No Hot Water? 5 Causes and What to Do

Your water heater is a critical part of your day, whether you’re taking a shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry. So when your hot water isn’t working, your whole routine gets thrown off.

Sutton Brothers is pleased to bring quality plumbing to our North Carolina customers, as well as unmatched heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services. Here are five likely reasons why you suddenly have no hot water in your Kernersville home.

Efficiency is Key

We’re always looking to find the most efficient solutions for homeowners in Kernersville and surrounding communities. Heating water makes up about 20 percent of the energy use in your home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Schedule an in-home assessment today to learn about ways to curb your energy usage.

Two Causes and Solutions for Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters use an electric heating component to warm your water. Here are two common reasons why these tanks stop working:

1. Power Surges
    Power surges can interrupt electric water heaters’ ability to warm your water. In this case, Sutton Brothers recommends resetting your tank. Try turning it off and waiting for half an hour before powering it back on.

2. Short Circuiting or Wiring Issues
    Various electrical issues can cause your circuit breaker to cut off the electrical current. Even if the switch doesn’t appear to be tripped, try resetting it. If it continues to turn off, or this doesn’t fix the problem for any reason, call Sutton Brothers for a repair.

Three Causes and Solutions for Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heaters warm your water through combustion. Here are three common causes why they stop working:

3. Pilot Light Out
    The pilot light is a continuously burning flame. It starts the ignition process to heat your water. If your pilot light is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. However, have a professional inspect it if the light continues to go out each time you reignite it.

4. Broken Thermocouple
    The thermocouple is a safety device. It uses thermal imaging to detect heat from the flame. If the flame goes out, the thermocouple directs the gas supply to shut off. In many cases, a pilot light that continues to shut off is a sign of a broken thermocouple. If this is the issue, a professional must repair or replace it.

5. Problems with the Gas Supply
    There could be an issue with your gas supply. If other gas appliances such as your furnace or gas stove aren’t working, this is a pretty good indicator. Ensure that your gas valve is set to “On,” and inspect your gas line for any kinks or blockages. Additionally, check to see if your North Carolina utility provider is making any repairs in the area.

Call Today for Quality HVAC and Plumbing Assistance in Your Area

Sutton Brothers is proud to provide unmatched heating, cooling, and plumbing service to our neighbors in Kernersville, NC, and its surrounding communities. Need assistance? Call us today at 336-390-3902 or request service online.