Having a non-functioning water heater can be frustrating, especially because it means no hot water when you need it. However, some signs that indicate it’s time to call in a professional plumber. Here are 10 possible reasons your water heater is not working.
Quick Takeaways
• A top reason for no hot water is power or pilot light issues
• Common internal issues include thermostat and sediment buildup
• Smells, noises, and leaks, noises often indicate tank or valve failure
• While some fixes are DIY-friendly, call a licensed plumber for more complicated issues.
What Causes a Water Heater to Stop Working?
While water heaters typically last 10-15 years, they may face repair issues before that due date. If an issue does arise, there are often tell-tale signs.
1. No Hot Water
One of the most common signs of a broken water heater is no hot water. If you have an electric water heater, check the breaker or heating element. If the circuit breaker has tripped, simply reset it. If the breaker keeps tripping, the heating element may be the problem.
On the other hand, if you have a gas water heater, your pilot light may be the issue. If it has gone out, try to relight it. If the pilot light is on, check the thermocouple. If your thermocouple is faulty, it won’t be able to detect the pilot light, which can prevent your water heater from producing hot water.
2. Not Enough Hot Water
Another problem homeowners face is not enough hot water. This problem could be due to sediment buildup. Sediment buildup reduces the amount of hot water in the tank.
Another culprit could be thermostat trouble. Your thermostat may not be working efficiently, or it could be set too low. Lastly, if you have a small tank, it may not be able to produce enough hot water for your household.
3. Water Temperature Fluctuates
If you notice your water temperature fluctuating, it typically means something is wrong with your thermostat. Contact a licensed plumber to see if it can be repaired. A damaged heating element may also be the problem.
4. Water Heater Leaks
Water leaks are cause for concern, and you should address a leak immediately. Likely causes include a faulty temperature and pressure (T&P) valve, a damaged drain valve, or even internal corrosion.
5. Strange Noises From the Tank
Strange noises from the tank can be startling. However, these noises usually indicate you have sediment buildup and it’s time to flush your tank.
Another reason could be due to a sudden surge in water pressure that causes a shockwave. This is known as the water hammer effect.
6. Discolored or Smelly Water
If you notice discolored or smelly water, contact a plumber immediately. Rust coming from your water heater means your anode rod is damaged, while a rotten egg smell indicates there is bacteria in the tank.
7. Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit
A pilot light that won’t stay lit could be as simple as a draft issue blowing the light out. However, it could point to a more serious issue, such as a bad thermocouple or a faulty gas valve.
8. Burned-Out Heating Element
If you have an electric water heater, lukewarm water or water that takes longer than normal to reach your desired temperature could mean a burned-out heating element.
9. Water Pressure Problems
Is your water pressure too low or too high? You may have a high PSI (pound per square inch) or a failed pressure relief valve.
A pressure-relief valve releases excess pressure in your water heater. If this component fails, pressure can build up in the tank to dangerous levels.
10. Old or Worn-Out Unit
Water heaters start to lose their efficiency after 10 years. If yours is over 10 years old, you may want to consider replacing it.
Water Heater Safety Tips Before You Start
You can typically fix small water heater problems on your own, such as trying to relight a pilot light or resetting a circuit breaker. Just keep these safety tips in mind before you start.
• Turn off the breaker or gas supply
• Let the unit cool before you inspect it
• Don’t forget to use goggles, gloves, and the proper tools for small DIY jobs
• If the problem is with your gas line, leave the job to a licensed plumber
When to Call a Professional
While small water heater issues are okay to tackle on your own, it’s important to call a professional plumber when you notice the following signs:
• You smell gas or you notice a leak
• Your tank is leaking from the bottom
• Your DIY attempts haven’t fixed the issue
• You’d like to upgrade to a newer or larger unit
Need fast, punctual plumbers? Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing for same-day water heater repair services. We serve Bradenton, FL, and the surrounding areas.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Water Heater Problems
Calling a professional plumber for quick repairs is one of the best steps you can take when you notice something’s off with your water heater. Another step you can take is to maintain it regularly. Here are some important maintenance tips we recommend:
• Flush your water heater tank twice a year
• Replace the anode rod every 3–5 years
• Keep the water pressure under 80 PSI
• Set the temperature to 120°F
• Schedule annual inspections with licensed plumbers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset my water heater?
To reset your water heater, simply press the red reset button on the upper thermostat. This should get it working again. However, if it trips again, you may have a faulty thermostat or heating element that needs replacing.
How long do water heaters last?
Most water heaters last anywhere from 8-12 years. Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan. With regular maintenance, they can last up to 20 years.
Why is my water heater making noise?
The noises coming from your water heater tank may be because of a buildup of sediment. To fix the problem, you can flush the tank. If that doesn’t solve the problem, call our plumbers for help.
Is it worth repairing an old water heater?
That depends. If your old water heater is over 10 years old and frequently needs repairs, you may be better off replacing it. However, if your water heater is less than 8 years old, a repair may be worth it.