If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had a shockingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating 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 is a look at why you might be having hot water troubles so you can get back to getting the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
First, is this a situation where you have a gas water heater? It may not be producing hot water because of a gas line leak. If you notice a questionable 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 so the gas can disperse and evacuate the building.
- Call the fire department and your utility provider.
- Do not ever try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water dilemma can be tricky to diagnose, but it’s a frequent cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start off by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems undamaged, inspect the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is functioning properly but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be restricted. Unfortunately, this might mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled plumbing specialist like Peachtree Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to work properly. If the light is out, there won't be any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters have glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference your owner’s manual to find out 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 you try to relight it. Consult with a professional for help if you’re unsure how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must be set accurately to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently lowered 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. While you’re at it, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a common reason for a lack of hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, replacing it could be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can build up in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more frequent in homes with hard water, but it can take place anyplace.
Routine maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you could potentially need professional 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. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are dependable components in the plumbing world, but even they can have problems. If you’re experiencing no 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 could be to blame. Water heaters usually provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the bad elements.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water needs, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re sick and tired of putting up with tepid showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also inquire about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for unlimited back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Peachtree Service Experts
At Peachtree Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues quickly, at a fair price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, first-class 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! Get in touch with Peachtree Service Experts and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 678-235-9699 today to set up your appointment!