Water Heater Troubleshooting

Water Heater Safety Tips

Before attempting to troubleshoot a water heater yourself, there are a few key facts that you should be aware of. By understanding these precautions, you can ensure that you approach the troubleshooting process safely and effectively.

1. Safety First: It is crucial to prioritize safety when dealing with a water heater. Before starting any troubleshooting procedures, make sure to turn off the power supply to the water heater. This can typically be done by switching off the circuit breaker or shutting off the gas supply valve. By doing this, you can avoid any potential electrical shocks or gas leaks.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Manual: Every water heater comes with a manufacturer's manual that provides detailed information about its operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Before attempting to troubleshoot the water heater, take the time to read and understand the manual. This will give you a better understanding of how the water heater works and what specific issues you should be looking out for.

3. Identify the Type of Water Heater: There are different types of water heaters available, including tankless, electric, and gas-powered models. Each type has its own set of troubleshooting procedures and potential issues. Before starting the troubleshooting process, determine the type of water heater you have and familiarize yourself with its specific characteristics and components.

4. Assess the Age and Condition: The age and overall condition of your water heater can significantly impact its performance and potential problems. If your water heater is relatively old or has been experiencing recurring issues, it may be time to consider replacing it rather than attempting to troubleshoot it. Older water heaters are more prone to breakdowns, and the cost of repairs may outweigh the benefits of fixing them.

Water Heater Not Heating

If your restaurant water heater isn't heating up, it can be a major inconvenience and disrupt your daily operations. For warewashing procedures, water must meet minimum temperatures to effectively sanitize dishes in a three-compartment sink or dishwasher. Before you panic and call a technician, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to potentially resolve the issue:

• Check the power source: The first step in troubleshooting a water heater that isn't heating up is to ensure that it is receiving power. Make sure that the power switch or breaker for the water heater is turned on. If it is off, turn it on and wait for the unit to start heating.
• Verify the thermostat settings: The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in your water heater. If the water isn't heating up, check the thermostat settings to ensure they are correctly set. Most water heaters have a temperature dial that allows you to adjust the temperature. Ensure that it is set to the desired temperature and wait for the water to heat up.
• Inspect the heating elements: Electric water heaters have heating elements that are responsible for heating the water. If the water isn't heating up, one or both of the heating elements may be faulty. To inspect the heating elements, turn off the power to the water heater and remove the access panel. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the heating elements. If they are defective, they will need to be replaced.

Water Heater Is Leaking

Important: If you have an electric water heater and you notice water leaking around it, this could pose a risk of electric shock. Immediately turn off the power supply to the water heater before examining the leak. This can usually be done by flipping the corresponding circuit breaker in your electrical panel. By cutting off the electricity, you eliminate the risk of electric shock while assessing and addressing the issue.

With the power turned off, you can safely troubleshoot the leak by following these steps:

• Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (TPR Valve): The TPR valve is a safety device designed to release excess pressure or temperature from the water heater. If it's leaking, it could be a sign that the valve is faulty or there is excessive pressure in the tank. Start by inspecting the discharge pipe connected to the valve for any signs of leakage. If you notice a steady drip or a continuous flow of water, the TPR valve probably needs to be replaced.
• Examine the Drain Valve: The drain valve is located at the bottom of the water heater and is used to flush out sediment buildup. If it's leaking, it could indicate a loose or faulty valve. To check, attach a hose to the drain valve and direct it into a bucket. Slowly open the valve and observe if water is leaking. If it is, tightening the valve may solve the issue. However, if the valve is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
• Inspect the Tank and Connections: Leaks can also occur due to loose or damaged connections between the water heater and the water supply pipes. Carefully examine the pipes and fittings connected to the tank for any signs of moisture or water seepage. If you find any loose connections, tighten them using a wrench. If the pipes or fittings are damaged, they should be replaced.
• Check the Tank for Leaks: Inspect the tank itself for any visible signs of leakage, such as puddles or dampness around the base. If you notice any leaks, it may indicate a crack or hole in the tank. Unfortunately, this is a more serious issue that will require professional intervention. In such cases, it's best to turn off the power supply to the water heater and contact a licensed plumber to assess the situation.

Water Is Too Hot

If your water heater is making water too hot, it can be a cause for concern as it can lead to potential safety hazards and discomfort for employees and customers when washing their hands. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to address this issue.

