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 irritating scenario, but don’t panic. Learning the most common things that leave you with no hot water is the first step toward finding a solution. Here are some of the most likely reasons why you might be having hot water issues 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:
- 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 so the gas can disperse and evacuate the building.
- Contact 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 tricky to detect, but it’s a common cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Start by checking the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears secure, check out the gas valve to confirm it’s in the right position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is working the way it should but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be restricted. Unfortunately, this may mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Komfort Air Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is vital for older gas water heaters to operate correctly. If the light isn't lit, you won't have any hot water. Modern water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so reference your owner’s manual to see 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 trying to relight it. Call a professional for assistance if you’re confused about how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat has to be set correctly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently dialed down the temperature to conserve 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 no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is broken, getting a new one to replace it could be the best remedy.
5. Sediment Buildup
After awhile, sediment can accumulate in the base of the water heater tank. This buildup creates an obstruction between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can occur anyplace.
Routine maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least one time per year, helps protect against this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you might need Expert services to clean or replace the tank. Monitor the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can identify sediment buildup before it becomes a larger issue.
6. Faulty Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters are known as particularly solid components in the plumbing world, but even they sometimes experience 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 you don't find any tripped breakers, the heating elements might be to blame. Water heaters generally last about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire water heater rather than repair the faulty hardware.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water demands, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re sick and tired of putting up 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 inquire about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Komfort Air Service Experts
At Komfort Air Service Experts, we strive to resolve your hot water issues quickly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert technicians, first-class 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 any longer! Contact Komfort Air Service Experts and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 704-705-8135 today to set up your appointment!