A tank that runs out of hot water early, makes noise or will not light usually has a failed component or heavy sediment, and a plumber can often repair either one. Water leaking from the tank shell itself means the heater needs replacing. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in San Diego.
Symptoms and likely causes
| Symptom | Common cause |
|---|---|
| Popping or rumbling during a heating cycle | Mineral sediment on the bottom of the tank |
| Electric unit gives lukewarm or no hot water | Heating element, thermostat or tripped high-limit reset |
| Gas pilot goes out or burner will not stay on | Thermocouple or flame sensor, dirty burner, draft or venting issue |
| Hot water smells like sulfur | A reaction at the anode rod |
| Water on the floor or in the pan | Drain valve, relief valve, a fitting, or a failed tank |
San Diego water is hard on heaters
The City of San Diego water quality report lists average total hardness of roughly 13.8 to 14.2 grains per gallon for water from its Alvarado, Miramar and Otay plants. When that water is heated, minerals drop out and collect as scale on the tank floor and on electric elements. Scale insulates the water from the burner, makes the heater work harder and shortens element life. Flushing the tank periodically and treating the water with a softener both help.
Checks you can do yourself
- For an electric heater, look for a tripped breaker.
- For a gas heater, confirm the gas supply valve is open and follow the printed label if you relight the pilot.
- Look at the temperature and pressure relief valve. If it is discharging, it is reacting to a problem; never plug it.
Leave gas controls, vent pipes and electrical wiring to a plumber.
Heaters outside and in garages
Many San Diego homes keep the water heater in the garage or in a closet on an outside wall. Near the coast, salt air can corrode exterior cabinets, fittings and gas connectors, so look at outdoor units now and then for rust and weeping joints. Keep the space around a gas heater clear so it can draw combustion air.
Fix it or replace it
Repair makes sense when the tank is sound and the failed part is a valve, element, thermostat or igniter. When the tank is rusting through, the heater is old and needs a costly control, or repairs keep stacking up, replacement is usually the better spend.
What drives the repair cost
- The part that failed and whether it is in stock
- Gas versus electric
- Access in a tight closet, attic or garage platform
- Timing, with evening and weekend calls often priced higher
Ask for the diagnosis and a written price before work starts.
Water Heater Repair questions from San Diego homeowners
Why does my water heater pop and rumble?
Can a leaking water heater be repaired?
What causes a sulfur smell from hot water only?
Is it safe to relight my own pilot light?
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San Diego County
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