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 and there wasn't any hot water. It’s an irritating state of affairs, but don’t fret. Learning the most common causes of no hot water is the first step toward finding a remedy. 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
Does your home have a gas water heater? It might not be producing hot water because of a gas line leak. If you detect a questionable rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:
- Shut 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 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 problem can be tricky to detect, but it’s often the cause of no hot water coming from a gas water heater. Begin by examining the gas inlet valve and gas supply tube for leaks. If it all appears intact, inspect the gas valve to make sure 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 restricted. Regrettably, this may mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a trusted plumbing specialist like Becht/Givens Service Experts to be sure.
3. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is necessary for older gas water heaters to work effectively. If the light goes out, there won't be any hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters use glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to see if your unit has a pilot light. If your water heater does have a pilot light, you may need to turn off the regulator and wait for the gas to dissipate before you try to relight it. Contact a professional for help if you’re uncertain how to relight the pilot.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Your water heater thermostat must 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 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 option.
5. Sediment Buildup
With time, sediment can build up in the lower part of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a blockage between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and the possibility you'll have no hot water. Sediment buildup is more prevalent in neighborhoods with hard water, but it can take place anywhere.
Scheduled maintenance, such as flushing the tank at least annually, helps avoid this issue. If the problem has already taken place, you might need professional help to clean or replace the tank. Keep an eye on the clarity and quality of your hot water so you can catch 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 can have 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 the breakers appear normal, the heating elements may be to blame. Water heaters generally have a life span of about 10 years, so if yours is getting older, it could be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than repair the faulty components.
7. Undersized Water Heater
If the tank is doesn't have enough capacity to meet your household’s hot water requirements, you may end up running out of hot water. If you’re tired of not very hot showers when you’re the last person to get ready every day, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also want to learn more about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for endless back-to-back showers.
No Hot Water? Contact Becht/Givens Service Experts
At Becht/Givens Service Experts, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues quickly, at a competitive price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert specialists, unmatched customer service and reputation for excellent craftsmanship, 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! Contact Becht/Givens Service Experts and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 502-785-8230 today to arrange an appointment!
