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 an annoying situation, but don’t stress. 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 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 making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspicious rotten egg odor, 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 to air out the home 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 issue can be challenging to identify, but it’s often the 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 these both seem undamaged, inspect the gas valve to ensure it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is performing properly but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. If that's the case, this may mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled plumbing specialist like Midland Air Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light goes out, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to learn 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 disperse before you try to relight it. Consult with a professional for advice if you’re confused about 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 use less 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 homes not having hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, 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 a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can take place anytime.
Scheduled maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you may need Expert services to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can detect sediment buildup before it becomes even more challenging to address.
6. Faulty 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 you notice there isn't any 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 typically 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 faulty components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water requirements, you may wind up running out of hot water. If you’re done dealing with not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the morning, 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 countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Midland Air Service Experts
At Midland Air Service Experts, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues fast, affordably 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 a moment longer! Reach out to Midland Air Service Experts and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 803-399-7208 today to set up your appointment!