Does your home feature an electric water heater? Are you unsure? If your home has gas, it is likely the tank water heater is operated by gas. But, if your home is all-electric, there is no question that you have an electric water heater. Though this could be a tank or tankless unit, you certainly have electricity nonetheless.

Electric water heaters aren't without their problems. In fact, homeowners can experience a wide range of issues. That being said, water heaters are a simple appliance. It doesn't have that many parts and can be simple to troubleshoot. This is especially true if you have the help of an experienced plumber. Let's take a look at some of the common issues you'll find with an electric water heater.

Heating Elements

An electric water heater features two heating elements. One at the top and one at the bottom of the tank. These act as the sole heating element to maintain temperatures throughout the day. One heating element will heat the water as it enters the tank, and the top will heat as needed. Heating elements can have a variety of issues including being damaged, going out, electrical problems, or being clogged with a calcium buildup.

Thermostats

The thermostat is what tells the heating element to kick on and off. If the thermostat isn't working your water will not heat the way it needs to. Signs of a faulty thermostat include inconsistent temperatures or loss of hot water altogether. Thermostat replacement is relatively straightforward and inexpensive. It's one of the most affordable repairs a plumber can do. You can also choose an energy-saving thermostat for greater savings throughout the year. Tank water heaters often cost more to operate versus tankless.

Tank Buildup

If your home features hot water, having mineral buildup in your tank is a possibility. This can cause low water pressure, inconsistent heating, or no hot water at all. You are having a buildup within your tank that simply requires cleaning and flush of the tank itself. The average cost for flushing a tank unit is $200. This will include a cleanout and flush.

Leaking Tank

Perhaps the most expensive Water Heater Repair Cost belongs to a leaking tank. This can occur at various points in the water heater, including couplings, fittings, the tank itself, and more. Fixing a leaking tank depending on the location can be costly for replacement. Most leaks can be quickly fixed and cost less than you might think.