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 to discover that your house doesn’t have hot water. It’s an irritating state of affairs, but don’t panic. Learning the most likely things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding a solution. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water problems so you can get back to getting 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 notice a questionable rotten egg odor, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
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- Turn off the gas valves at your house.
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- Don’t switch any electrical appliances on or off.
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- Avoid smoking or using a lit match.
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- Open windows and doors for ventilation and evacuate the building.
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- Call the fire department and your utility provider.
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- Never try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems undamaged, inspect the gas valve to make sure 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 restricted. If that’s the case, this could mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled
plumbing specialist like Fras-Air/General Service Experts 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 goes out, you’ll have no hot water. Newer water heaters feature glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from your owner’s manual to learn 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 attempting to relight it. Consult with a professional for help if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat has to be set properly to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down 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 common reason for a lack of hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, getting a new one to replace it may be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
With time, sediment can collect in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in areas with hard water, but it can take place anytime.
Regular maintenance, which includes flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you may need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to identify sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Malfunctioning 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 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 the breakers haven’t tripped, the heating elements could 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 unit rather than repair the bad hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn’t have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water requirements, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re done dealing with lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready each morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also inquire about
tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Fras-Air/General Service Experts
At Fras-Air/General Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues fast, affordably and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, dedicated 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 interrupt your life a moment longer! Get in touch with Fras-Air/General Service Experts and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 908-448-2154 today to set up your appointment!
