Quick Fixes – Water Heater

Problem: There is no hot water. (Gas Water Heater)

  • Check the pilot light. If it’s out, relight carefully or contact your gas company to have the pilot light re-lit, free of charge.
  • Make sure the gas controls are turned ON, all the way up. Make sure it’s connected to the gas control unit. Put it near the pilot flame.
  • Check the thermocouple. Replace if necessary.

Problem: There is no hot water. (Electric Water Heater)

  • Check the fuse box/circuit breaker. If the water heater repeatedly blows fuses, contact a professional electrician.
  • Push the reset button to test the heating elements and thermostats.
  • Test the heating elements and replace if they aren’t not working properly.
  • If these steps don’t solve the problem, contact a professional.

Problem: There is not enough hot water. (Gas Water Heater)

  • Turn up the thermostat.
  • Add insulation around the hot water pipes.

Problem: There is not enough hot water. (Electric Water Heater)

  • Turn up the thermostat.
  • Contact a qualified professional to have a larger water heater installed.

Problem: The water heater leaks at the flush/drain valve or at the top.

  • The connection between the valve and the water heater may be loose. Tighten the connection.
  • To avoid future leaks, install a PVC cap over the drain opening.

Problem: Water heater makes a clanking noise.

Drain the water heater to flush out sediment build-up.

Problem: Water heater makes a sizzling sound.

This is completely normal; condensation is dripping onto the burner. Disregard the noise. Your water heater is working properly.

Problem: Water is not hot enough.

  • Turn up the thermostat a little.
  • If the thermostat is already at its highest setting, drain the water heater.