No one likes to run out of hot water, but it can happen when we least expect it. Knowing what to look for when this happens can help you make repairs on your own, but if you need a fast repair or you'd rather let us do it, just call. We'll quickly come to your home and you'll be back in the shower in no time.
If you have a conventional water heater you can expect it to last about 11 years. Tankless water heaters, that make hot water on demand, generally have a life expectancy of 15 - 20 years. Because routine maintenance is important to extend the life of a water heater, we offer a preventive service that can help your unit work most efficiently and stretch your hard-earned money farther before you have to invest in a new one.
Here's a guide to use for reference, but remember our professional team of Daly City water heater repair specialists are just a phone call away if you need us. We'll help you save time and money. Our expert plumbers can quickly diagnose, recommend and repair the source of the problem with all the needed tools in their fully stocked vehicle.
1. Water runs lukewarm or cold - if water is lukewarm, a 
thermocouple needs replacing, or possibly the gas pilot. If the water is cold, a mixing of the hot and cold water is likely happening in the tank. A dip tube could be the needed part.
If the dip tube replacement does not solve the problem, a cross connection from a faulty plumbing installation error may have taken place. Water heaters are usually on the same water line as other appliances in the home, so a cross connection would be the most likely possibility. To find out if this is the case, shut off the water heater's water supply and open a hot water tap faucet. If any water comes out, there's a cold-water connection crossing the hot water line. Correct the faulty plumbing installation.
2. Rotten-egg smell or water that is rust-colored - when a sacrificial anode rod has excessive erosion build up that overflows, it causes the water tank lining to decay, and it's time to replace the rod. The result of the lining decay is rust-colored water or a rotten-egg smell.
3. Noisy heater? Loud whining? Rumbling or popping noise? - it's time for a flush of the tank. Sediment builds up in water heaters causing noises, leaks and strong smells. This is a messy, time-consuming job. A professional plumber is the best choice for this task. Just call us.
When it's time to replace the water heater, you'll want to see how tankless water heaters save energy and money. Ask our Daly City water heater repair specialists, they'll be glad to show you.