Water Heater Frequently Asked Questions

No Hot Water? Common Water Heater Problems & Solutions

• Phones answered 24/7 so you can talk to a licensed water heater plumber anytime
• Covers the most common no-hot-water issues, such as, pilot light, thermocouple, gas control valve, and more
• Troubleshooting steps included for both gas and electric water heaters
• Warranty help, most units carry a 6-year manufacturer warranty; manufacturer contact numbers included
• Lukewarm water diagnosis and covers sediment buildup, dip tube issues, and heating element failures
• Call (424) 222-9925 to get an expert diagnosis or schedule fast service

If your water heater has stopped producing hot water, don’t worry. Many common water heater problems can be identified with a few simple troubleshooting steps. Below are answers to the questions our water heater experts receive most often.

If these steps don’t solve the problem, call Water Heaters Only, Inc. at (424) 222-9925 to speak with a licensed water heater plumber 24 hours a day.

My Water Heater Has No Hot Water

Possible Cause: The Pilot Light Has Gone Out

If you have a gas water heater, the pilot light may have gone out. Most water heaters include relighting instructions printed directly above the gas control valve.

Solution:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight the pilot.
• Wait for the water heater to complete a heating cycle.

If your hot water returns, you’re all set. If the pilot won’t stay lit, continue below.

My Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Possible Cause: A Faulty Thermocouple or Pilot Assembly

The thermocouple is a safety device that detects the pilot flame. When it fails, it shuts off the gas supply and prevents the pilot from remaining lit.

Solution:

• Replace the thermocouple or pilot assembly, depending on your water heater model.
• Before purchasing parts, check whether your water heater is still under the manufacturer’s warranty.

If you’re not comfortable replacing these components yourself, contact a professional water heater technician.

Find Your Water Heater’s Model & Serial Number

Before calling for service, locate your water heater’s model number and serial number on the manufacturer’s rating plate.

Having this information available allows us to identify the correct replacement parts, verify warranty coverage, and help diagnose your problem more quickly.

(Insert manufacturer’s rating plate image here.)

Is My Water Heater Still Under Warranty?

Many residential water heaters include a 6-year manufacturer’s warranty, while some models offer longer coverage.

Contact your manufacturer with your model and serial number to verify your warranty and locate an authorized warranty service provider.

Manufacturer Phone Numbers

• Rheem / Ruud / GE — 1-800-432-8373
• American — 1-800-215-5130
• State / Kenmore — 1-800-695-2761.
• A.O. Smith — 1-800-527-1953
• Bradford White — 1-800-523-2931

Additional Water Heater Troubleshooting

The Pilot Lights, But Goes Out Again Later

Possible Cause

If the pilot stays lit long enough to heat the tank but goes out after the burner shuts off, the problem is often a faulty gas control valve or burner assembly.

Solution

A licensed water heater plumber should test the gas control valve. If it has failed, it should be replaced. If the gas control valve tests properly, the burner assembly may need replacement.

I Replaced the Gas Control Valve, But Still Have No Hot Water

Possible Cause

If replacing the gas control valve didn’t solve the problem, the issue may involve:

• Insufficient combustion air
• Venting problems
• Airflow restrictions
• Another failed component

Although replacement parts can occasionally be defective, this is uncommon.

Solution

A complete inspection by a qualified water heater technician is recommended to identify the underlying problem safely.

Lukewarm Water Problems

Gas Water Heater Produces Lukewarm Water

Possible Causes

If your water is warm but never gets fully hot, the water heater may not actually be the primary problem.

Common causes include:

• A plumbing crossover allowing cold water to mix with hot water
• A faulty mixing valve
• Heavy sediment buildup inside the tank
• A damaged or broken dip tube

Solution

A technician may recommend:

• Testing a dedicated hot-water faucet nearest the water heater
• Flushing sediment from the tank
• Replacing the dip tube if necessary
• Diagnosing plumbing crossover or mixing valve issues

Electric Water Heater Produces Lukewarm Water

Possible Cause

Electric water heaters use upper and lower heating elements along with thermostats. If one component fails, the water may become only lukewarm instead of fully hot.

Solution

The heating elements and thermostats should be tested with the proper equipment. Replace any failed components or contact a licensed water heater professional for service.

Need Water Heater Repair?

Whether your water heater has no hot water, the pilot light won’t stay lit, or you’re dealing with inconsistent water temperatures, Water Heaters Only, Inc. is here to help.

Our licensed water heater plumbers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your questions, troubleshoot your water heater, or schedule fast, professional service.

Call (424) 222-9925 today to speak with a water heater expert.