Good quality water heaters usually last for over six years, but they are prone to have problems at any moment. It is a common grievance from homeowners that their heater fails to heat the water. Water heater not heating is a major issue since it is the main objective of having a heater at your place.
Whether it is a brand-new heater or an old one, remember that the problem of not heating water can arise with any heater. So, if you don’t want to deprive yourself of hot water, find out why it happens and how this matter can be solved. Moreover, this article will also tell you what you can do to prevent the water heater from not heating.
Before we determine the cause and look for the solution, it is necessary to verify if the hot water is not there anywhere in the house or if you are facing this problem with particular faucets. If it’s about a particular area, the problem might not be with the water heater. Inspect the valves and the pipes, and you will sort out the matter.
However, if there is no hot water in any fixture connected to the heater, then chances are the issues lie within the water heater.
Why is my water heater not heating?
There can be several reasons for a water heater malfunction, but if it’s not heating, the reason is obvious, and it is that the heat is not being supplied. This happens when the heating element of the heater gives up.
Aside from broken heating elements, the other possible reason for the water heater not heating includes a malfunctioned gas valve, thermocouple, or when the pilot light shuts off.
Water consists of many different parts, and each of them plays a crucial role. The water heater gas valve and the thermocouple are directly linked to the issue of the water heater not heating. Aside from these two elements, the water heater may face an issue when any other elements break down. In some cases, a repair would do the job, but sometimes, you have to go for replacement options.
In addition, if the water heater isn’t heating due to a broken or damaged heating component, then an energy supply issue may be the cause. Be it a gas heater or an electric, make certain that the power supply is not shut off or is fluctuating.
What to do if your water heater is not heating?
No hot water is a serious issue since you need warm water for daily use, especially in cold seasons. It becomes more important when you have children or elderly at your home.
As we have discussed the possible reasons for this failure, we are going to inspect our water heater and will try to find out the exact problem.
Starting with the pilot light, if it’s out, you need to relight it and check if it is working.
Make sure that the gas is supplied uninterruptedly, and in the case of an electric heater, do ensure the power is on.
Generally, the problem will be solved by now as most of the time; this problem occurs due to the pilot light going out. However, if not resolved, you need to check on the gas valve. At the same time, also check the thermocouple and certify it’s working accurately.
If we put this in order, below are the points you are required to check for.
- The water heater pilot light and the burner
- The thermocouple
- The gas valve
Inspecting these three elements will help you fix the issue of the water heater not heating.
In case the problem persists, do call a professional for the job and let them address the issue.
Remember that there is no upright technique that you can apply to prevent your water heater from going through this, but a check on its maintenance can go a long way. Just like any other electric or gas equipment, the water heater also needs to be adequately maintained, and it is the only way you can avoid having minor issues.
Conclusion
It serves no purpose to have a water heater if you don’t get hot water. However, this does not also mean abandoning the subject, but you need to look for the cause behind the water heater not heating.
The three most important elements you need to check are the burner, the thermocouple, and the gas valve, in addition to ensuring that the energy is being supplied sufficiently. Once you detect where the issue lies, it will be easier to fix.
So, if your water heater does not heat up next time, you know what might be the reason. So, do try to fix it yourself, and you might be lucky this time.