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 and there wasn’t any hot water. It’s a frustrating state of affairs, but don’t fret. Learning the most frequent things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. Here is a review of the 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 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 for ventilation and evacuate the building.
  • Call the fire department and your utility provider.
  • Never attempt to repair the gas line yourself.

2. Gas Valve Failure

This hot water issue can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start by checking the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears secure, look at the gas valve to confirm it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is operating the way it should but you still have no 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 a trusted plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to be sure.

3. The Pilot Light Is Out

The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to work correctly. If the light is out, you’ll have no hot water. Modern water heaters feature 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 trying 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 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. Also, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a frequent 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

After awhile, sediment can build up in the base of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can take place anyplace.

Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already happened, you may need Expert assistance 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 notice there isn’t any 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 might 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 unit rather than repair the problematic components.

7. Undersized Water Heater

If the tank is doesn’t have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water demands, you may find yourself 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 every day, 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 endless back-to-back showers.

No Hot Water? Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we know it’s important to solve your hot water issues quickly, affordably and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, first-class 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 & Plumbing and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 866-397-3787 today to arrange an appointment!

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