7 Common Causes of No Hot Water
If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you just had an icy cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s an annoying scenario, but don’t panic. Learning the most likely things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water issues so you can get back to experiencing the hot showers you deserve.
1. Gas Leak
Do you have a gas water heater? It might not be generating 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:
- Close 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.
- Contact 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 diagnose, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by inspecting the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears secure, inspect the gas valve to confirm 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 restricted. Regrettably, this could mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Winnipeg Supply Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to operate effectively. If the light goes out, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference 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. Consult with a professional for help 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 dialed 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. Also, 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 could be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
After awhile, 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, contributing to inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in homes with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least annually, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you could potentially need Expert help to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water in order to catch sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are reliable components in the plumbing world, but even they are not immune to 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 you don't find any tripped breakers, the heating elements might be to blame. 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 thing rather than repair the problematic 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 done dealing with not very hot 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 Winnipeg Supply Service Experts
At Winnipeg Supply Service Experts, we strive to resolve 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 disrupt your life a moment longer! Reach out to Winnipeg Supply Service Experts and we’ll get the hot water flowing again. Call 204-800-0613 today to schedule your appointment!
