7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance it’s because you just had a shockingly 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 reasons your home has no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. Here is a look at 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:
- Close 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 attempt to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be hard to identify, but it’s often the 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 everything seems undamaged, look at the gas valve to ensure it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is performing correctly but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. Unfortunately, this may mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Roland J. Down Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to function properly. If the light isn't lit, you’ll have no hot water. Newer 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 that's the case, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to disperse before you try to relight it. Contact a professional for assistance if you’re confused about 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 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 very common reason for a lack of hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, buying a new one might be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can build up in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in areas with hard water, but it can take place anyplace.
Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least annually, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you might need professional services to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water to detect sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Defective Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are known as particularly solid components in the plumbing world, but even they are not immune to 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 haven’t tripped, the heating elements may be to blame. Water heaters generally provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire thing rather than repair the problematic components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet 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 countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Roland J. Down Service Experts
At Roland J. Down Service Experts , we know it's important to solve your hot water issues fast, affordably and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, unmatched customer service and reputation for quality work, you can rest assured we will go the extra mile to meet all your plumbing needs.
Don’t let a lack of hot water disrupt your life a moment longer! Contact Roland J. Down Service Experts and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 518-417-2938 today to arrange an appointment!
