The water heater is the one plumbing component that people tend to forget about the most. However, it is used a lot more than people realize, especially in large households. Water heaters are often installed in out-of-the-way locations such as attics or garages, and this can cause problems when something goes wrong. For instance, a leak in the tank or supply lines can dump a lot of water in a very short time. The problem gets even worse if the leak is not noticed and the water supply does not get turned off right away. Thankfully, expert water heaters repair in Alexandria, VA can fix just about any problems that a water heater can develop.
There are several types of water heaters, but the most common are the tank based models. These units come in various sizes from twenty-gallon capacity and up. The typical home uses a forty gallon model, which provides a reasonable supply of hot water and a short heating time. Tank based water heaters come in two types. One uses propane or natural gas for heating the water while the other uses electrical resistance. Propane systems are very reliable because they now use electronic devices for starting the flame and metering the fuel. Piezoelectric ignition systems reduce the chance of failure from a faulty pilot light.
The most common reason for electric water heaters repair in Alexandria, VA is a failed or shorted heating element. Most units have two elements inserted into the tank. Extended use and hard water deposits can cause these electrodes to fail. It is possible for a skilled homeowner to change these devices, but it can turn into a very messy job. Along with the electrodes that do the heating, there is a matching thermostat to control them. Improperly wiring these devices can cause unexpected failure, so some care is required. One problem that electric water heaters can develop is a shorted element. This failure actually results in the heating element creating a continuous low voltage supply that keeps heating the water. Manufacturers prepare for this problem by installing a temperature sensitive switch that kills the power completely once a certain temperature is reached. Learn more about water heater repairs from the experts at All Plumbing.
