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Water Heater Problems That Could Happen During Winter

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Every winter, water heater issues are bound to pop up due to the increased demand for hot water and the challenges posed by colder temperatures. Understanding the common winter water heater problems can help you avoid them and take the necessary measures to keep the unit in top shape. Today, Urgent Rooter walks you through some of the water heater issues you may experience during winter and what to do.

  • Insufficient Hot Water

Inadequate heating is one of the most common hot water heater problems during winter. When the temperatures plummet, the water entering the tank is around 25 degrees cooler. This forces the water heater to work much harder to bring the temperature up to the desired level. The increased strain on the system can lead to insufficient hot water, especially during peak usage times, and increase heating bills.

If you’re running out of hot water quickly, try turning up the thermostat, but do not exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This may temporarily solve the problem as you work on a more permanent solution. If you have a conventional storage water heater, consider insulating the tank to prevent heat loss and ensure you have adequate hot water. A professional plumber offering water heater services can help you insulate your water heater and identify potential problems before they escalate.

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  • A Slow Recovery Rate

As the name suggests, recovery rate refers to how quickly a water heater can replenish hot water after it has been used. In other words, it’s the speed at which a water heater can reheat the water in the tank. The cold weather can impact the recovery rate, as the incoming cold water requires more energy and time to heat up to the desired temperature. This problem can become even worse if there’s sediment buildup in the unit.

A thermostat adjustment can improve your water heater’s recovery rate and ensure a consistent supply of hot water during the winter months. Insulating your hot water heater tank can also help retain heat and improve overall recovery time. Consider flushing your water heater tank to remove sediment and mineral buildup.

  • Knocking Noises

Your water heater can produce a low humming sound when it’s heating water, and that shouldn’t worry you at all. However, knocking sounds coming from the unit can indicate loose parts within the heater, sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, or water hammer. If flushing the tank doesn’t resolve the problem, schedule water heater repair service with a professional plumbing contractor.

  • High Heating Bills

As we’ve already mentioned, the cold weather forces your water heater to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This means it will use more energy to heat water. It’s normal for heating bills to slightly go up during winter, but an unexplained spike can be an indication of an underlying problem. Some of the common causes of increased energy bills include a faulty heating element, lack of insulation, sediment buildup, and old age. Contact a licensed plumber to diagnose the problem and fix your water heater.

  • Pilot Light Problems

If you have a gas-powered water heater, you may experience pilot light issues during winter due to drafts or airflow issues. The pilot light is a constantly burning flame that ignites the main burner whenever heat is required to raise the water temperature. It’s advisable to keep the area around your water heater free from drafts. Seal any leaks around windows and doors.

Call Urgent Rooter for Water Heater Repair

Do you have water heater issues in your home? Contact Urgent Rooter for water heater repair. We are your local plumbing experts specializing in water heater repair and replacement. Urgent Rooter is proud to provide reliable water heater services and ensure you have enough hot water all year round.

Mar 11, 2025

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