Given how hot water is so important in our daily lives and activities, having access to a reliable water heater is an absolute must. That’s why when your water heater stops working unexpectedly, it can really throw off your routines and become a major inconvenience.
Because water heaters can be relatively complex systems, there are a number of potential things that can go wrong with them. If you aren’t sure why your electric or gas water heater isn’t working, here are six possible culprits to be on the lookout for.
A Thermostat Issue
A faulty thermostat can disrupt the heating process by inaccurately regulating the water temperature. If the thermostat temperature setting malfunctions, it might lead to water that is too hot or inadequate hot water reaching the hot water faucet. Regular maintenance, such as adjusting the thermostat temperature or replacing the faulty thermostat, can resolve this problem and restore warm water to the system.
Pilot Light Problems
In a gas water heater, a pilot light failure is a frequent issue. A clogged pilot tube or gas valve failure can result in an insufficient gas supply to maintain the flame, making it impossible to heat the water.
Pilot light issues often occur when sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank affects the flame’s ability to ignite consistently. Addressing this promptly can prevent further common water heater problems and keep hot water flowing to your home.
No Electricity
Electric water heaters depend entirely on a steady electrical connection to produce hot water. This means that a tripped circuit breaker, loose wiring, or power surge can interrupt the heating process.
To resolve these problems, testing the circuit breaker and inspecting the wiring should be part of any water heater repair. If no electrical fault is found, the heating elements may be damaged and require replacement to restore the system to normal.
A Faulty Gas Valve
Gas water heaters rely on the gas control valve to regulate gas pressure and deliver a consistent flow of fuel to heat the water tank. A gas valve failure can prevent the burner from igniting, leaving the water supply unable to heat.
Over time, sediment buildup can clog the valve, and this obstruction can lead to reduced performance or complete failure. A professional water heater repair technician should inspect the valve and the water tank to determine the root cause and restore the gas supply.
There’s a Leak
If water heater leaks develop, they may result in visible puddles or reduced efficiency in producing hot water. Water heater leaks can occur in multiple areas, such as the pressure relief valve, drain valve, or the water tank itself.
Whatever the case may be, if you discover a leaking water heater, be sure to call a professional to assess whether a repair or a new water heater installation is needed. Regular maintenance, including checking the anode rod and flushing the tank to prevent sediment buildup, can help avoid these problems.
Broken Heating Element
It should go without saying, but a faulty heating element in an electric water heater will prevent the system from heating water properly. These components may fail due to mineral deposits accumulating on the heating elements or prolonged use.
Replacing the faulty heating element can restore the unit’s operation and ensure the water heater is capable of providing hot water as needed. Keeping an eye on mineral buildup in the water supply and flushing the water heater tank regularly can extend the lifespan of the heating element and prevent this issue.
If You Need to Repair Your Hot Water Heater, Call Fiscor Plumbing & Air!
Water heater repairs aren’t a big deal when professional plumbers are only a phone call away. At Fiscor Plumbing & Air, we perform professional water heater repairs in Camp Verde and other Arizona locations so that you don’t have to live without heated water. To learn more about our family-owned business and the other plumbing services we offer, reach out today!