7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a shockingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to discover that your house doesn't have hot water. It’s an annoying situation, but don’t panic. Learning the most likely 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 troubles so you can get back to experiencing the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Does your home have a gas water heater? It may not be making hot water because of a gas line leak. If you sense a suspicious rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Turn 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.
- Never try to repair the gas line yourself.
2. Gas Valve Failure
This hot water problem can be tricky to identify, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Get started by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If everything seems secure, inspect the gas valve to make sure it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is working correctly but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. If that's the case, this may mean it’s time to get a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact an experienced plumbing specialist like Atmostemp Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to operate properly. If the light goes out, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so seek advice from 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 dissipate 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 has to be set accurately 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, examine 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 homes not having hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, buying a new one might be the best option.
5. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment can accumulate in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in areas with hard water, but it can happen anytime.
Routine maintenance, including flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you might need Expert services 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. Malfunctioning Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are reliable components in the plumbing world, but even they are not immune to problems. If your home doesn't have any hot water, examine the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.
If you don't find any tripped breakers, the heating elements may be to blame. Water heaters generally provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire thing rather than repair the problematic hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water requirements, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re tired of lukewarm 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 countless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Atmostemp Service Experts
At Atmostemp Service Experts, we know it's important to solve your hot water issues quickly, at a fair 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 affect your life any longer! Reach out to Atmostemp Service Experts and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 856-310-4824 today to arrange an appointment!
