Common Water Heater Problems
It pays to know the signs of common water heater problems so you can spot them and call in a professional before the issue gets worse. Keep an eye out for these tell-tale signs that your water heater needs repair:
Inadequate Hot Water
When your Cleveland home or business struggles with a constant lack of hot water, it may signal that your water heater isn't up to the task. Think about upgrading to a bigger or more energy-efficient model to meet your hot water demands more effectively. Keep in mind that if this issue appears suddenly, it could also be due to a faulty thermostat or malfunctioning heating element.
Water Leaks
Notice leaking or dripping from your water heater? The causes can come down to various factors, such as the natural deterioration of your plumbing or weakening connectors. Unfortunately, if the leak is coming directly from the tank, this typically indicates that you’ll need to fully replace the water heater. Regardless of whether the leaks are emanating from the pipes, the tank, or another component, securing professional repair services is the most important step you can take to resolve the issue quickly.
Strange Noises and Vibrations
Unusual knocking or rumbling sounds from your water heater are usually signs that sediment has built up inside the tank. The noise typically starts when the heating element activates, causing the sediment deposits to loosen and bounce around the tank. To clean out the tank, you generally need to attach a hose to the water heater and drain it, flushing out the tank and helping to eliminate the buildup. Electric models must be turned off at the breaker during this process or the heating elements can burn out. Gas models require their own safety protocols before tank draining begins, so if you’re unsure of the process, it may be wise to hire an experienced plumber to handle this task during a tune-up.
Fluctuating Water Temperatures
A properly functioning water heater should provide a steady stream of hot water. If you're startled by a blast of cold water during your shower or if the temperature abruptly becomes too hot, this could point to problems such as leaks or a defective thermostat affecting your system. Are you encountering these fluctuations in water temperature? The most effective response is to contact a professional plumber for a swift and accurate fix.
Faulty Gas Pilot Light
Are you finding that your gas water heater isn't heating water effectively, leaving you shivering instead of comfortably warm? This could be due to the pilot light failing to ignite or stay lit. A skilled plumber can examine components like the pilot light assembly, thermocouple, and sensors to diagnose the issue and help you avoid further problems in the future.
Water Heater Lifespan
Typically, you can expect 8 to 12 years of service from your water heater — but with consistent maintenance, most models can last significantly longer. Swiftly dealing with repairs and mechanical concerns is the most important factor for extending your water heater’s effective service life, and Roto-Rooter of Cleveland is here to help your water heater perform at its best for years to come.
Roto-Rooter’s Water Heater Repair Services in Cleveland
When you need fast water heater repair and installation in Cleveland, it’s Roto-Rooter to the rescue. Check out our complete range of services, including:
Water Heater Replacement
Do you need professional help replacing and installing a water heater? Roto-Rooter provides comprehensive Cleveland water heater installation for both tankless and traditional models. From the initial setup to the final details, our skilled technicians cover all aspects of the installation. Additionally, if you're unsure about which water heater suits your needs, we offer expert advice to guide your decision.
Water Heater Maintenance
Regular maintenance is critical for maximizing your water heater’s lifespan, and Roto-Rooter of Cleveland is here to give you a hand. We'll work with you to develop a maintenance schedule tailored to your water heater’s requirements and compliance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. Reach out to Roto-Rooter for dependable maintenance services that will keep your water heater in great shape.
Commercial Water Heater Repair
Roto-Rooter is Cleveland’s go-to for commercial water heater services. Our skilled commercial plumbers are equipped to handle any task, from routine maintenance to full installations and replacements. Plus, we provide 24/7 emergency repairs to make sure that you’ve always got a professional on call when it matters most.
Instant Hot Water Dispenser Repair
Instant hot water dispensers are essential for numerous businesses, particularly in the hospitality industry. If your guests can’t get hot water, they’re not happy — which is why it’s so critical to have a reliable commercial plumber who can service hot water dispensers 24/7.

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Tips for Water Heater Maintenance
It's easier to keep your water heater in tip-top shape when you stay on top of regular maintenance tasks. These are some key items for your water heater maintenance checklist:
Conduct Regular Inspections
Get in the habit of inspecting your water heater regularly. This will help you spot leaks, hear any strange noises, notice inconsistent temperatures, or observe other potential problems that should be addressed sooner rather than later.
Flush the Tank Once a Year
While Cleveland's water might not be known for extreme hardness, mineral buildup in your hot water heater can still occur. It's wise to schedule an annual flush for traditional tank-based water heaters. Although it’s possible to drain the tank yourself using a hose, hiring Roto-Rooter’s professional plumbers can help you minimize the effort and time involved, as well as reduce the risk of any mess. A Roto-Rooter plumber can complete the task as part of an overall water heater tune-up.
Insulate Your Water Heater
Water heaters often have to work overtime in Cleveland’s frigid Great Lakes winters, reducing their efficiency and creating additional wear and tear. To enhance your water heater’s performance in cold conditions, try applying a special insulation blanket, and make sure it’s positioned in a well-insulated area like a finished basement or an insulated garage. Roto-Rooter's skilled plumbers are available to help you choose the best water heater insulation solutions and find the most convenient and efficient place for your unit.
Pay Attention to the Anode Rod
The anode rod in your water heater plays a crucial role in preventing corrosion by attracting rust to itself, earning it the nickname "sacrifice rod." Regular inspections of the anode rod are essential; if it has worn down to half its original size or less, it should be replaced to protect your water heater from rust. This straightforward maintenance task has major benefits for prolonging your water heater’s lifespan.
Lower Your Water Temperature
It’s surprisingly common for water heaters to run hotter than they need to. In many cases, you can adjust the temperature as low as 120ºF while still getting water that’s plenty hot for the average household or business. This simple step can cut energy costs, place less strain on your water heater, and reduce the risk of scalding from excessively hot water.
Test the Pressure Release Valve
The pressure relief valve on your water heater is crucial for preventing unsafe pressure buildup, and it's important to test it regularly to ensure it's working properly. You can easily perform this test yourself in just a few minutes — check out our instructional video for guidance. If you find any issues with the valve, get in touch with Roto-Rooter right away for expert water heater repair in Cleveland.
Schedule Regular Professional Inspections
Although monitoring your water heater is helpful, nothing compares to a professional evaluation. The experienced plumbers at Roto-Rooter are equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to urgent repairs. With our extensive expertise and advanced tools, we can quickly diagnose and resolve your most urgent plumbing issues.


