If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had an icy cold shower or turned on the faucet and there wasn't any hot water. It’s an irritating state of affairs, but don’t stress. Learning the most frequent causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here is a review of the reasons why you might be having hot water problems so you can get back to experiencing the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
First, is this a situation where you have a gas water heater? It could very well not be producing hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspect rotten egg odor, 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 to air out the home and evacuate the building.
- Notify 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 tricky to identify, 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 these both seem secure, inspect the gas valve to make sure it’s in the proper 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 blocked in some way. Unfortunately, this may mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Stark Services to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is necessary for older gas water heaters to function effectively. If the light goes out, there won't be any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters have glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to see if your unit has a pilot light. If your water heater does have a pilot light, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to disperse before attempting to relight it. Call a professional for advice if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set accurately to supply your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to save energy while you were out of town, check 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 very common reason for a lack of hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, buying a new one might be the best solution.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can collect in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, leading to inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in areas with hard water, but it can take place anywhere.
Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already developed, you could potentially need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water to catch sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Faulty 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 may be the problem. Water heaters generally provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it might 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 wind up running out of hot water. If you’re done dealing with tepid showers when you’re the last person to get ready each morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also want to learn more about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for unlimited back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Stark Services
At Stark Services, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues quickly, 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 disrupt your life for even a minute longer! Contact Stark Services and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 817-668-6689 today to schedule your appointment!