Water heaters are some of the most commonly used appliances in a home, however, they can also be some of the most neglected. One reason for this is that the water heater tends to be installed in out-of-the-way locations and the property owner may not notice a problem until there is no heated water for bathing, cooking or cleaning. The reason that water heaters fail will depend on the type of appliance being used. The most common method for heating water uses a large tank for storage and some method of applying heat. This can be either electrical resistance or burning a fuel such as natural gas. Sadly, a faulty heating system is the main reason that property owners seek out water heaters repairs in Fairfax, VA.
Electric water heaters can fail for several reasons such as a damaged anode or a short in the system. The anode or heating element is inserted into the tank and the most frequently used anodes are made with steel. In fact, they are commonly referred to as a sacrificial anode because the element slowly breaks down as it heats the water. Eventually, the electrode will break and fail to heat at all. Replacing the anode often requires a specific tool because it can be sealed to the tank by hard water deposits or corrosion. Water heaters repair in Fairfax, VA for this type of failure will also require the replacement of the thermostat that controls the anode.
Gas water heaters frequently fail when the ignition device wears out. These appliances can use one of two different methods for lighting the fuel. The first is a standing pilot light, but this system is mostly used on older model appliances. The second is an electronic ignition that sends a spark to the fuel whenever the control system starts the heating cycle. Pilot light systems typically fail because of a faulty temperature sensing switch. This device determines if the flame is hot enough to ignite the fuel. Electric systems may fail from faulty solder or broken electrical circuits. Replacing the damaged components should get things working again. Some water heater failures are the result of leaks. Leaking tanks will usually require replacing the appliance because corrosion makes it impossible to repair any damaged areas. Learn more about water heaters from the professionals at Business Name.
