Hot Water Heater Not Working? 10 Common Problems & Fixes

Here is the list of the ten most common water heater problems and quick solutions for each:

1. No Hot Water:
   1. Electric Water Heater: Check the circuit breaker in the electrical panel to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If it has, reset it once. If it trips again, stop and hire a licensed electrician.
   2. Gas Water Heater: Check whether the pilot light is lit (newer models light electronically and need power). If it is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If the heater shows an error code or a flashing status light, look it up in our Rinnai or Rheem error code list. If you smell gas, leave the building and call your gas supplier from outside.
2. Not Enough Hot Water: Check the thermostat setting on the water heater. If it is set low, raise it in small steps and no higher than 120°F: the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends 120°F to prevent scalding (per the Department of Energy’s Building America Solution Center), and State Water Heaters says water at 140°F can burn adult skin in under 5 seconds. Also, consider factors like increased demand or sediment buildup in the tank.
3. Leaking Water: Inspect all connections and fittings for leaks. Tighten any loose connections. If water is coming from the tank itself, turn off the power or gas and the cold water supply to the heater and call a licensed plumber. State Water Heaters notes that many suspected leaks turn out to be condensation, a loose fitting or the relief valve rather than the tank.
4. Strange Noises: Popping or rumbling noises may indicate sediment buildup in the tank. Flushing the tank can help remove sediment and improve performance. Rheem recommends flushing once a year, or every 6 months with hard water. If the tank has not been flushed in years, call a plumber, because flushing a neglected tank can cause leaks.
5. Rusty or Discolored Water: Sediment buildup or corrosion in the tank can lead to rusty water. Flushing the tank can help. If the issue persists, the anode rod may need replacement (Rheem says every 3 to 4 years), or the tank may be corroding, which Rheem lists as a sign to replace the heater.
6. Pressure Relief Valve Issues: If the pressure relief valve is leaking or dripping, it may need to be replaced, but dripping can also come from thermal expansion or high water pressure, so never plug the valve. Test it by hand once a year with nobody in front of the discharge pipe, because the water can be extremely hot. Be cautious, as this valve is an important safety feature.
7. Smelly Water: A rotten egg smell is usually caused by harmless bacteria reacting with the anode rod, according to State Water Heaters. Flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod may help.
8. Water Temperature Issues: If the water temperature is inconsistent, check the thermostat and adjust it. If the thermostat is faulty, it may need replacement. Turn off the power at the breaker before opening an electric heater’s access panel, or hire a licensed plumber or electrician.
9. Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency. Flushing the tank periodically can help prevent this issue.
10. Thermal Expansion Issues: Thermal expansion can cause pressure buildup. Consider installing an expansion tank to alleviate pressure and prevent damage to the water heater. A plumber can install it, and State Water Heaters says a relief valve that weeps may be a sign of thermal expansion.

For any water heater issues that you’re unable to resolve on your own, or if you’re unsure about the cause of the problem, it’s recommended to seek the assistance of a professional plumber or technician. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues can help extend the life of your water heater.