7 Common Causes of No Hot Water

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 an irritating situation, but don’t fret. Learning the most likely things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water challenges so you can get back to getting the hot showers you deserve.

1. Gas Leak

Do you have a gas water heater? It might not be generating hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspicious rotten egg smell, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:

  • Shut 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 to air out the home 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 problem can be difficult to diagnose, but it’s a frequent 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 these both seem undamaged, look at 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 have no hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. Regrettably, this may mean it’s time to purchase 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 vital for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light is out, you won’t have any hot water. Newer water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from 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. Consult with a professional for assistance if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.

4. Thermostat Malfunction

Your water heater thermostat must be set accurately to provide your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed 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. While you’re at it, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a frequent reason for homes not having hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, replacing it may be the best remedy.

5. Sediment Buildup

Over 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 frequent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can happen anyplace.

Scheduled maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already developed, you may need Expert services to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to detect sediment buildup before it becomes even more challenging to address.

6. Malfunctioning 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 your home doesn’t have any 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 may be the problem. Water heaters usually provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the faulty components.

7. Undersized Water Heater

If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water demands, you may end 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 endless back-to-back showers.

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

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we strive to resolve your hot water issues quickly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, first-class 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 a moment longer! Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 866-397-3787 today to set up your appointment!

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