5 Common Water Heater Problems and Solutions: Follow Our Guide

A reliable water heater is one of those modern conveniences we often take for granted − until something goes wrong.

Whether it’s a cold shower on a winter morning or a puddle of water around your tank, water heater issues can throw your routine into chaos. The good news? Most common water heater problems have straightforward solutions, especially if you catch them early.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through five of the most common water heater problems and how to fix them. From no hot water to strange noises, we’ll help you troubleshoot like a pro. Plus, we’ll share tips on when it’s time to call in the experts.

Ready to get your water heater back in working order? Let’s get started.

1. No Hot Water

Few things are as inconvenient as turning on the tap and getting nothing but cold water. If your water heater isn’t producing any hot water, it’s likely due to one of these common issues:

Power or gas supply issues:
- For electric water heaters, a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse could be cutting power to the unit.
- For gas water heaters, check if the pilot light is out or if there’s a problem with the gas supply.
Faulty thermostat:
- If the thermostat isn’t working, your water heater won’t know when to heat the water.
Broken heating element or burner:
- Electric heaters rely on heating elements, while gas heaters use burners. If these components are damaged, no hot water will be produced.

How to Fix It:

Check your circuit breaker or gas supply and restore power or gas if needed.
Relight the pilot light for gas models.
Inspect and reset the thermostat.
If none of these steps work, contact a professional to repair or replace broken components.

With some troubleshooting, you’ll have your hot water flowing again in no time.

A man checking the thermostat on his HWS

2. Insufficient Hot Water

Running out of hot water too quickly can be frustrating, especially during a shower or when multiple appliances are in use. This common issue often boils down to a few culprits.

One possibility is that your water heater tank is too small for your household’s needs. If you’ve added family members or started using more hot water-intensive appliances, your current unit might not keep up with the demand.

Sediment buildup in the tank is another frequent cause. Over time, minerals from the water settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing its heating efficiency and capacity. Lastly, a malfunctioning thermostat or heating element can also lead to insufficient heating.

To solve this issue, start by checking your water usage. If your tank size is too small, consider upgrading to a larger unit or even a tankless water heater for continuous hot water.

For sediment buildup, flushing the tank can restore capacity and improve heating. If these steps don’t work, inspect the thermostat settings or call a professional to replace faulty components. With the right approach, you’ll quickly be enjoying consistent hot water again.

3. Water Heater Leaking

Discovering water pooling around your water heater is never a good sign. Leaks can lead to water damage and low water pressure and signal underlying issues with the unit.

Here are the common causes of water heater leaks and how to address them:

Loose connections: Over time, the inlet or outlet connections can loosen, causing water to seep out.
Faulty temperature and pressure (T&P) valve: If the T&P valve is defective, it may release water to reduce pressure, even when unnecessary.
Cracked tank: Internal corrosion or age-related wear can lead to cracks in the tank, allowing water to escape.

How to Fix It:

Tighten any loose connections using a wrench, ensuring they’re snug but not overly tight.
Check the T&P valve. If it’s the source of the leak, replace it promptly.
Inspect the tank for visible cracks or signs of rust. Unfortunately, a cracked tank typically means you’ll need a new water heater.

If the source of the leak isn’t obvious or the problem persists, call a plumber to diagnose and repair the issue. Early action can save you from costly damage.

A woman noticing strange noises coming from her HWS

4. Strange Noises Coming from the Tank

If your water heater is making popping, rumbling, or banging noises, it’s trying to tell you something. These sounds are common in older or poorly maintained units and often indicate an issue.

Here’s what might be causing the racket and how to fix it:

Sediment buildup: Over time, minerals from hard water accumulate at the bottom of the tank. When the heater operates, water trapped beneath the sediment boils and creates popping or rumbling noises.
Expanding and contracting metal: The tank and its components naturally expand and contract as they heat and cool, causing minor banging sounds.
Loose heating element: In electric heaters, a loose heating element can vibrate and create a buzzing noise.

How to Fix It:

Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup. Regular maintenance helps prevent this issue.
If noise persists, inspect the heating element and tighten it if needed.
For significant or ongoing noises, call a professional plumber to ensure there are no serious underlying problems.

Addressing these sounds early can help prolong the life of your water heater and restore peace to your home.

5. Water Temperature Is Too Hot or Too Cold

Dealing with water that’s either scalding hot or frustratingly cold? This is a common water heater issue that can make daily tasks uncomfortable or even unsafe. The good news is, it’s often an easy fix.

One of the main causes is a thermostat that’s set incorrectly. If it’s set too high, you might find yourself dodging overly hot water. On the flip side, a low thermostat setting can leave you shivering in a cold shower.

Another possible culprit is a faulty thermostat or heating element, which can cause erratic water temperatures or fail to heat the water altogether.

To solve this, start by checking your thermostat settings. The recommended temperature is typically around 60°C (to ensure bacteria can’t grow in the storage tank). Adjust it as needed and see if the issue resolves. If the water temperature remains inconsistent or extreme, the thermostat or heating element may need repair or replacement.

For persistent issues, it’s wise to call a professional plumber. They can diagnose the problem and ensure your water heater is running safely and efficiently.

Hot water flowing into a kitchen sink

Keep the Hot Water Flowing

Your water heater is a hardworking appliance that keeps your home running smoothly, but it’s not immune to wear and tear. From insufficient hot water to strange noises or leaks, common problems can arise that disrupt your daily routine.

The good news is that many of these issues have straightforward solutions, whether it’s flushing the tank, adjusting the thermostat, or tightening connections.

Regular maintenance is key to preventing costly repairs and extending the life of your unit. If you’re unsure how to fix a problem or suspect a more serious issue, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.

By staying proactive and addressing problems promptly, you can ensure your water heater continues to provide reliable service for years to come. Hot water, hassle-free.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.