Troubleshooting Basics: Why Isn’t My Water Heater Working?

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technician repairing a water heater

Water heaters can fail without warning, but there’s usually a clear reason behind the breakdown. Promptly and accurately identifying the cause can help you get it fixed quickly.

EJ Home Services has you covered when you need water heater repair in Los Altos Hills, CA. Read on as we dive into how to get hot water flowing again.

No Power or Gas Supply

Before taking drastic measures like a water heater replacement, take a step back and consider that the solution you need is as simple as the water heater being unplugged or lacking fuel. Water heaters guzzle gas and power, and low fuel levels or a tripped circuit breaker can cut off the energy it needs to operate.

Check your breaker box and reset any flipped switches. If you have a gas-powered unit, make sure the gas valve is open and that your pilot light is on.

Sediment Buildup

This section contains invaluable information for homeowners who have hard water at home. The problem with hard water is that it contains minerals that can settle at the bottom of your water heater tank.

This buildup makes it harder for the system to heat efficiently, leading to lukewarm water for your showers and other daily activities. The most straightforward solution against this is to schedule water heater maintenance and have your water heater tank flushed every 6 months.

Faulty Thermostat

Your thermostat controls just how hot the temperature of your water gets. It may be the reason why your water isn’t getting hot enough or is suddenly scalding.

Try resetting it to 120°F to restore normal operation. If this and repairs fail, a water heater replacement may be necessary.

There is no need to panic if your water heater isn’t working. If all else fails, turn to EJ Home Services. Contact us and get a $59 main sewer line cleaning and 15% off for our drain cleaning through cleanouts. Call us today to schedule a service!

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Worried about an electrical or plumbing problem?

When you need electrical or plumbing services in San Jose, Santa Clara, or any of the communities in the surrounding Bay Area, count on EJ Home Services. With more than a decade of industry experience, our expertly-trained technicians can handle just about any problem you may have. From drain cleaning to water leaks, sewer line replacements, toilet repairs, electrical repair, upgrades, and more, you can rely on us for all your needs. We even offer emergency services upon availability for serious issues that just can't wait. Our dependable team is always available to assist you.