Why Is My Water Heater Not Making Hot Water?

Man repairing a water heater

When you turn on the faucet expecting a warm stream and get cold water instead, it’s more than a minor inconvenience—it’s a sign that something is wrong with your water heater. Living in Santa Rosa, having a reliable water heater is essential, especially during the cooler months.

If you’re facing issues with your heating system, understanding the common causes can be the first step toward solving them. This blog post will help you identify potential problems with your water heater and suggest when you might need to seek professional water heater repair in Santa Rosa.

If you are looking for water heater repair Santa Rosa, reach out to Santa Rosa Plumbing today. But first, let’s look at some of the common causes of water heater failure.

Common Causes of Water Heater Failures

There are several reasons why your water heater might be failing.

Faulty Heating Elements: Electric water heaters have heating elements that can burn out over time. If your water heater isn’t heating, one of the first components to check is the heating element.

Thermostat Issues: The thermostat controls the temperature of the water. If it is malfunctioning, it may not signal the heater to warm the water to the desired temperature.

Sediment Buildup: In areas with hard water, like Santa Rosa, sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the tank. This buildup can insulate the water from the heater’s burner or element, preventing adequate heating.

Gas Supply Problems: For gas water heaters, issues with the gas supply can prevent the unit from heating properly. This could be due to a closed control valve, a faulty thermocouple, or a problem with the pilot light.

Improper Settings: Sometimes, the issue can be as simple as the water heater being set to a temperature that’s too low. Check the thermostat setting to ensure it’s suitable for your needs.

Old Age: Water heaters typically have a lifespan of about 8-12 years. If yours is older, it may be less efficient or completely fail to heat your water.

Troubleshooting and Repair

Before you call for professional help, there are a few simple checks you can perform:

  • Ensure the unit is powered on and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
  • For gas water heaters, make sure the pilot light is lit.
  • Adjust the thermostat slightly to see if there is any change in water temperature.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it might be time to call a specialist in water heater repair in Santa Rosa. Professionals can provide a more thorough diagnosis and resolve issues that are not accessible or safe for untrained individuals to attempt to fix themselves.

Take the Plunge: Fix Your Hot Water Today!

Experiencing no hot water can disrupt your daily routine and comfort. If your water heater is failing, it’s important to address the issue promptly to restore your home’s functionality.

For residents in Santa Rosa, professional water heater repair services can provide quick and effective solutions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Santa Rosa Plumbing, a trusted plumber if you’re unable to resolve the problem on your own.

Remember, keeping your water heater in top condition not only ensures you have hot water when you need it but can also extend the life of your appliance. Contact Santa Rosa Plumbing today to get your water heater checked and repaired! Call us at (707) 544-FLOW.