Hot water is essential to a well-functioning home. We need hot water to bathe, to clean our homes, and for other common household tasks. When the water heater stops producing hot water, it is not only an inconvenience, but it can turn your day upside down.
In this article, we will look at the common causes of a water heater unable to produce hot water and the steps we can take to restore the hot water in your home.
Common Causes
There are several reasons why you have no hot water. Here we will look at several possible causes we frequently encounter.
Poor Water Quality
Hard water or poor water quality can play a part in a lack of hot water. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and unwanted particles like rust can negatively affect your water heater. As these particles build up inside the water heater, they can disable sensors that detect water temperatures. Corrosive material can also interfer with the burners causing them to become ineffective and unable to heat the water.
Malfunctioning Dip Tube
The dip tube is responsible for bringing cold water to the bottom of the storage tank. As the cold water is heated, it rises to the top of the tank and, from there, is distributed to meet hot water demand. A malfunctioning dip tube may allow cold water into the top of the tank, causing a lack of hot water.
Defective Gas Control Valve
This component of the water heater regulates the gas supply to the pilot light and main burner. If the pilot is not lit, the gas control valve will shut off the gas as a safety precaution. If the valve is not operating correctly it could be because the valve is not fully open.
Failed Pilot Light
When the gas control valve detects a need for hot water it opens to allow gas to flow to the pilot light in order to light the burners and heat the water. The pilot light is the source of a constant flame, and when the flame goes out, the thermocouple or thermopile will prevent the gas control valve from opening and the burners from igniting.
Clogged Air Intake Screen
Gas-using water heaters rely on oxygen for combustion to occur. When the air intake screen becomes clogged, not enough oxygen is available, which can lead to a pilot light outage, possible carbon monoxide poisoning, and a very slow or no hot water recovery. A clean screen is a must for adequate and dependable air flow.
Gas Leak
An interrupted gas supply will cause the heater to fail to produce hot water. The gas supply line should be inspected yearly for wear and tear or leaks. A hissing sound is a clear indicator of a gas leak, as is the smell of rotten eggs.
A gas water heater is a straightforward appliance that carries the heavy load of supplying hot water for washing clothes and dishes to providing hot, steamy showers, and, when it is not working correctly, it creates havoc. It is important to maintain a gas water heater to maximize its lifespan and ensure your hot water supply remains uninterrupted. Gas water heaters have an expected life of between 8-12 years, so if your heater is aging, it is best to replace it before a plumbing emergency occurs.
Yearly inspections are helpful in avoiding these common causes of water heater failure. The intake screen and pilot light will be cleaned and assessed for problems. The gas line and control valve will be examined for leaks and functionality, and the storage tank will be flushed to remove sediment buildup that can interfere with the burners.
We offer water heater maintenance, repair, and, if needed, replacement to ensure consistent and reliable hot water to keep you and your family comfortable and safe. Call us to schedule an inspection today!