Why Won’t My Home’s Water Get Hot?

Is there anything more frustrating than turning on the faucet or shower and getting a blast of cold water when you expect it to be hot? Nobody would be happy to find themselves without hot water. It seems to always happen at the most inconvenient times too. Don’t panic though – in most cases, it’s an easy fix. The professionals at Clarke & Rush have seen it all when it comes to water heater troubles, and we’re here to help you get the hot water flowing again. Read ahead to learn the common causes of water not getting hot in your home!

Weather Can Lead to Cooler Water Temperature

During the cold winter months, your water heater has to work harder to heat up cold water coming into the tank. Additionally, the unit itself exists in a colder environment which impacts its internal temperature. The combination of these factors may result in water that doesn’t feel as hot as usual. Turning up the temperature on your hot water heater one notch is often all that’s needed to restore hotter water. Just don’t go over 120°F for safety reasons, especially if you have young children or elderly residents. And contrary to popular belief, putting a blanket around your hot water heater will not help – it’s already insulated and a blanket could hide leaks. Be sure to turn the temperature back down once warmer weather returns so you don’t end up with scalding hot water. If you need help adjusting your hot water heater temperature, the experts at Clarke & Rush are happy to assist.

A Broken Dip Tube Means Cold Water Infiltration

Ever wonder how your tank water heater can provide hot water when it’s constantly being refilled with cold? Thank your dip tube – it directs the cold water to the bottom of the tank while hot water rises to the top. When the dip tube breaks, cold water enters the top of the tank which leads to reduced hot water. Signs of a broken dip tube include a sudden drop in hot water temperature or frigid cold water coming out of faucets and showers. Replacing the dip tube will get your hot water flowing properly again. Our technicians at Clarke & Rush can diagnose dip tube issues and take care of the repair.

Inspect Gas Valves and Lines in Gas Water Heaters

If you have a gas water heater, inspect the gas valve and lines for any leaks which could prevent the burner from getting enough gas to properly heat the water. Signs of a gas leak include a rotten egg smell or the scent of garbage. Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous, so if you detect a leak, leave the area immediately and contact your gas utility company immediately to report it. Do not try to fix a gas leak yourself. The gas company will need to repair the leak before your hot water heater can safely operate again.

Check Electric Water Heater Heating Elements

For electric water heaters, insufficient hot water could mean you have a failed heating element. Electric water heaters work using heating elements submerged in the tank to heat the water. Over time, these elements can fail. If your electric water heater lacks hot water, turn off power to the unit and remove the access panel. Check if the upper and lower heating elements are working by tapping them with a non-conductive object to see if they appear damaged or corroded. If so, they likely need professional replacement.

Flush Sediment from the Tank

Hard water can leave sediment deposits that build up in the bottom of your tank over time. This can reduce the efficiency of your hot water heater and limit hot water output. Every year or so, flush out the tank to clear sediment. Turn off power to the heater, connect a hose to the drain valve, open a hot water faucet to release pressure, then open the drain valve to flush. Close everything back up once water runs clear through the hose.

Consider Upgrading Tank Size

If your hot water heater constantly runs out of hot water too quickly, it may be too small for your household’s needs. Older hot water heaters tend to be smaller in capacity. Consider upgrading to a larger tank if yours cannot keep up with demand. Getting a professional consultation can help determine the right tank size for your home’s requirements.

Replace Old Water Heaters

The average hot water heater lasts 10-15 years. If your unit is near or past its expected lifespan, frequent breakdowns likely mean it’s time to replace the entire system. Newer models are larger and more energy efficient. Or consider a tankless water heater which heats on demand rather than storing hot water.

Check Pilot Light Color

For gas hot water heaters, inspect the pilot light flame color. It should burn bright blue. A yellow or orange flame can indicate issues with gas flow or combustion and should be addressed right away.

Consider Tankless Water Heater

When replacing an older unit, look into tankless/on-demand water heaters. Though more expensive upfront, they heat water instantly as needed, last over 20 years, and parts are repairable.

Clogged Air Intake Screen Stops Hot Water Production

Gas water heaters rely on an air intake screen to facilitate combustion while keeping out debris and dust. When the screen gets clogged or blocked, it prevents air from reaching the burner and shuts down the flame. Lack of maintenance is often the culprit behind clogged air intake screens. Annual professional cleaning is recommended to avoid buildup. Not properly maintaining the screen can permanently damage your water heater and void the warranty. The pros at Clarke & Rush can examine your air intake screen during annual maintenance to prevent problems down the road. If it’s already clogged, we can attempt to clean it or discuss replacement options if necessary.

Shower Cartridge Buildup Reduces Hot Water

Do you get hot water from faucets but only cold from your shower? Mineral deposits from hard water can clog shower cartridges and prevent access to hot water. Water crossover when faulty seals allow cold to mix with hot before it reaches the shower head can also reduce hot water. Clarke & Rush will methodically diagnose your shower valves and cartridges. We can provide cleaning services or cartridge replacement as needed to get your shower hot water working again.

Electrical and Pilot Light Issues Shut Down Hot Water

Strong winds can blow out pilot lights, especially on water heaters located near drafty areas. Electrical problems like blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers will also cut power and shut off electric and tankless water heaters. The pilot light assembly can fail on any unit. Even slab leaks draining away hot water are possibilities. Don’t go without hot water for long – the service technicians at Clarke & Rush have extensive training in diagnosing all types of water heater malfunctions. We’ll pinpoint the exact cause and take care of repairs quickly and professionally.

Thermocouple Problems

Gas water heaters rely on a thermocouple to shut off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. This safety device can fail over time. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, the thermocouple may need adjustment or replacement. Our technicians can troubleshoot thermocouple issues.

Sediment Buildup Reduces Efficiency

Years of water mineral deposits settling at the bottom of the tank can reduce heating efficiency. Flush out sediment periodically by draining the tank. Turn off power, connect a hose to the drain valve, open a hot water tap to release pressure, drain, then refill once water runs clear.

Water Heater Age Matters

The average water heater lasts 10-15 years. Old tanks tend to be smaller and prone to failure. Consider proactively replacing older units. Newer models are larger, more reliable, and energy efficient.

Call the Experts for Repairs

Don’t wait to call Clarke & Rush if your water heater stops providing hot water. Our licensed technicians have the skills to diagnose any hot water heater problem. We’ll troubleshoot the issue and discuss repair or replacement options.

Trust Clarke & Rush For Water Heater Solutions in Sacramento

As you can see, there are a number of common issues that can prevent you from getting hot water when you need it. At Clarke & Rush, our seasoned experts have the skills and experience to get your hot water flowing again quickly. Contact us today to schedule service – we’re ready to help! We offer expert and comprehensive water heater repair,  replacement, installation, assessment, and maintenance services. Clarke & Rush serve homes and businesses in the greater Sacramento area, including Roseville, Elk Grove, Arden-Arcade, West Sacramento, Davis, Rocklin, Antelope, North Highlands, Foothill Farms, Orangevale, Rancho Cordova, Folsom, Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, and Rosemont. To schedule your appointment, you have two convenient options – book online by using our website, or call our office directly to speak with one of our friendly staff members who can assist you.