If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance it’s because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating state of affairs, but don’t stress. 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 troubles so you can get back to enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Do you have a gas water heater? It could very well not be generating hot water because of a gas line leak. If you notice a suspect rotten egg smell, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Shut 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 to air out the home and evacuate the building.
- Notify the fire department and your utility provider.
- Never attempt to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by checking the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears intact, check out the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is performing properly but you still don't have any hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. If that's the case, this may mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Matz-Rightway to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to function properly. If the light isn't lit, you won't have any hot water. Newer water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to see if your unit has a pilot light. If that's the case, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to disperse before trying to relight it. Contact a professional for assistance if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set correctly to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently turned down the temperature to conserve 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 no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, buying a new one might be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
With time, sediment can collect in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in areas with hard water, but it can occur anyplace.
Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already happened, you could potentially need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can identify sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
6. Defective Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are known as particularly solid 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 haven’t tripped, the heating elements could be the cause of your hot water issues. Water heaters usually provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire thing rather than repair the bad components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water requirements, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re tired of not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the 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 endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Matz-Rightway
At Matz-Rightway, we strive to resolve your hot water issues promptly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, first-class 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 interrupt your life a moment longer! Contact Matz-Rightway and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 631-406-9220 today to set up your appointment!