• Check the thermostat settings: The first step is to ensure that the thermostat on your water heater is set at an appropriate temperature. Most water heaters have a dial or a digital display that allows you to adjust the temperature. The recommended temperature setting is usually around 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) to prevent scalding and save energy. If the thermostat is set too high, adjust it to a lower temperature and observe if the issue persists.
• Inspect the temperature and pressure relief valve (TPR valve): The TPR valve is an essential safety feature that releases excess pressure or temperature from the water heater. If it is faulty or malfunctioning, it can cause the water to become excessively hot. Check the TPR valve for any signs of leakage, corrosion, or damage. If you notice any issues, it is crucial to replace the valve immediately to prevent potential accidents.
• Test the thermostat and heating elements: Faulty thermostats or heating elements can also cause the water heater to produce water that is too hot. Use a multimeter to test the thermostats and heating elements for continuity. If either of them is not functioning correctly, they may need to be replaced to restore proper temperature control.
• Consider the ambient temperature: The temperature of the surrounding environment can also impact the water heater's performance. If the water heater is installed in an area with high ambient temperatures, it may struggle to maintain the desired temperature. Ensure that the water heater is located in a well-ventilated area and away from any heat sources.

Not Enough Hot Water

If your water heater isn't producing enough hot water, there are a few troubleshooting tips you can try before calling a professional. By following these steps, you may be able to identify and resolve the issue on your own, saving you time and money.

• Undersized water heater: First, consider whether your water heater is the right size for your demands. A water heater that is too small for your establishment's needs may struggle to keep up with the demand for hot water, resulting in inadequate performance. If this is the case, you may need to upgrade to a larger-capacity water heater to meet your needs.
• Check the thermostat setting: It's possible that the thermostat may have been accidentally adjusted, leading to insufficient hot water production. Ensure that the thermostat is set to the appropriate temperature for your establishment's needs. The recommended setting is typically around 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48 degrees Celsius).
• Faulty heating element: Over time, the heating element may become worn out or damaged, leading to reduced hot water production. To inspect the heating element, turn off the power to the water heater and remove the access panel. Check for any signs of damage, such as corrosion or visible cracks. If you notice any issues, it's best to replace the heating element with a new one to restore proper functionality.
• Flush the tank: Lastly, consider flushing your water heater to remove any sediment or mineral buildup. Over time, these deposits can accumulate and affect the performance of your water heater, resulting in reduced hot water production. To flush the water heater, turn off the power and water supply, attach a hose to the drain valve, and direct the water into a suitable drain or bucket. Open the drain valve and allow the water to flow until it runs clear. This process helps remove any buildup and improves the efficiency of your water heater.

Water Has a Bad Odor

If you notice that the water coming from your commercial water heater has a bad odor, there are a few troubleshooting tips you can try before calling a repairman. Here are some facts to keep in mind:

• Determine the type of odor: Different types of odors can indicate different issues with your water heater. For example, a rotten egg smell can be a sign of bacteria growth in the tank, while a metallic or sulfuric odor can indicate a chemical reaction occurring within the unit.
• Check the water filter: Over time, sediment and other impurities can build up in the water filter, leading to a foul smell in the water. Depending on the type of water filter you have, you may need to unscrew it or release a latch to remove it. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific water filter model. Once the water filter is removed, visually inspect it for any debris or sediment. If you notice a significant amount of buildup, the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.
• Flush the tank: In many cases, a bad odor can be resolved by flushing the water heater tank. Sediment and mineral buildup can contribute to unpleasant smells. To do this, turn off the power supply to the water heater and shut off the cold water supply. Attach a hose to the drain valve and direct it to a safe drainage area. Open the drain valve and allow the tank to empty completely. Once empty, close the drain valve and turn on the cold water supply to fill the tank again. Repeat this process a few times to help remove any accumulated sediment.
• Inspect the water supply: Sometimes, the source of the odor may not be the water heater itself but rather the water supply. Test the water from other faucets in your establishment to see if the odor persists. If it does, you may need to contact your local water utility to investigate any potential issues with the water supply.

Remember, if these troubleshooting tips do not resolve the issue or if you are unsure about performing any of the steps, it is best to contact a professional repairman. They have the expertise to diagnose and fix more complex problems with your commercial water heater.