If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had an icy cold shower or turned on the faucet to discover that your house doesn't have hot water. It’s an annoying scenario, but don’t panic. Learning the most common 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 issues so you can get back to experiencing 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 questionable rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Turn off the gas valves at your house.
- 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.
- Do not ever try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water issue can be tricky to detect, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start off by evaluating the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems undamaged, look at the gas valve to confirm it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is performing correctly but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. If that's the case, this may mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Air Engineers Service Experts 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 isn't lit, you’ll have no hot water. Newer water heaters feature glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult 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 attempting to relight it. Call a professional for help if you’re confused about how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set properly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to conserve 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 no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, getting a new one to replace it might be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
With 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 the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can take place anywhere.
Scheduled maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already developed, you may need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to catch sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Malfunctioning Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are reliable components in the plumbing world, but even they can have problems. If you’re experiencing no hot water, look over the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If the breakers appear normal, the heating elements could be the problem. Water heaters typically last about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the faulty components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is not big enough to handle 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 lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready every day, 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 Air Engineers Service Experts
At Air Engineers Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues quickly, affordably and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, dedicated 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 interrupt your life for even a minute longer! Contact Air Engineers Service Experts and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 904-450-5672 today to schedule your appointment!