7 Common Causes of No Hot Water

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance it’s because you just had an icy cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s an irritating state of affairs, but don’t stress. Learning the most frequent things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here is a look at why you might be having hot water troubles so you can get back to getting the hot showers you deserve.

1. Gas Leak

First, is this a situation where you have a gas water heater? It might not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you notice a suspicious rotten egg smell, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:

• Close 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 so the gas can disperse and evacuate the building.
• Contact 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 challenging to identify, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Get started by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems secure, check out 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 do not have hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. If that’s the case, this might mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to be sure.

3. The Pilot Light Is Out

The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to function effectively. If the light isn’t lit, you’ll have no hot water. Newer water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference 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 disperse before you try to relight it. Call a professional for assistance if you’re confused about how to relight the pilot.

4. Thermostat Malfunction

Your water heater thermostat has to be set accurately to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered the temperature to use less 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 malfunctioning, getting a new one to replace it could be the best solution.

5. Sediment Buildup

With time, sediment can build up 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 a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can occur anytime.

Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already happened, you might need professional assistance to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water to identify sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.

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, check the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.

If the breakers haven’t tripped, the heating elements might be to blame. Water heaters typically last about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire thing rather than repair the bad hardware.

7. Undersized Water Heater

If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water needs, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re sick and tired of putting up with not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready every day, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also inquire about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for unlimited 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 fast, affordably and with long-lasting results. With our Expert professionals, 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 disrupt your life any longer! Get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 866-397-3787 today to schedule your appointment!