Water Heater Not Working? What to Check First
If your water heater isn’t working, it’s easy to assume the worst, but many water heater issues start with something simple. Before scheduling a repair, there are a few things you can check yourself that may help you understand what’s going on or at least give your technician a head start. This guide from Diamond L walks you through what to check first when a water heater isn’t working.
Start With the Basics
When a water heater isn’t working, it’s worth ruling out the simplest explanations before assuming a major repair is needed.
Check the power supply
For electric water heaters, check your home's circuit breaker panel to see if the breaker for the water heater has tripped. For gas water heaters, confirm the unit is receiving gas and that any shutoff valve on the gas line is fully open.
Check the thermostat setting
If the water isn't hot enough rather than not heating at all, the thermostat may simply be set too low. Most water heaters have a temperature dial or digital control near the bottom of the tank.
Check for a tripped reset button
Many electric water heaters have a red reset button, usually located near the upper thermostat, that can trip and cut power to the heating element.
If You Have a Gas Water Heater
Gas water heaters have a few additional things worth checking first:
Check the pilot light
If the pilot light has gone out, the water heater won't produce hot water. Many units have instructions printed on the tank for safely relighting the pilot.
Check for error codes
flashing indicator light. Many modern gas water heaters have a small window or indicator light that flashes an error code, which can help identify the issue.
Check that the gas valve is fully ope
A partially closed gas valve can prevent the water heater from working properly.
Sediment Buildup and Water Heater Performance
Over time, minerals naturally present in water can settle at the bottom of a water heater tank, forming sediment. This buildup can reduce heating efficiency, cause popping or rumbling noises, and, if left unaddressed, shorten the lifespan of the unit. Routine maintenance, such as periodically flushing the tank, can help prevent sediment from becoming a bigger issue down the road.
When to Call a Professional
While checking the breaker, thermostat, or pilot light is something most homeowners can safely do, some water heater issues call for a professional. It’s time to call for help if:
- The circuit breaker keeps tripping after you reset it
- The pilot light won’t stay lit after multiple attempts
- You smell gas near the water heater
- You notice water pooling around the base of the tank
- The water heater is making unusual noises, such as popping or rumbling
- The unit is more than 8 to 12 years old and showing signs of failure
Why Homeowners Choose Diamond L
When a water heater isn’t working and the basic checks haven’t solved the problem, Diamond L is here to help homeowners diagnose the issue and get hot water restored safely and efficiently.
Schedule a Water Heater Inspection
If your water heater still isn’t working after checking the basics, Diamond L can help. Contact Diamond L today to schedule a water heater inspection for your home.