If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance it’s because you just had an icy cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating scenario, but don’t panic. Learning the most likely causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding a solution. Here is a review of the reasons why you might be having hot water issues so you can get back to enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
Do you have a gas water heater? It may not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you notice a suspicious rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
This hot water dilemma can be difficult to identify, but it’s often the 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 everything seems intact, check out the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is functioning the way it should but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Unfortunately, this might mean it’s time to invest in a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to be sure.
The pilot light is necessary for older gas water heaters to function effectively. If the light isn’t lit, there won’t be any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters feature glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference your owner’s manual to learn if your unit has a pilot light. If so, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to air out before attempting to relight it. Consult with a professional for help if you’re confused about how to relight the pilot.
Your water heater thermostat has to be set accurately to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered the temperature to conserve energy while you were out of town, examine 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 no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, getting a new one to replace it could be the best option.
With time, sediment can collect in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and the possibility you’ll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in homes with hard water, but it can occur anywhere.
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least annually, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already developed, you may need Expert assistance to clean or replace the tank. Be mindful of the clarity and quality of your hot water to detect sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
Electric water heaters are reliable components in the plumbing world, but even they can have 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 the breakers appear normal, the heating elements might be the problem. Water heaters generally have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater rather than repair the faulty elements.
If the tank is doesn’t have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water demands, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re sick and tired of putting up with not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready every day, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also ask an Expert for more information about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for countless back-to-back showers.
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know it’s important to solve your hot water issues quickly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, dedicated customer service and reputation for excellent craftsmanship, 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! Reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 866-397-3787 today to set up your appointment!
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