7 Common Causes of No Hot Water

If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you just had a shockingly cold shower or turned on the faucet to find no hot water. It’s a frustrating 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 is a look at why you might be having hot water issues so you can get back to enjoying 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 detect a suspicious rotten egg aroma, assume you have a leak and follow these steps:

  • Close off the gas valves at your residence.
  • Don’t switch any electrical appliances on or off.
  • Avoid smoking or using a lit match.
  • Open windows and doors for ventilation 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 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 everything seems secure, inspect the gas valve to ensure it’s in the correct position and the gas is turned on. If the pilot light is functioning properly but you still have no hot water, the gas supply may be obstructed. Unfortunately, this might mean it’s time to purchase a new, more energy-efficient water heater. Contact a skilled plumbing specialist like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Calgary to be sure.

3. The Pilot Light Is Out

The pilot light is essential for older gas water heaters to function effectively. If the light is out, you’ll have no hot water. Recently manufactured water heaters feature glow plugs or spark igniters, so consult your owner’s manual to find out 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 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 must be set correctly to furnish your home with adequate hot water. If you recently turned down the temperature to save energy while you were out of town, examine 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 common reason for no hot water. If it turns out the thermostat is damaged, replacing it could be the best remedy.

5. Sediment Buildup

Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the water heater tank. This buildup creates a barrier between the heating element or burner and the water, causing inefficiency and could lead to no hot water. Sediment buildup is more common in areas with hard water, but it can happen anywhere.

Routine maintenance, including flushing the tank at least once a year, helps prevent this issue. If the problem has already occurred, you might need Expert assistance to clean or replace the tank. Be mindful of the clarity and quality of your hot water to detect sediment buildup before it becomes a bigger problem.

6. Malfunctioning Electric Water Heater

Electric water heaters are dependable components in the plumbing world, but even they sometimes experience problems. If you’re experiencing no hot water, check the connections to the water heater and reset any tripped breakers at the electrical panel.

If the breakers haven’t tripped, the heating elements might be to blame. Water heaters generally last 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 elements.

7. Undersized Water Heater

If the tank is too small for your household’s hot water needs, you may find yourself running out of hot water. If you’re tired of lukewarm showers when you’re the last person to get ready in the morning, consider upgrading to a larger tank. You might also want to learn more about tankless water heaters, which heat water on demand for countless back-to-back showers.

No Hot Water? Contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Calgary

At Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Calgary, we are dedicated to solving your hot water issues quickly, at a fair price and with long-lasting results. With our Expert professionals, unmatched 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 Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning Calgary and we’ll restore hot water to your home. Call 403-279-5760 today to schedule your appointment!

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