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Why Don’t I Have Hot Water?

Nothing gets the heart pumping faster than standing in the shower as the water turns ice cold. This can be especially frustrating in the middle of winter, when you depend on a steady supply of hot water the most.

Several factors can contribute to the loss of hot water, ranging from minor problems you can fix yourself to more serious issues that may require professional attention. If you’re suddenly without hot water, it’s important to determine the cause of the issue to get it resolved quickly.

1. Thermostat or Pilot Light Issues

If you have a gas water heater, one of the most common reasons for no hot water is a problem with the thermostat or pilot light or thermostat. If the thermostat is set to low, the water may not heat to the desired temperature. Make sure the thermostat is set to the appropriate temperature (usually around 120°F). If it’s malfunctioning, you may need to replace it.

The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner to heat your water. If it goes out, your water heater won’t function. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it could be a sign of a faulty thermocouple, which is a sensor that detects whether the pilot light is on.

2. Tripped Circuit Breaker

For electric water heaters, a tripped circuit breaker is a common issue that can prevent your heater from functioning. If the breaker trips, the heater won’t receive power and won’t be able to heat the water. Check if the breaker for your water heater has flipped to the “off” position. If it has, flip it back to “on” and see if the hot water returns. If the breaker trips again, there could be a more serious issue with the wiring or the heater itself that requires professional attention.

3. Sediment Buildup

Over time, sediment from minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up in the bottom of your water heater’s tank. As sediment accumulates, it can cause the water heater to work less efficiently, resulting in insufficient hot water. You may need to have the tank flushed to remove the sediment buildup. This is a relatively easy task for a homeowner to perform, but if you’re unsure, it’s best to call a professional to avoid damaging the system.

4. A Broken Heating Element

Electric water heaters use one or two heating elements to heat the water inside the tank. If one of these elements fails, it can result in a lack of hot water or water that doesn’t get as hot as it should. If the element is faulty, it will need to be replaced. This is a job that’s best handled by a professional

5. Water Heater Age and Wear

Like any appliance, water heaters have a limited lifespan. Most traditional water heaters last between 10 and 15 years. If your water heater is approaching or has reached the end of it’s lifespan and suddenly stops producing hot water, it might be time for a replacement.

Dealing with a sudden loss of hot water? Or perhaps your water heater is making some unusual noises. Whatever the issue, contact Best Choice Plumbers today. We repair, maintain, and install all makes and models of hot water systems so you can enjoy endless hot water all year long.

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