If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet and there wasn't any hot water. It’s an irritating scenario, but don’t fret. Learning the most common things that leave you with 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 issues so you can get back to enjoying the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Do you have a gas water heater? It may not be producing hot water because of a gas line leak. If you detect a suspect rotten egg odor, 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 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 issue can be difficult to detect, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start off by checking the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears undamaged, look at the gas valve to make sure it’s in the proper 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. Regrettably, this might mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled plumbing specialist like Gordon's Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is necessary for older gas water heaters to operate properly. If the light isn't lit, you’ll have no hot water. Modern water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference your owner’s manual to learn 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. Contact a professional for advice if you’re confused about how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat has to be set properly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently turned down 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. While you’re at it, 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 damaged, buying a new one may be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
With time, sediment can accumulate 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 the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more frequent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can happen anytime.
Routine maintenance, which includes flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already developed, you might need professional help to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to identify sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.
6. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are reliable components in the plumbing world, but even they sometimes experience problems. If you notice there isn't 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 usually have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater 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 done dealing with tepid showers when you’re the last person to get ready every day, 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 Gordon's Service Experts
At Gordon's Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues quickly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, dedicated 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 disrupt your life for even a minute longer! Reach out to Gordon's Service Experts and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 405-432-2197 today to set up your appointment!