Why Is My Water Heater Not Working? 🔥

There’s nothing quite like starting your morning with an unexpected cold shower. If your water heater suddenly stops working—or just isn’t performing like it used to—this guide is here to help.

We'll walk you through the most common water heater issues, what causes them, and how to troubleshoot (or fix) them safely.

🚿 Types of Water Heaters

Before you dive into fixes, it helps to know what kind of unit you have:

• Tank Water Heater (gas or electric): Heats and stores hot water in a tank.
• Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heater: Heats water only when needed, without storing it.
• Hybrid / Heat Pump Water Heater: More energy-efficient, but less common.

Each system has unique quirks and potential failure points—so we’ll cover both gas and electric issues where needed.

🔍 Problem 1: No Hot Water At All

✅ Possible Causes:

• Tripped circuit breaker (electric models)
• Pilot light out (gas models)
• Faulty heating element or thermostat
• Gas supply issue

🔧 What You Can Check:

• Electric: Check the breaker panel and reset if tripped. Test the upper thermostat for continuity.
• Gas: Look for the pilot light—if it's out, try relighting it (follow the instructions on the tank). If it won’t stay lit, the thermocouple may need replacement.

⚠️ If you smell gas, turn off the supply and call your utility company immediately.

💦 Problem 2: Water Isn’t Hot Enough

✅ Possible Causes:

• Thermostat set too low
• Broken lower heating element (electric)
• Sediment buildup in the tank
• Undersized unit for your household

🔧 Try This:

• Set thermostat to 120°F (49°C)
• Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup
• Upgrade your unit if you’re constantly running out of hot water

🛠 Problem 3: Strange Noises

✅ What You’re Hearing:

• Popping or rumbling noises often mean sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank.
• Whistling or high-pitched sounds could indicate a loose valve or a failing heating element.

🔧 What To Do:

• Flush the tank (DIY or hire a plumber)
• Check that temperature & pressure (T&P) relief valves are seated properly

💧 Problem 4: Leaking Water Heater

✅ Where to Check:

• Around the base of the tank
• Pipe connections at the top
• T&P relief valve

🔧 Quick Fixes:

• Tighten loose connections
• Replace leaking drain valves
• If the tank itself is leaking—it’s time for a new unit

⚠️ Pro Tip: Always shut off the water supply and power before inspecting or draining your water heater.

⚠️ Problem 5: Discolored or Smelly Water

✅ Likely Culprits:

• Rust = corroded anode rod or tank
• Rotten egg smell = bacteria reacting with the anode rod

🔧 What You Can Do:

• Replace the anode rod
• Flush the system with hydrogen peroxide solution (in mild cases)

🔥 Problem 6: Water Takes Too Long to Reheat

✅ What’s Going On:

• Sediment is insulating the heating elements
• Burners are dirty (in gas models)
• Heating elements are failing (in electric models)

🔧 Solution:

• Clean the burner assembly (gas)
• Test and replace worn elements (electric)
• Flush and descale tank

💡 Maintenance Tips to Avoid Future Issues

• Flush your tank once a year
• Test T&P valve twice a year
• Check anode rod every 2–3 years
• Install a leak detector for peace of mind

🧰 When to Call a Plumber

It’s time to bring in a pro if:

• You’ve tried basic fixes and still have no hot water
• You suspect a gas leak
• Your tank is leaking
• You need a full unit replacement

Mumma Plumbing connects you with licensed, local plumbers ready to help—day or night. Whether you need emergency repairs or a new high-efficiency upgrade, we’ve got your back.

☎️ Ready for Hot Water Again?

Call Mumma Plumbing at 1-877-853-6866
Or explore more DIY tips on our Plumbing Blog.