If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s an annoying scenario, but don’t fret. Learning the most frequent things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here is a review of the reasons why you might be having hot water problems so you can get back to enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Does your home have a gas water heater? It could very well not be generating hot water because of a gas line leak. If you detect a questionable rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Turn off the gas valves at your home.
- 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.
- Never try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water issue can be challenging to detect, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If these both seem intact, look at the gas valve to confirm it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is working correctly but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. If that's the case, this may mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled 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 function properly. If the light is out, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to find out if your unit has a pilot light. If your water heater does have a pilot light, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to air out before attempting to relight it. Contact a professional for advice if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set correctly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently turned down the temperature to save energy while you were out of town, look at 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 remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
After awhile, sediment can build up in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more frequent in homes with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least once a year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you may need Expert assistance to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to catch sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
6. Malfunctioning Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are known as particularly solid components in the plumbing world, but even they sometimes experience problems. If you’re experiencing no hot water, look over the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If you don't find any tripped breakers, the heating elements might be to blame. Water heaters usually have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the problematic hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water needs, you may wind up 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 endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues promptly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, 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 for even a minute longer! Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 954-736-4314 today to schedule your appointment!