7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance it’s because you just had a shockingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to discover that your house doesn't have hot water. It’s an annoying situation, but don’t fret. Learning the most common 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 issues so you can get back to experiencing the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Do you have a gas water heater? It may not be generating 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:
- Turn 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 for ventilation and evacuate the building.
- Call 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 tricky to detect, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start off by examining the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears undamaged, inspect the gas valve to make sure it’s in the correct 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 restricted. Unfortunately, this may mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to work effectively. If the light goes out, you won't have any hot water. Modern 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 so, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to air out before trying to relight it. Consult with a professional for help if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat needs to be set correctly to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to conserve energy while you were out of town, look at 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 common reason for no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, replacing it could be the best option.
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, leading to inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more frequent in areas with hard water, but it can occur anywhere.
Scheduled maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least once a year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you may need a specialist's services to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can catch sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Defective 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, 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 could be the problem. 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 unit rather than repair the problematic elements.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water needs, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re done dealing with lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready every day, 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 Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, we strive to resolve your hot water issues fast, at a fair price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert professionals, unmatched customer service and reputation for excellent craftsmanship, 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 and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 239-908-6991 today to set up your appointment!
