7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance it’s because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s an annoying situation, but don’t fret. Learning the most frequent causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water problems so you can get back to experiencing the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Do you have a gas water heater? It could very well not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspect rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Turn off the gas valves at your residence.
- Don’t switch any electrical appliances on or off.
- Avoid smoking or using a lit match.
- Open windows and doors for ventilation and evacuate the building.
- Notify the fire department and your utility provider.
- Do not ever try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water problem can be challenging to diagnose, but it’s a common cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by checking the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems undamaged, inspect the gas valve to ensure it’s in the proper position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is operating correctly but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Unfortunately, this may mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to operate effectively. If the light is out, you’ll have no hot water. Newer water heaters feature glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to find out if your unit has a pilot light. If that’s the case, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to dissipate before trying to relight it. Consult with a professional for assistance if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat needs to be set correctly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered the temperature to conserve energy while you were out of town, check the thermostat to make sure it’s between 120 and 140 degrees F. While you’re at it, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a common reason for a lack of hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, replacing it may be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
After awhile, sediment can collect in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in homes with hard water, but it can occur anytime.
Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already happened, you might need a specialist’s services to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to detect sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
6. Defective Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are dependable components in the plumbing world, but even they can have problems. If you’re experiencing no hot water, examine the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If the breakers appear normal, the heating elements could be the problem. Water heaters typically last about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater rather than repair the problematic elements.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is not big enough to handle your household’s hot water requirements, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re done dealing with tepid showers when you’re the last person to get ready each morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also want to learn more about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we strive to resolve your hot water issues promptly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert professionals, dedicated customer service and reputation for excellence, you can rest assured we will go the extra mile to meet all your plumbing needs.
Don’t let a lack of hot water interrupt your life a moment longer! Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 587-404-0790 today to schedule your appointment!