Most Dubai apartments and villas use electric tank water heaters. They are simple machines, but hard water and constant use wear them out. These are the signs to watch.
1. No hot water at all. Check the isolator switch and the breaker first. If both are on, the heating element or thermostat has likely failed.
2. Water is only lukewarm. Scale built up on the element, or a thermostat set too low, are the usual causes.
3. Hot water runs out fast. Sediment at the bottom of the tank takes up space and insulates the water from the element. A flush and descale often helps.
4. Rusty or smelly water. Brown water from the hot tap only can mean the anode rod is worn and the tank is starting to corrode.
5. Popping or rumbling sounds. This is water boiling under a layer of scale. It wastes electricity and stresses the tank.
6. Water around the heater. A dripping valve can be replaced. A leaking tank usually means it is time for a new heater. Switch the power off and call a technician.
Repair or replace?
Elements, thermostats, valves and anode rods are cheap to replace. If the tank itself leaks, replacement is the safer choice. GetProFixer repairs and installs water heaters across Dubai from our Al Satwa base. Send us a photo on WhatsApp.