Nothing puts a damper on your day quite like stepping into a cold shower or finding out your dishwasher isn’t cleaning properly. If you’re dealing with no hot water in your house, you’re not alone — and you’re certainly not stuck. Whether it’s an issue with your gas water heater not working, an electric water heater not heating, or even a tankless water heater not heating, we’re breaking down what could be wrong — and how to fix hot water issues.
As the go-to experts for plumbing and heating solutions across BC, Quan Plumbing & Heating is here to guide you through some no-hot-water troubleshooting steps and let you know when it’s time to call in the professionals. Read on to discover the solutions you’ve been searching for, or reach out to our water heater experts now to book a service appointment!
Start with the Basics: Check the Thermostat and Power Supply
Before diving into complex water heater problems, let’s cover the easy stuff first. The thermostat on your hot water tank or heater might be set too low, preventing water from reaching a usable temperature. Ideally, it should be set around 49°C (120° F) to balance efficiency and avoid scalding.
If an electric water heater is not working, make sure the electrical wiring is intact, and check your breaker panel for a tripped switch. With gas water heaters, check that the pilot light is on. If it’s out, follow your manufacturer’s instructions to relight it, or call a plumber if the flame doesn’t stay lit. A gas leak or a faulty combustion system could be to blame, and that’s not something you want to DIY.
Dig Deeper: Leaks and Heating Element Failures
Leaks are another common issue. If your water heater isn’t heating properly, check around the tank for any visible signs of water. Look closely at the top fittings, the sides of the tank, and the base for any signs of leakage. Sometimes, moisture may be due to condensation, but if you’re unsure, we can provide a quick inspection to confirm.
Specific Systems, Specific Fixes: Electric, Gas, and Tankless
Each type of water heater comes with its own set of quirks. Let’s break it down:
Electric Water Heater Not Heating?
You may be dealing with a burned-out heating element or a broken thermostat. Other issues might include corrosion from poor water quality. Don’t forget to check for blown fuses or tripped breakers.
Gas Water Heater Not Turning On?
Check the pilot and gas valve first. If everything looks good but you still have no hot water, you should still contact a professional. Gas water heaters are not something you can easily fix yourself, so leave it to us to resolve these issues.
Tankless Water Heater Not Heating?
Tankless units are efficient but sensitive. A clogged filtration system, hard water scale, or inadequate flow rate can trigger a safety shutoff. Keep your inlet screen clean and ensure proper water pressure. If your tankless water heater is not heating, a deeper internal problem may be the cause.
Watch Out for These Signs of Bigger Issues
If your water heater is not heating up, it’s often more than just an inconvenience. Here are red flags that could point to more serious trouble:
- Rusty water: A sign that your tank or magnesium anode rod is corroding.
- Popping or rumbling sounds: Caused by hardened sediment at the tank’s base.
- Fluctuating water temperatures: May point to a failing thermostat or broken valve.
- Low hot water pressure: Mineral buildup in your lines, especially near your sink, shower, or dishwasher.
- Water damage around the unit: Indicates possible internal tank failure.
Ignoring these signs could lead to inefficient heating, poor performance, or major leaks. Staying ahead of water heater problems can save you thousands in home improvement costs down the line.
The Quan Plumbing & Heating Difference
At Quan Plumbing & Heating, we believe great customer service starts with honest solutions and ends with a job well done. Whether your hot water tank is broken, your gas water heater isn’t working, or you’re planning a full boiler upgrade, we’ll help you fix it fast — and fix it right.
We specialize in repairing all major types of water heaters. With expert tools and a deep knowledge of natural gas, Quan Plumbing & Heating is here to assist you and get your hot water back up and running!
No Hot Water? We’re Here to Help
Losing hot water in your home is never fun, but it doesn’t have to throw your whole day off. By checking your thermostat, power, and system components, you can often pinpoint the problem. And if things get a bit too complicated — or you simply want peace of mind — Quan Plumbing & Heating is just a phone call away.
From tackling gas water heater issues to restoring electric hot water systems, our licensed pros are ready to bring the heat back to your home. Don’t let another bone-chilling shower, depressing dishwasher cycle, or sleepless night disrupt your routine. Contact us today and get your hot water flowing again — with fast, friendly, and professional service every step of the way.