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 a frustrating scenario, but don’t panic. Learning the most frequent causes of 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 enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Does your home 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 smell, 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 so the gas can disperse and evacuate the building.
- Contact the fire department and your utility provider.
- Never attempt to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water problem can be challenging to identify, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Get started by examining the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears intact, look at the gas valve to confirm it’s in the proper position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is operating the way it should but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be restricted. Unfortunately, this may mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled plumbing specialist like Calverley Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to operate properly. If the light goes out, you won't have any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters feature glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference your owner’s manual to learn if your unit has a pilot light. If your water heater does have a pilot light, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to air out before trying to relight it. Call a professional for advice if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat has to be set properly 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 broken, buying a new one could 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, causing inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in homes with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Scheduled maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least annually, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already developed, you may need professional 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 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 haven’t tripped, the heating elements could be the cause of your hot water issues. Water heaters usually last about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater 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 demands, you may wind up running out of hot water. If you’re tired of lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also want to learn more about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Calverley Service Experts
At Calverley Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues fast, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, unmatched 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! Get in touch with Calverley Service Experts and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 817-380-5647 today to schedule your appointment!