Water Heater Repair: 5 Possible Reasons Your Water Isn't Heating

Posted on: 24 May 2022

A water heater that isn't heating water can be frustrating if you don't know what to do about it. Fortunately, a skilled water heater repair technician can find the cause and fix the problem so your family can get warm showers and soapy baths again! Here are possible reasons to call the heating technician when your hot water runs out!

1) The Heater Has No Gas/Power

If your water heater suddenly stops heating, make sure it has gas or power. Is there a pilot light? Do you have electricity to run it? Be sure your utility company hasn't turned off your power. If the heater doesn't turn on when you power it on, call the heater technician to diagnose power or gas faults. 

2) The Thermostat Is Set to Too Low or Is Faulty

Water heater thermostats are designed to work over a wide range of temperatures, so if your water heater is set too low, it won't be able to heat your water enough to stay above ambient room temperature. Turn your thermostat up and see if that solves your problem. If it doesn't, call the technician. 

3) The Dip Tube Is Broken

One of the main things to check when a boiler isn't heating water is to make sure that the dip tube, which routes cold water from your supply tank up into your boiler, is inserted and secure. When it's not in place, water doesn't get pulled from your tank and put into your boiler, meaning you have no hot water. The plumber will replace this component.

4) The Temperature and Pressure Release Valves Are Faulty 

The TPR is a safety device designed to keep pressure in the tank at safe levels. Heat creates pressure and there is always a risk of spiking pressure in a water heater tank. The TPR blows off steam to relieve this pressure and prevent an explosion.

When the TPR is faulty, it can overcorrect, which means pressure levels remain too low in the tank, causing rapid heat loss. When you open the faucet, you get hot water, which lasts for a very short time. The remedy is to replace this component.

5) The Tank Is Too Small

The capacity of your water heater tank is a major factor in determining how long you'll be without hot water. If you don't have an endless supply or your tank is too small, there are two reasons for that: either you haven't had enough time to let your tank reheat after being emptied, or your heater is broken. If there is an increased demand for hot water in the home, consider upgrading to a larger tank. 

A water heater in working condition is essential to your home's hygiene and comfort. Call a water heater service, such as D & S Plumbing, to diagnose and fix problems with your water heater.

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