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Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Problems

A water heater is such an important appliance in any household. From refreshing morning showers to the squeaky clean dishes after dinner, it quietly ensures our comfort and cleanliness. However, even the most reliable water heaters can encounter problems over time, such as hot water heaters with low pressure. Understanding these common issues and learning how to troubleshoot them can save homeowners both time and money, ensuring a smooth flow of hot water for their daily needs. Read on for a guide to navigating through common water heater problems!

Lack of Hot Water:

  • Thermostat Settings: Start by checking the thermostat setting on your water heater. It should typically be set around 120°F. Adjust it if necessary.
  • Insulate Pipes: Insulating hot water pipes can help maintain consistent temperatures and reduce heat loss during transit.
  • Faulty Heating Element: For electric water heaters, a malfunctioning heating element could be the culprit. Use a multimeter to test for continuity and replace the element if needed. Furthermore, no or low water pressure could be due to sediment build-up. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help restore proper water pressure and ensure a consistent supply of hot water throughout your home.

Strange Noises:

  • Popping or Rumbling: Popping or rumbling sounds may indicate the presence of air bubbles trapped beneath sediment. Flushing the tank can alleviate this problem.
  • Screeching or Whistling: These noises could signal a leak in the tank, causing water to come into contact with the heating element. Professional assistance may be required for repair or replacement.

Water Leaks:

  • Inspect Fittings: Check all fittings and connections for signs of moisture or corrosion. Tighten loose connections or replace damaged fittings as needed. Additionally, if you’re experiencing low water pressure from the water heater, inspecting fittings becomes even more crucial. 
  • Pressure Relief Valve: A faulty pressure relief valve can cause leaks. Test the valve regularly and replace it if necessary to prevent leaks.

Water Discoloration or Odor:

  • Anode Rod Corrosion: Corrosion of the sacrificial anode rod can lead to brown water from the water heater and unpleasant odors. Regular inspection and replacement of the anode rod can prevent this problem.

Low Hot Water Pressure:

  • Build-Up: Accumulation of build-up in the pipes can lead to the water heater restricting flow and can cause low water pressure. 
  • Partially Closed Valve: Ensure the shut-off valve leading to the water heater is fully open. A partially closed valve can restrict water flow, resulting in low pressure.


In conclusion, while water heaters are indispensable in modern households, they are not immune to problems. By familiarizing yourself with these common issues and their troubleshooting methods, homeowners can effectively maintain their water heaters and extend their lifespan. However, for complex issues or safety concerns, it’s always best to seek professional assistance from qualified plumbers. With proactive maintenance and timely repairs, homeowners can ensure a steady supply of hot water for their daily needs, keeping their households running smoothly.

At Flohawks, our team of experienced plumbers is dedicated to providing prompt and reliable service to address all your water heater concerns. Whether you’re dealing with dirty water from hot water heater, strange noises, water leaks, or any other issue affecting your hot water tank’s performance, we can take care of it for you! Don’t let water heater problems disrupt your daily routine—call Flohawks!

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Isaiah Taylor

Service Advisor

Tacoma native Isaiah Taylor has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor, he focuses on building strong relationships with customers and making sure they feel confident in the solutions being provided.

Isaiah believes the company’s culture sets FloHawks apart. He appreciates working alongside people who genuinely care about customers and take pride in doing the job right.

At 26, Isaiah is focused on building his career and continuing to grow in the industry. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him in the gym lifting weights and staying active.

Kevin Elbert

Service Advisor

Born in Olympia and now living in Lacey, Kevin Elbert has spent 11 years serving customers with FloHawks. As a Service Advisor, he is focused on helping homeowners and businesses find solutions when plumbing or septic issues arise.

Kevin’s favorite part of the job is working with customers who need help and finding a path forward that solves the problem. He values being part of a team that takes pride in delivering dependable service when it matters most.

In his free time, Kevin enjoys staying active outdoors. Hiking, camping, fishing, photography, soccer, and travel are some of his favorite ways to spend time when he’s not at work. At home, he stays busy with his four teenagers.

Stephen Redford

Service Advisor

Stephen Redford was born in Tacoma and now lives in Gig Harbor. With 14 years at FloHawks, he’s built a reputation as both a trusted Service Advisor and a key contributor to the company’s growth and outreach.

Stephen plays a role in business development, trade shows, and marketing while also supporting service operations across multiple areas. He appreciates FloHawks’ unique culture and commitment to customer service, believing the team consistently goes above and beyond what most companies offer.

Outside of work, Stephen enjoys walking, playing golf, and riding motorcycles. He’s married to his wife, Lori, and is the proud father of three children.

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Service Advisor Assistant

Janie “J” Kirkland was born in Miami, Florida, and now calls Roy, Washington, home. Despite being newer to FloHawks, joining the team mid-2025, she has already become a valued member of the Service Advisor support team.

J enjoys the strong sense of teamwork at FloHawks and the relationships she has built with the people she works alongside each day. That collaborative spirit helps the team deliver the dependable service customers count on.

Outside the office, J loves spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, as well as making memories with her family. She’s the proud mother of two sons and a grandmother to four grandchildren.

Carl Evanson

Service Advisor

A Puyallup native who now lives in Spanaway, Carl Evanson has been helping customers at FloHawks for more than 13 years. As a Service Advisor, he brings deep experience and a practical approach to solving plumbing and septic challenges.

Carl takes pride in helping customers find real solutions to their problems. At FloHawks, the philosophy is simple: if water runs through it, the team can handle it, and Carl has spent more than a decade proving that to customers across the region.

When he’s not working, Carl enjoys camping and spending time with his growing family, which includes two grown sons and seven grandchildren.

Luke Schneider

Service Advisor Assistant

Originally from the Midwest and now living in the Puyallup area, Luke Schneider has spent the past three years supporting the FloHawks service team as a Service Advisor Assistant. His role focuses on logistics and administrative coordination, making sure the details are handled so the team can deliver excellent service in the field.

Luke especially enjoys the moment when everything comes together to solve a customer’s problem. Helping turn a complicated situation into a clear plan and a successful outcome is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

When he’s not working, Luke loves hosting and entertaining with his wife. Much of their free time is spent with family, often gathered around the table for board games and good conversation.

Crystal Lyons

Service Advisor Assistant

Born and raised in Tacoma and now living in Puyallup, Crystal Lyons has been part of the FloHawks team for four years. As a Service Advisor Assistant, she helps keep operations running smoothly while making sure customers feel supported every step of the way.

Crystal’s favorite part of the job is simple: helping people. Whether she’s assisting the service team behind the scenes or making sure customers get the answers they need, she takes pride in being part of a company that puts people first.

Outside of work, Crystal enjoys camping and spending time with her family. She’s married, and the proud mom of one daughter, and she also helps care for her niece, keeping family at the center of everything she does.