What To Do When a Water Heater Is Not Heating

When you turn on your faucet or shower expecting warm water and you're met with icy cold water, it can be inconvenient and frustrating. The source of the problem could be something relatively simple to fix, such as a tripped circuit breaker, or it could be more complex, like a malfunctioning heating element. 

Discolored or smelly water from your hot water heater can be alarming, indicating potential issues within the system. The problem can occur suddenly or build up over time. Below, we list some of the most common causes and straightforward fixes for both tanked and tankless water heaters and provide tips for electric and gas models.

Common Causes and Fixes

• Bacterial Growth: This leads to smelly water, often described as a "rotten egg" smell. Fix: Flush the system with a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide. For persistent issues, increase the water temperature to 140 degrees F for a short period to kill bacteria, then return to a safer temperature.
• Deteriorating Sacrificial Anode Rod: When it is consumed, corrosion accelerates Fix: Inspect and replace the anode rod every year or as needed.

A damaged gas control or burner assembly in a gas water heater can significantly impact its efficiency and safety. Here’s what you need to know about identifying this issue and the steps you can take to resolve it.

Common Causes and Fixes

• Faulty Gas Control Valve: The gas control valve regulates the gas flow to the burner. A malfunction can lead to inadequate heating or failure to ignite. Fix: This component requires precise calibration and should be inspected and replaced by a professional if found to be defective.
• Clogged Burner Assembly: Dirt, debris or rust can clog the burner assembly, affecting the flame quality and heating efficiency. Fix: Turn off the gas and water supply, and carefully clean the burner assembly. For heavy buildup or damage, replacement by a professional is recommended.

Regular maintenance of your water heater is essential to avoid the raft of potential issues that could lead to inefficiency, safety hazards and costly repairs. Here's a condensed overview of the consequences of neglect and key maintenance tips.

Consequences of Neglect

• Reduced Efficiency: Sediment buildup reduces heating efficiency, increasing energy costs.
• Premature Failure: Corrosion and sediment can shorten the lifespan of the heater, leading to early replacement needs.
• Safety Risks: For gas heaters, poor maintenance can result in dangerous carbon monoxide production or fire hazards due to faulty gas connections.
• Water Quality Issues: bacterial growth, affecting water safety and can cause smells.
• Leak Risks: Increased risk of leaks and water damage from corrosion and sediment pressure.

Essential Maintenance Tips

• Annual Tank Flush: Removes sediment to maintain efficiency.
• Anode Rod Inspection/Replacement: Every year to prevent corrosion.
• Pressure Relief Valve Check: Ensures safety by preventing excessive pressure buildup.
• Gas Heater Checks: Include venting and gas line inspections for safety.
• Leak Inspections: Regularly check for signs of leaks or damage.

Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your water heater, keeps it running efficiently and ensures safe operation, saving you money and hassle in the long run. Learn more about Water Heater Maintenance.

Understanding that water heater issues can be a source of significant inconvenience, A. O. Smith offers an extensive array of resources aimed at demystifying water heater repairs for the average homeowner. From finding replacement parts to locating product resources by model, you'll find a wealth of helpful tools and resources on our website. Not sure where to start troubleshooting your system or feeling out of your depth? Find an A. O. Smith trusted service provider for a professional opinion.

There are times when a hot water heater not working calls for a replacement or upgrade. At A. O. Smith, we make choosing a hot water heater easier with our Water Heater Selector Tool. You can also search our directory of authorized, local professionals to install your new water heater for you. 

Are you experiencing issues with your water heater? Whether it's a lack of hot water, strange noises or any other fault, you don't have to tackle these challenges alone. A reliable solution is just a click away. 

Visit our directory of trusted providers to find a local expert who can diagnose and solve your water heater problems efficiently. With access to a network of certified professionals, you're sure to find the support you need to get your water heating system back to optimal performance. Don't let water heater troubles disrupt your day — help is closer than you think.