Nothing is worse than coming home from a long day’s work only to discover you don’t have any hot water. It can be easy to jump to various conclusions but don’t worry. The problem could be more simple than you think.
Here at Mr. Plumber, we are experts when it comes to water heaters. Here are a few things that could be wrong with your water heater.
No Power
If you have an electric water heater and it’s not producing any hot water, then you could have a minor electrical issue. Start by checking the circuit breaker and make sure it hasn’t tripped. If the circuit breaker is on, try checking the power cord. Make sure it’s plugged in properly and there’s no damage to the cord.
Then, try looking for the safety switch near or on the water heater’s thermostat. Not all water heaters come equipped with this switch. If you can’t find it then your water heater possibly doesn’t have one.
No Gas or Gas Leak
If you have a gas water heater and it’s not producing any hot water, then there could be an issue with the gas line connecting to the water heater. Start by investigating the gas line connected to your water heater. It will likely be yellow.
Then look for the following signs for a gas leak:
Hissing Sound
If you hear a hissing noise coming from the line, then there is likely a crack in your gas line.
Foul Smell
Gas leaks create a terrible odor. If you smell something akin to rotten eggs, then you likely have a gas leak.
Unusually High Gas Bill
If your gas line looks to be normal, there still could be a leak coming from somewhere. Keep an eye on your gas bill and if it’s much higher than usual, you could still have a gas leak.
If you suspect you have a gas leak coming from your water heater or anywhere in your home, turn off the gas immediately. Then call a professional to investigate the issue further. Gas leaks can be dangerous, so don’t wait to call a repairman.
Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat is a crucial part of the water heater. While it has many roles, one of the most important things it does is control the heat of the water inside of the tank. The thermostat is constantly adjusting to your hot water needs, whether it’s for your dishwasher or your shower. The thermostat comes built-in with a safety switch that shuts off the thermostat in case the water gets too hot.
Locate your thermostat and make sure that it’s turned on. If it shuts off repeatedly then your thermostat is likely broken. Unless you are an experienced electrician or plumber, it’s recommended you call a professional to replace the thermostat.
Loose Parts
If you find that water is leaking from a fitting, then something may be loose on the water heater. If you see water coming from bolts on the heating element or from a fitting, they probably need to be tightened. It’s recommended to call a professional. However, if you want to fix it yourself, be sure to turn off the water heater first. If water is leaking from the bottom of the water heater, then you probably have a leak in the water heater itself.
Contact Mr. Plumber
If you suspect you have any issues with your water heater, then trust the experts and call Mr. Plumber. We’ve been serving the San Antonio community for over forty years and we are professionals when it comes to all things plumbing. Whether you need help with your water heater, your bathroom plumbing, or a gas leak, you can trust us to get it done right the first time.
If you are in the San Antonio area, contact us today!
