If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a breathtakingly cold shower or turned on the faucet and there wasn't any hot water. It’s an annoying scenario, but don’t panic. Learning the most common things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding an answer. Here is a review of the reasons why you might be having hot water issues so you can get back to enjoying 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 notice a suspicious rotten egg smell, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Close 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 to air out the home and evacuate the building.
- Contact 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 tricky to detect, 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 everything seems undamaged, inspect the gas valve to confirm it’s in the proper position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is functioning correctly but you still do not have hot water, the gas supply may be blocked in some way. Regrettably, this could mean it’s time to buy a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled plumbing specialist like McKinley Heating Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is necessary for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light isn't lit, you’ll have no hot water. Newer water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to see if your unit has a pilot light. If so, 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 uncertain 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 lowered 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. As long as you're looking at it, check for a tripped high-temperature cutoff switch, as this is a frequent reason for no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is malfunctioning, buying a new one could be the best solution.
5. Sediment Buildup
After awhile, sediment can accumulate in the base of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, contributing to inefficiency and a potential lack of hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.
Regular maintenance, which includes flushing the tank at least once a year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already happened, you may 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. Malfunctioning 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, check 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 the cause of your hot water issues. Water heaters typically provide service for about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire thing rather than repair the problematic hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water demands, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re tired of tepid showers when you’re the last person to get ready each morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also inquire about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact McKinley Heating Service Experts
At McKinley Heating Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues promptly, affordably and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, dedicated customer service and reputation for excellence, 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! Get in touch with McKinley Heating Service Experts and we’ll get you back to enjoying the comfort and convenience of reliable hot water. Call 780-800-7092 today to schedule your appointment!