No hot water? Quick checks before you call
Losing hot water is not always a failed heater. A few safe checks can tell you what is going on, or at least what to tell the plumber.
Gas water heaters
- Check whether the pilot light is lit, following the instructions on the heater’s label
- Make sure the gas valve to the heater is open
- Check that the vent on top of the heater is connected and clear
Electric water heaters
- Check the breaker for the water heater in your electrical panel
- Look for a tripped reset button behind the heater’s access panel — only if you are comfortable doing so with the power off
Tankless units
Many tankless units show an error code on the front panel. Write it down — it tells the plumber a lot before they arrive. Scale buildup from skipped descaling is a common reason for temperature problems on tankless heaters.
If you smell gas, see water around the tank, or the relief valve is discharging, stop checking and call.
When to call
If the checks do not restore hot water, or anything looks wrong, call. We repair gas, electric, tank and tankless water heaters, and we will tell you on the phone what to shut off in the meantime. Request service or call for a same-day visit when the schedule allows.
