If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating state of affairs, but don’t panic. Learning the most likely reasons your home has 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 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 producing hot water because of a gas line leak. If you detect a suspicious 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.
- Do not ever try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be hard to diagnose, but it’s a common 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 intact, look at the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is working the way it should but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Unfortunately, this could mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced plumbing specialist like BW/Cook Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light is out, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from 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 air out before you try to relight it. Consult with a professional for help if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat has to be set correctly to provide your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to save energy while you were out of town, examine 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 no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, getting a new one to replace it may be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can accumulate in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more frequent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can occur anywhere.
Regular maintenance, which includes flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already developed, you might need Expert services to clean or replace the tank. Be mindful of the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can 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 are not immune to problems. If your home doesn't have any 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 could be the cause of your hot water issues. Water heaters usually last 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 hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water needs, 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 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 countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact BW/Cook Service Experts
At BW/Cook Service Experts, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues quickly, at a fair 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 disrupt your life any longer! Contact BW/Cook Service Experts and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 574-218-6404 today to schedule your appointment!