Possible Reasons your Water Heater isn't working.

In this post we will cover some reasons why your water heater may not be working properly. As with any appliance or machinery, it is always advised to prioritize safety. First, make sure the power is to the water heater is shut off by switching it off on your circuit breaker. If your water heater is gas, turn off the gas valve. Test any wires with a voltage tester, or gas detector before continuing. Next, open the cold water supply valve releasing any pressure in the tank. Open the drain valve at the bottom of the tank to drain some water out. This prevents scalding in the case there is hot water in the tank. Now it's time to begin troubleshooting.

1. Check the Warranty

If your water heater is fairly new, there is a possibility it is still under warranty. Make sure to check your receipt or manufacturer's webpage as many warranties only cover a few years but do not cover damage from normal wear and tear. Find the model, serial number and manufacturing year if necessary.

2. Check the Pilot Light

A common reason for a gas run water heater is the pilot light will got out. This small flame ignites the burner whenever hot water is needed. To relight it, it will depend on the model of your water heater. The instruction may be on the water heater itself, but if not you can find the information on the manufacturer's website or in the user manual.

3. Water Leak

Another reason for a water heater not working properly is leaking. Carefully check your water heater for any signs of water. Check the drain valve, pressure relief valve and the tank. It is important to call a plumber to fix a leaky water heater.

4. Rust & Corrosion

Discolored water that is leaking from your water heater is a sign you have rust or corrosion in your water heater. This may happen overtime and indicates the anode rod needs to be replaced. If not replaced, the water heater is likely to fail soon after.

5. Age

Lastly, age can be the reason your water heater isn't working. Elements in the water heater begin to break down over time and become less effective. If your water heater is 10 plus years old, you may want to start looking into replacement options.