7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating situation, but don’t panic. Learning the most common causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding a solution. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water challenges so you can get back to experiencing 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 detect a suspicious rotten egg smell, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Close off the gas valves at your residence.
- 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.
- Call the fire department and your utility provider.
- Never try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water problem can be hard 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 it all appears secure, look at the gas valve to ensure it’s in the proper position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is functioning properly but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be restricted. Regrettably, this could mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Church Services to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to function effectively. If the light is out, you won't have any 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 attempting to relight it. Call a professional for assistance if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set correctly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered the temperature to use less energy while you were out of town, check the thermostat to make sure it’s between 120 and 140 degrees F. As long as you're looking 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, replacing it might be the best solution.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can accumulate in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, leading to inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can happen anytime.
Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least once a year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already developed, you may need professional help to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to catch sediment buildup before it becomes even more challenging to address.
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, examine the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If the breakers haven’t tripped, the heating elements may be to blame. Water heaters generally have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater rather than repair the faulty hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is not big enough to handle your household’s hot water needs, 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 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 Church Services
At Church Services, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues promptly, at a fair price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, 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! Reach out to Church Services and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 713-396-3760 today to set up your appointment!