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 panic. Learning the most common things that leave you with 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 may not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspect rotten egg smell, 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 to air out the home 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 problem can be tricky to diagnose, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start off by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems secure, look at the gas valve to make sure it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is functioning correctly but you still don't have any hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Regrettably, this could 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 necessary for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light isn't lit, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference 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 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 has to be set correctly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to use less energy while you were out of town, check 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 frequent reason for no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, buying a new one may be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can accumulate in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in areas with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least annually, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already developed, you could potentially need professional services to clean or replace the tank. Be mindful of the clarity and quality of your hot water to detect 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 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 might be the problem. Water heaters generally last 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.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water requirements, you may wind up running out of hot water. If you’re sick and tired of putting up 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 unlimited back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues promptly, at a fair price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert professionals, 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 interrupt your life a moment longer! Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 901-235-1196 today to schedule your appointment!