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 fret. Learning the most common causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. Here is a look at why you might be having hot water challenges so you can get back to enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
First, is this a situation where you have a gas water heater? It might not be generating hot water because of a gas line leak. If you detect a suspicious rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Shut 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 for ventilation and evacuate the building.
- Contact the fire department and your utility provider.
- Never try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be hard to identify, but it’s a common cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by examining the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears secure, inspect the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is performing correctly but you still don't have any hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. Regrettably, this may mean it’s time to invest in a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Strand Brothers Service Experts 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 isn't lit, you won't have any hot water. Newer water heaters feature 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 dissipate before attempting to relight it. Contact 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 provide 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. Also, 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 remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
With time, sediment can accumulate in the base of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in areas with hard water, but it can occur anywhere.
Scheduled maintenance, which includes flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you may need a specialist's assistance 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. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are dependable 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 appear normal, the heating elements might be to blame. Water heaters generally have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the problematic hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is not big enough to handle your household’s hot water demands, you may wind up running out of hot water. If you’re sick and tired of putting up with 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 endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Strand Brothers Service Experts
At Strand Brothers Service Experts, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues fast, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, 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 disrupt your life for even a minute longer! Get in touch with Strand Brothers Service Experts and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 512-592-3072 today to arrange an appointment!