7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to discover that your house doesn't have hot water. It’s an annoying situation, but don’t stress. Learning the most frequent things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water challenges so you can get back to experiencing the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Does your home have a gas water heater? It may not be generating hot water because of a gas line leak. If you detect a suspect rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Close 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 try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be difficult to identify, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by evaluating the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If these both seem secure, inspect the gas valve to ensure it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is operating properly but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be restricted. Regrettably, this might mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled 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 work properly. If the light goes out, you won't have any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters have glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference your owner’s manual to see 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 help if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat needs to be set accurately to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered the temperature to save 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 common reason for no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, replacing it may be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over 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, leading to inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in homes with hard water, but it can occur anytime.
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you could potentially need a specialist's help to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water to catch sediment buildup before it becomes even more challenging to address.
6. Malfunctioning Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are reliable components in the plumbing world, but even they sometimes experience 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 you don't find any tripped breakers, the heating elements may be the problem. Water heaters generally provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the bad elements.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water needs, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re tired of lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also want to learn more 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 know it's important to solve your hot water issues fast, at a fair price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, dedicated 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! Reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 919-578-4329 today to schedule your appointment!
