As temperatures keep dropping, it is more important than ever to have warm water in your home. A properly functioning water heater is something we often take for granted, but when issues arise, it is essential to recognize the problem and get everything back on track. If you are having problems with your water heater, we know it can be a huge inconvenience. Read on to learn more about why these issues can happen and how to keep your water heater running smoothly this winter season! 

Common Issues by Types of Water Heater 

There are two main types of water heaters that are commonly used in homes: electric and gas. While both serve the same purpose of heating water for domestic use, they work in different ways and require different installation and maintenance procedures. Therefore, it’s essential to know which type of water heater you have in your home so that you can properly operate and maintain it. Electric water heaters use electric heating elements to heat water, while gas water heaters use a burner that’s fueled by natural gas or propane. Knowing which type you have will also help you choose the right replacement parts if you need repairs or replacement. 

Electric Water Heater Common Problems 

If you find that your electric water heater isn’t working, there could be several reasons why it’s malfunctioning. The following are some of the common causes of an electric water heater not working:

  • One of the heating elements may not be working or could have blown out. Heating elements are responsible for heating the water in the tank, and if one or both of them are not functioning correctly, you will notice a decrease in the amount of hot water available. 
  • The thermostat that controls the temperature of the water in the tank may be malfunctioning, causing the water to be either too hot or too cold. 
  • A tripped breaker can also be the cause of the water heater not working. If the circuit that the water heater is connected to becomes overloaded, the breaker may trip, causing the power to the water heater to be cut off. 
  • There may be an emergency cut off switch that has been triggered, which typically indicates that there’s a more significant problem with the water heater. 
  • A leak inside the jacket of the water heater can cause water to drip onto the components and cause electrical problems. If you notice water around the water heater or any signs of leakage, it’s essential to have a professional inspect it as soon as possible. 

Common Issues with Gas Water Heaters 

When it comes to gas water heaters, there are several reasons why they may not be working correctly. Here are some of the most common causes of gas water heaters not working:

  • One of the most apparent causes could be a lack of gas, either because the gas has been shut off or because the propane tank has run out of gas. If this is the case, you will need to have the gas supply restored or replace the propane tank. 
  • A gas valve that isn’t operating correctly can also cause a gas water heater to malfunction. If the valve is faulty or damaged, it will need to be replaced by a professional. 
  • The pilot light may not be lit or won’t stay lit, which could be due to several reasons, such as a bad thermal couple/pile or thermal overload switch. These components are responsible for keeping the pilot light on and ensuring that the gas valve stays open. If they’re not working correctly, you may need to have them repaired or replaced. 
  • A blockage in the flue pipe can prevent the pilot light from staying on or shut the system down entirely. If the flue pipe is blocked, it can cause a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide gas in your home. Therefore, it’s essential to have a professional inspection and clear any blockages in the flue pipe as soon as possible. 

Tankless Water Heaters 

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and space-saving design. However, like any appliance, they can develop problems that may require professional attention. 

One of the signs that something is wrong with your tankless water heater is when it throws an error code. These codes can indicate a variety of issues, such as a faulty temperature sensor or a problem with the ignition system. In such cases, it’s essential to have a professional come and do diagnostics to identify the cause of the problem and recommend the necessary repairs. 

Attempting to fix a tankless water heater yourself can be dangerous and may result in further damage. Therefore, it’s best to leave any maintenance or repair work to qualified professionals who have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and effectively.

Are you experiencing issues with your water heater? 

We are here to help you solve any issue with your water heater, regardless of the root cause! Our team is available 24/7 and has been keeping the water running throughout homes in the Greater Indianapolis area for over 30 years. When you give Justin Dorsey Plumbing a call, know that we are on our way to help you fix any issues and restore the water temperature in your home quickly and efficiently. Your home is in good hands with us.