If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s an annoying state of affairs, but don’t panic. Learning the most common things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding a solution. 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
Does your home have a gas water heater? It could very well not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a questionable rotten egg odor, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Shut 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 to air out the home and evacuate the building.
- Contact the fire department and your utility provider.
- Never attempt to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water issue can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s a common 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 it all appears intact, check out the gas valve to ensure it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is operating the way it should but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Regrettably, this may mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Teays Valley Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light isn't lit, you won't have any hot water. Newer water heaters have glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from your owner’s manual to see if your unit has a pilot light. If so, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to dissipate before attempting to relight it. Contact a professional for assistance if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat needs to be set properly to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered the temperature to use less energy while you were out of town, examine the thermostat to make sure it’s between 120 and 140 degrees F. As long as you're looking at it, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a common reason for homes not having hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, replacing it may be the best solution.
5. Sediment Buildup
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, leading to inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Routine maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you could potentially need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to detect sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are dependable components in the plumbing world, but even they sometimes experience problems. If you’re experiencing no hot water, check the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If the breakers haven’t tripped, the heating elements could be the cause of your hot water issues. Water heaters usually last about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the problematic components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is not big enough to handle your household’s hot water demands, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re done dealing with lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the morning, 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 endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Teays Valley Service Experts
At Teays Valley Service Experts, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues promptly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, first-class 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 affect your life any longer! Contact Teays Valley Service Experts and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 304-760-5088 today to set up your appointment!