Imagine this: You wake up, eager for a steaming hot shower to kickstart your day. But as you turn the knob, only a blast of cold water greets you. No hot water? It’s a recipe for shivers! Don’t worry, though! Before you resign yourself to lukewarm showers, this guide is here to help. With troubleshooting tips for common “gas hot water not working” issues, you’ll be back to enjoying hot showers in no time.
Is your gas hot water heater not working at all?
A complete lack of hot water is a telltale sign that there might be an issue with your gas hot water heater. Here are the main culprits:
- The pilot light: This tiny flame keeps burning to light the gas that heats your water. If it goes out, your heater won’t work.
- The gas supply valve is turned off: Check the gas valve to your heater for leaks and make sure it’s fully open.
Are you experiencing other issues?
Here some other problems you might encounter with your gas hot water heater:
- Leaking tank: A leak from your hot water heater’s tank is a serious issue that can cause the entire gas hot water system to stop working. If you suspect a leak., it is safe to switch off the gas and water supply.
- Low water pressure: Low water pressure in your home is not very often but it can also cause your gas hot water heater not to perform efficiently.
What information do you need before troubleshooting a gas hot water heater that’s not working?
Before tinkering with your gas hot water heater, safety is most important. Gas appliances can be dangerous if not handled properly, so it’s crucial to follow gas safety regulations. Here’s what you need to know:
- Turn off the gas supply valve: Turn off the gas to your heater. Find the big knob or handle that controls the gas flow – that’s the main valve. If it’s locked, give it a twist to unlock it. Then, turn that knob or handle until you hear a click (that means the gas is off).
- Let the water heater cool down: Allow it to cool for several hours before you proceed with the procedure.
How to relight your pilot light safely
In most gas water heaters, the pilot light is used to turn on the burners for use in heating water. Here’s how to relight it safely):
- Find the pilot light assembly: This is usually located near the bottom of the water heater. Search for a small flame or compare one of the metal squares to the ‘peephole’ in the furnace door.
- Turn the gas control valve to “pilot”: This creates enough passage of raw gas to the pilot light.
- Light the pilot: To fire the stove with gas, carefully light the gas, using a long-necked lighter, following the instructions given in your manual.
- Release and observe: Once you’ve held the knob in (if applicable), slowly release it and observe if the pilot light stays lit. If it goes out, repeat the process, checking for clogged pilot orifices or a faulty thermocouple.
Could your thermostat be the reason for your gas hot water not working?
Your water heater’s thermostat controls the water temperature. It’s a common culprit behind hot water issues. Here’s how to inspect it:
- Locate the thermostat: It is usually in the form of a dial or a knob situated outside the water heater.
- Turn up the thermostat: After setting the thermostat slowly try to bring it to the required temperature when the water is being heated. If the water takes much time to heat up then the thermostat you used might be faulty.
When is it advisable to contact a professional plumber?
While some troubleshooting steps can be tackled by homeowners, there are situations where it’s best to call in a licenced plumber:
- Gas leak suspicion: If you smell gas near your water heater, Turn off the gas supply valve immediately and open windows and doors to develop cross-ventilation.
- Discoloured water: If your hot water is rusty or discoloured, there could be internal rusting of the tank or the water within it. This can pollute your water source and would need the intervention of a plumber in order to be assessed.
- No ignition or frequent pilot light issues: If you follow the proper procedures and can’t re-ignite the pilot light or, it shuts off repeatedly, there might be an issue with the ignition system, thermocouple, or gas valve.
- Electrical issues: If your water heater has electronic controls and you suspect an electrical problem, don’t try to fix it yourself by messing with the wiring. Turn off the gas and electrical supply to the unit and ensure all gas appliances are properly turned off.
How do you keep your gas water heater running smoothly?
Here are some tips to avoid future problems:
- Schedule regular maintenance: It is wiser to get a professional plumber to inspect and service it at least, once every 2 years or twice a year. This can help in analysing whether the problem is a potential threat and might lead to significant consequences.
- Adjust the thermostat setting: In summer, consider alternative methods to reduce hot water usage, like taking shorter showers, to help reduce energy costs on your hot water heater.
To learn more about gas water heater maintenance and extend the lifespan of your appliance, you can consult resources provided by your gas supplier or manufacturer, or reach out to a licensed plumber for professional guidance.
Keeping your hot water flowing
All in all, this guide equips you to tackle common gas hot water heater problems with troubleshooting steps, safety precautions, and preventative maintenance tips. Empowered with this knowledge, you can fix minor issues and know when to call in a pro. Don’t let a cold shower surprise you! Contact Sydney Hot Water Systems for expert gas hot water repairs and maintenance, and get a free quote today.