If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had a shockingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating state of affairs, but don’t stress. Learning the most common causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. 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 might not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspect rotten egg odor, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Shut 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 for ventilation and evacuate the building.
- Notify 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 tricky to identify, but it’s a common cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start by examining the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems undamaged, look at the gas valve to ensure it’s in the proper position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is working correctly but you still don't have any hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Regrettably, this may mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced plumbing specialist like Broad Ripple Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to work correctly. If the light goes out, you won't have any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from your owner’s manual to find out 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 dissipate before you try to relight it. Contact a professional for assistance if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat has to be set accurately to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently turned 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. Also, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a common reason for homes not having hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, getting a new one to replace it might be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can collect in the base of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more frequent in homes with hard water, but it can occur anyplace.
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you could potentially need professional services to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can detect sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
6. Faulty 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 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 cause of your hot water issues. Water heaters usually provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire thing rather than repair the problematic elements.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water requirements, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re tired of not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready each 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 Broad Ripple Service Experts
At Broad Ripple 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, first-class 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 Broad Ripple Service Experts and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 317-527-0271 today to schedule your appointment!