Did you suddenly rush into your washroom only to find that freezing cold water is coming out of the tap? If yes, then I do understand how frustrating it can be in winters when your water heater is down. There are some unfortunate times in our life when there is no hot water in the house. This could be presenting as no water from hot taps at all, cold water from hot taps or no hot water pressure.
Although there can be other reasons why there is no hot water in your house, finding the exact reason can be very tricky. That is why we have listed in this blog some common causes of this problem. Also, for your ease, we have some tips that can help you tackle the situation.
Common Causes to Why There Is No Hot Water
Whether you use a gas water heater or electric water heater, there can be several reasons why no hot water is coming through your taps. If you have a small capacity heater, then the cause is maybe overuse. Also, sometimes with the gas water heater, the gas supply is blocked, which restricts the heater to function properly.
There are times when all that we need to do is to give the water heater some time to reheat the water. But even after a couple of hours of reheating, if you don’t get hot water, then the problem can be somewhere else.
Let’s see what could go wrong with your water heaters.
Water Heater with Blocked Gas Supply
In the majority of the time, the reason behind improper functioning of your gas water heater is the low level of gas supply, blocked or no gas supply. This is the most common cause as to why you don’t have hot water in your house.
If your gas water heater is switched on, but there is no hot water, then before doing anything else, do check the gas supply level. It may be that you have switched off the gas supply and forgot about it. Also, there can be some defect in the gas supply switch. In such a case, you have to switch your gas to “pilot” and take off the cover that is around the pilot light and burner. This can solve your problem. But if the problem still persists, then do not hesitate to call a plumber.
Absence of Pilot Light
If you don’t see a flame in your gas water heater, then probably your pilot light is off. The effective solution to this issue is quite simple; you just have to relight it. This is only possible in the old models of the water heater as the new models have pilot igniters or glow plugs. And if you have the new model, then you will need to call a professional to fix it. You cannot do it on your own.
If you have a pilot light in your water heater, then you can follow the steps below to fix it.
- Switch off the regulator for a minimum of 5 minutes and wait for the gas to dissipate. Then turn your regulator to pilot.
- After this, press and hold the ignition knob for at least 60 seconds and then turn the regulator ON.
- Now carefully relight the pilot burner. When doing so, use a long lighter for safety and convenience.
- Even after all these, if the pilot still does not have a flame, then check your gas inlet valve. Make sure that the gas inlet valve is open.
- Then try to relight the pilot burner.
In case you still face problems with the water heater, then there must be some problem with the thermocouple. You will need to contact the gas agency or a professional to check.
No Hot Water Due to Gas Leak
When you smell gas around your water heater, it’s definitely that your unit is facing a gas leak issue. You must immediately switch off your heater and contact a professional to fix it. In the meantime, make sure you close the gas valve by pushing it downwards.
Fault In High-Temperature Cut-off Switch
The most common cause why there is no hot water in your house from your electric heater is a tripped faulty high-temperature cut-off switch. You need to open the switch and push a button.
When you push that button, you will hear a clicking sound, and power will be restored to the water heater.
Faulty Heating Elements
Electric water heaters last for a maximum of 10 years. The reason why you don’t have hot water in your house can be related to damaged or worn out heating elements that need replacement.
Problem with Thermostat
If your water heater has a faulty thermostat, then also the water won’t get warm or heated. The thermostat controls the lower and upper heating elements. So a defective thermostat will directly affect the heating elements, thus disrupting the healing process of the water heater.
How to Fix Hot Water Issues
Though there can be several reasons, you can always find solutions to fix it. Here are some of the tips to fix your hot water problems.
- Always check that your hot water usage and the capacity of the heater is in accordance with each other.
- Keep track of the replaced and damaged heating elements in case of electric water heaters.
- Always make sure there is no water leakage in your electric water heater.
- In the case of a gas water heater, make sure that the gas valve is open and there is no gas leakage.
- Keep a check on the wiring of your house. Too much load and loose wiring can fuse the water heater.
- Check the status of your water tank from time to time. A damaged tank will not allow the water to reach a certain heater temperature. A broken tank can lead to accidents like short circuits and water outbreaks.
For several different reasons, a water heater may stop dispensing hot water. Stay alert, however, and always find a way to address a problem with hot water if one happens. You should know how to detect the problem and fix it with this post before it becomes too serious.