The purpose of a water heater is to fulfill its name—heat water! 

So naturally, cause for concern arose when one tenant noticed that their water heater was doing more than just that, acting rather strange.

We received a call from a client who was puzzled by the mystery of their water heater emitting burnt and acidic odors every time they turned it back on after it had shut itself off randomly for seemingly no apparent reason. 

Professional Plumbing Inspection

California Plumbing experts arrived at the tenant’s location to identify the cause of the unpleasant smell and dysfunction. We removed the cover of the unit to inspect the inside of the water heater, where we discovered corroded coils and standing water around the cables and connections. 

Due to the severity of the damage caused by corrosion, we recommended replacement of the water heater. While water heaters do not always require replacement, some units are beyond repair due to damage, poor (or lack of) maintenance, or simply the end of the unit’s lifespan. Water heater issues like sediment buildup may be resolved or prevented by hiring a professional plumber for regular maintenance and flushing, however a leaking water heater requires replacement. Click here to learn about Water Heater Replacement Vs Repair.

Water Heater and Drip Pan Replacement

It is important to note that if you discover signs of water heater deterioration, such as leaks, smells, shut-offs, or standing water, you should call a professional plumber immediately. Corrosion can give rise to water damage and may endanger the health and safety of you and your loved ones or other occupants. Untreated corrosion will always exacerbate the issue. Furthermore, always consult with a licensed and equipped professional to first inspect the problem before attempting to diagnose and troubleshoot yourself. 

The smell as well as the malfunctioning of the water heater was caused by corrosion in the metal drip pan, which needed to be replaced with a plastic drip pan. A drip pan serves to catch leaks from corrosion, wear and tear, or sediment buildup, preventing structural damage, mold growth, and injuries. A drip pan may also be referred to as a safety pan, referenced in building plumbing code requirements.