7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had an icy cold shower or turned on the faucet and there wasn't any hot water. It’s a frustrating state of affairs, but don’t stress. 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 enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Do you have a gas water heater? It may not be producing hot water because of a gas line leak. If you notice a questionable rotten egg smell, 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.
- Call the fire department and your utility provider.
- Never try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start off by examining the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If these both seem secure, inspect the gas valve to confirm it’s in the proper position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is operating properly but you still don't have any hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. Unfortunately, this could mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced 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 isn't lit, there won't be any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters have glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from 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 disperse before attempting to relight it. Contact a professional for help if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set properly to provide your home with adequate hot water. If you recently turned down 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 homes not having hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, replacing it may be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
With time, sediment can collect in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in areas with hard water, but it can happen anyplace.
Scheduled maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already developed, you could potentially need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Be mindful of the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to catch sediment buildup before it becomes even more challenging to address.
6. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are dependable components in the plumbing world, but even they can have problems. If you notice there isn't any 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 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 unit rather than repair the faulty components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water demands, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re tired of not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready each 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 Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues quickly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, unmatched 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 affect your life a moment longer! Get in touch with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 407-329-7661 today to arrange an appointment!
