potential issues before they become larger problems.
To get rid of the smell, try flushing the tank with bleach or vinegar
Getting rid of the smell from a water heater can seem like a difficult challenge, but there are some DIY solutions that you can try to get rid of the stench.
One such solution is flushing your tank with bleach or vinegar; both have properties that help neutralize odors and make your water heater more pleasant to use.
While this is generally a safe solution, it’s important to read up on safety precautions before pouring either substance into the tank and start slowly when adding the solution.
It is just one strategy for homeowners to keep their water heaters functioning optimally without any unpleasant odors.
You can also try using a commercial water heater cleaner
If you want to ensure your water heater works at optimal efficiency levels, consider using a commercial water heater cleaner. It can help deep clean any buildup of sediment that might not be efficiently removed during regular flushes and descaling.
A water heater cleaner, when regularly used, could help ensure better performance and an extended lifespan. It also aids in lowering energy bills as less energy will be needed to make the water heater run more efficiently.
If the problem persists, you may need to call a plumber or replace your water heater
When it comes to water heaters, most issues can be resolved without the need for professional help. However, it’s important to understand when a problem is more substantial and requires the expertise of a plumber or a replacement of your water heater.
If you’ve gone through all the necessary steps, such as checking the thermostat manually and ensuring adequate power supply, but your water heater still isn’t working properly, it is best to seek professional help or replace your unit altogether.
If you notice a foul smell coming from your water heater, it could be due to a gas leak, overheating, or bacteria build-up. To get rid of the smell, try flushing the tank with bleach or vinegar. You can also use a commercial water heater cleaner for this purpose. If the problem persists, you may need to call a plumber or replace your water heater.
About us
If you are looking for a professional agency to help you install or replace your water heater in Florida’s Punta Gorda Region, Henry Plumbing is where you should call. We have been helping the residents of Punta Gorda since the 1970s. Our services include water testing, plumbing, water heater repairs, installation, and more. We also offer emergency plumbing services to our customers. You can contact us at (941) 661-7398 or request an appointment here.