Water Heater Not Heating? 6 Common Problems & Solutions

When your water heater stops producing hot water, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Before you call for professional water heater help, identifying the problem is essential. This guide outlines six common causes of a water heater not heating and provides actionable solutions to get your system running again.

1. Electric Water Heater Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

How to locate your water heater’s circuit breaker: The circuit breaker for your water heater is typically in the main electrical panel. It should be labeled clearly, making it easy to find.

Common reasons for repeated tripping:

• Overloaded circuits or improper wiring
• A faulty heating element drawing too much current
• Issues with the thermostat or control board

Safe reset procedures: Turn off the breaker completely before resetting it. If it trips again immediately, avoid repeated resets and consult a professional to avoid electrical hazards.

2. Gas Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

Steps to check gas supply issues: Ensure the gas valve is fully open and inspect for any kinks in the supply line. If there’s no smell of gas, it may indicate a supply interruption.

How to safely relight the pilot: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which often involve holding the pilot button and using a match or lighter.

Common causes of pilot light failure:

• Dirty or clogged pilot orifice
• Faulty thermocouple
• Drafts extinguishing the flame

Testing the thermocouple: Use a multimeter to check if the thermocouple generates voltage when heated. If not, replace it with a compatible part.

3. Water Heater Thermostat Not Working Properly

Signs of thermostat failure:

• Water temperature fluctuations
• No hot water despite the heater running
• A continuously running water heater

Testing thermostat functionality: Turn off power, remove the access panel, and use a multimeter to check for continuity.

Step-by-step replacement guide:

1. Shut off power or gas supply.
2. Remove the access cover and disconnect the thermostat wires.
3. Replace the faulty thermostat with a compatible model.
4. Reconnect wires and restore power.

Proper temperature settings: Set the thermostat to 120°F to 140°F for optimal performance and safety.

4. How to Flush Water Heater Sediment

Signs of sediment buildup:

• Rumbling or popping noises from the tank
• Reduced water heating efficiency
• Discolored or cloudy water

Step-by-step flushing procedure:

1. Turn off power or gas to the heater.
2. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and direct it to a safe drainage area.
3. Open the valve and allow water to flow until clear.
4. Close the valve and refill the tank.

Maintenance schedule recommendations: Flush your water heater every six to twelve months to minimize sediment buildup.

Impact of water hardness on sediment buildup: Hard water accelerates sediment accumulation, necessitating more frequent maintenance or the installation of a water softener.

5. Water Heater Size Problems and Solutions

How to calculate proper water heater size: Determine your household’s peak hour demand by calculating water usage for showers, appliances, and faucets.

Signs of an undersized unit:

• Running out of hot water quickly
• Long recovery times between uses

Peak hour demand calculation: Add the total gallons needed during the busiest hour of the day. Match this figure to the water heater’s first-hour rating.

Temporary solutions for capacity issues:

• Limit simultaneous water use
• Install a point-of-use water heater for high-demand areas

6. Water Heater Leaking

Identifying the source of leaks: Inspect the tank, valves, and connections for visible drips or pooling water.

Common causes of tank leaks:

• Corrosion inside the tank
• Loose or damaged connections
• A faulty pressure relief valve

When leaks affect heating performance: Leaking water can disrupt heating efficiency and lead to system failure if not addressed promptly.

Temporary fixes vs. replacement needs: Seal small leaks with epoxy as a temporary fix. If the tank itself is compromised, replacement is often the only option.

Whether your water heater requires a simple fix or professional attention, understanding the root cause helps you take the right steps. Don’t let cold water disrupt your day—address the issue confidently and effectively.