Living without hot showers can be quite a challenge. Imagine having a hectic day and coming home, eager to unwind, only to find your hot water system acting out. It would be a long, frustrating ordeal. Therefore, ensuring continuous access to warm water is invaluable.
In addition to providing the perfect end to stressful days, hot water has many other uses. It provides relief from colds, coughs, muscle fatigue and joint stiffness. However, to take advantage of these benefits, you need a heater that works smoothly. After all, let’s face it: a slow, inconsistent heater can be just as frustrating as no heater at all. So, why is my hot water not working? The reasons can vary—whether it’s a malfunctioning heater, a tripped circuit breaker, a broken thermostat, or even sediment buildup in the tank. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons behind hot water failures and help you troubleshoot the problem.
Common Problems with Hot Water Systems
Like any other system, water heaters can run into a host of issues that trigger malfunctioning or total failure. Below, we’ve listed possible causes for your hot water system not working as usual:
Pilot Light or Ignition Trouble
Typically located at the base of a heater, this is one of the first things a plumber will check when fixing your unit. The pilot light is responsible for burning the fuel that provides heat to a heating system. There are many reasons why it may go out. Gas pressure changes, a worn-out thermocouple, drafts of air, and a lack of combustible material are all possible culprits. Modern systems have replaced the pilot light with spark igniters and require a professional plumber for repairs.
Gas Leakage
Gas-fired heaters can only work with a constant supply of natural gas or propane. A gas leak, whether it occurs due to a faulty valve or loose connection, affects the heater. More importantly, it poses a serious threat to life, health, and property. Some common signs of a gas leak include the smell of rotten eggs, hissing sounds, visible damage to the gas line, and so on.
If you suspect a gas leak, the first step is to cut off the gas supply. Open the windows and ventilate the area as much as possible. Once you’re a safe distance away from the suspected leak, call a qualified plumber for hot water system repair.Leaks in the System
The heating system or the attached plumbing may have leaks. This includes the pipes going into and coming out of the heater as well as the pressure relief valve. Besides wasting precious water, such leaks can result in water damage as well as reduced efficacy. You will need to turn off the water supply first, inspect the source of the leak, and contain it with a bucket or rag.
In some cases, you might be able to reverse the leak on your own. For example, smaller cracks can be repaired using DIY methods. If the damage is extensive, it’s better to call a licensed plumber for a hot water system service.Sediment Accumulation
Many regions of Australia have a hard water problem, leading to hot water not working as it should. Sediments and minerals tend to build up in the heater over time, insulating the gas burner from the water. In the end, your system uses extra resources for the same amount of heating while getting worse with each use.
If you notice a drop in the water pressure, fluctuating temperature, or muddy water, check for accumulated sediment in the water tank. Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank once or twice a year, keeps the heater in good condition.A Defective Thermostat
A thermostat regulates temperature in gas and electric water heaters. The ideal temperature is anywhere between 122 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit for effective and energy-efficient operation. So, if your hot water supply is not working or overheating, the thermostat setting might be incorrect or the device may be damaged.
This means that your heater is no longer regulating the water at the desired temperature. Try turning the switch off and on again as well as resetting the thermostat. If that doesn’t help, the device is likely damaged and may require a hot water system replacement.Weather-induced Corrosion
No hot water system is completely immune to all the salt content in the air. It is an excellent catalyst for external and internal corrosion. When exposed to excess salt and other corrosive elements in the environment, the machine’s structural integrity may get weaker due to rust. Ultimately, this can result in water leaks, system damage and inadequate hot water supply. With regular maintenance, this can be avoided and your water heater’s lifespan gets prolonged.
How to Fix Hot Water System Issues
Whether you own a gas or electric water heater, the truth is modern systems are quite complex. As such, an in-depth understanding is necessary to perform hot water system repairs. However, that doesn’t mean you need to run to a professional at the slightest hint of trouble. There are some things you can do to fix minor issues, such as:
- Checking the thermostat if the temperature fluctuates
- Checking the electricity supply or gas line
- Make sure the pilot light is on (if you have an older model of water heater)
- Cutting off the power supply in the event of a leak
In case you have trouble dealing with the problem, you should contact professional plumbers, like VCM Plumbing. We understand how time-sensitive water heater problems can be. That’s why we are at your service, 24/7, to deal with any hot water emergency.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Hot Water Problems in the Future
Here are a few easy tips you can follow to maintain an uninterrupted supply of hot water all year long:
Regular Inspections
This is an obvious one that tends to fly under the radar for many. Scheduling periodic hot water system service by a qualified plumber can prevent almost every hot water problem. The expert will check for leaks, sediment buildup, heating element failure and malfunctioning valves.
Flushing Out Sediment
This is a great DIY exercise because it’s relatively easy. All you need to do is drain the heater tank once a year if you get a soft water supply, and at least four times a year for hard water. It prevents sedimentation of the tanks and any problems that may arise after that.
Improving Water Quality
Installing a water softener on your faucets and shower heads is an effective step. It can eliminate a major root cause of hot water problems while improving its quality.
DIY Solutions Vs Calling a Professional Plumber
As a homeowner, it can be tempting to try and solve every issue around the house yourself. This is true especially if you’ve identified the problem and know your way around it. However, if your hot water system has stopped working, there’s only so much you can do without professional expertise.
VCM Plumbing is one of the leading plumbing company in Melbourne. We take great pride in our work, keeping every customer nice and warm in their homes. Whether it’s a gas leak, thermostat malfunction, or burst pipes we specialise in fast and highly effective hot water system repairs. We have garnered a reputation for delivering high-quality services thanks to the following reasons:
- Complete range of plumbing services
- Experienced team with licenced plumbers
- Hi-tech equipment and tools
- 24/7 Emergency Plumbing available
- Competitive prices
To book an appointment with an expert regarding your gas or electric hot water system, call us on 0438 073 355 or email us at info@vcmplumbing.com.au