If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet and there wasn't any hot water. It’s an annoying situation, but don’t stress. Learning the most common causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. Here is a look at why you might be having hot water troubles so you can get back to enjoying 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 questionable rotten egg smell, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Close off the gas valves at your house.
- 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.
- Contact the fire department and your utility provider.
- Do not ever try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be tricky to identify, but it’s a common cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start by evaluating the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears undamaged, look at the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is performing the way it should but you still don't have any hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. Regrettably, this might mean it’s time to purchase 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 vital for older gas water heaters to work properly. If the light goes out, there won't be any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult 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 disperse before you try to relight it. Contact a professional for help if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat needs to be set properly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to conserve energy while you were out of town, look at 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 very common reason for a lack of hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, buying a new one may be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can collect in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, leading to inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in areas with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Scheduled maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you might need Expert services to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water to identify 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 your home doesn't have any hot water, check the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If the breakers appear normal, the heating elements may be the problem. Water heaters usually have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater rather than repair the bad 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 sick and tired of putting up 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 countless 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 fast, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, unmatched 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 a moment longer! Reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 303-647-5853 today to schedule your appointment!