Grayson West
Sick of shivering through showers or getting a surprise splash of cold while doing the dishes? Yeah, we’ve all been there. No hot water can turn a good day upside down really fast, and the struggle to figure out what’s gone wrong can make it even worse. Here’s what could be happening and how to go about it.
Gas Leak Alert
If your water heater is powered by gas, there could be a leak. It won’t just leave you without hot water—it poses a serious safety risk. When you notice a rotten egg odor, shut off the gas right away and get in touch with a professional for help. This is one problem you don’t want to DIY.
Water Heater Tank Leak
A leak in your water heater’s tank could explain why water is pooling around the heater. When the tank is leaking, it means less water to heat and, eventually, no hot water at all. Leaks usually mean you need repairs or a replacement, depending on the severity.
Gas Valve Malfunction
The gas flowing to your heater is regulated by the gas valve, and if it’s malfunctioning, the heater won’t get the fuel it needs to work. If the valve is broken, you’ll need to replace it. In this situation, it’s best to call in a professional to handle it safely.
Pilot Light Failure
One common issue with gas water heaters is that the pilot light goes out. Without that tiny flame, the heater can’t warm up the water. Relighting the pilot is usually an easy fix, but if it keeps going out, it could indicate a bigger issue, like a faulty thermocouple.
Electric Heater Issues
Electric water heaters can have different issues from gas ones, mostly related to power. If your electric heater isn’t working, it could be due to a malfunction with the power source or internal components. You may need an electrician to check and fix the problem.
Thermostat Problems
The thermostat on your water heater controls how hot the water gets. If it’s malfunctioning, you’re either getting water that’s ice-cold or too hot. Start by adjusting the temperature setting. If that doesn’t solve the issue, you may need to consider replacing the thermostat.
Broken Heating Element
In an electric heater, the heating element is responsible for heating your water. When it breaks down, hot water won’t be available. Fortunately, heating elements can be replaced, and if it’s been a while since it was last checked, a professional can help you swap it out.
Water Heater Tank Too Small
If you’ve got a big family or an endless love for long showers, a small tank won’t cut it. Your water heater can only heat so much at a time, and when it’s all used up, it needs time to refill and reheat. Think about upgrading to a larger tank or tankless system.
Cold Weather Impact
When it’s freezing outside, your water heater has to work harder to heat the incoming cold water. If the temperature drops dramatically, give your heater a bit more time to catch up. In colder climates, adding insulation to your water heater and pipes can help.
High Hot Water Usage
Suppose your family is taking back-to-back showers, using the dishwasher, and doing laundry at the same time, your water heater might not be able to keep up. Spread out the usage to give the heater time to catch up, or consider upgrading to a higher-capacity model.
Aging Water Heater
Water heaters, like all good things, don’t last forever. If yours is over ten years old, it might be nearing the end of its life. Older heaters become less efficient, and eventually, they just stop working. A replacement might be your best bet if you happen to have an old one.
Circuit Breaker Tripped
Electric heaters rely on electricity, so if the circuit breaker trips, the heater has no power, and you have no hot water. Head to the breaker box and see if the water heater’s breaker needs resetting. If it keeps tripping, you might have an electrical issue that needs checking out.
Sediment Accumulation
Over time, minerals in the water settle at the bottom of the tank and form sediment. Such sediment buildup can work like an insulating layer, slowing down the water heating process. Go ahead and check, then drain, and flush your tank.
Rust and Corrosion Warning
If your water is coming out rusty or brown, it could mean there’s corrosion inside your water heater. Rust weakens the tank over time, and once it takes over, it’s usually game over for the tank. Unfortunately, the fix here is likely a new water heater.
Anode Rod Failure
The anode rod helps prevent rust from forming inside your water heater tank. If this rod deteriorates, rust will start to develop, leading to bigger problems down the line. Replacing the anode rod is a lot cheaper than buying a new water heater, so make sure it’s doing its job.