Why is My Hot Water Tank Not Heating?

Stepping into a shower that you are expecting to be warm can be quite alarming when you find that your hot water tank is not heating properly. When it comes to repairing the problem, the first thing you need to do is to remain as calm as possible. If you are unable or unsure of how to check your tank for problems, always remember that Fountain Plumbing in Tyler, TX is just a phone call away to help!  When troubleshooting on your own, here are a few things that might be causing your hot water tank to not heat. 

Thermostat Settings

One of the most common problems with hot water tanks not heating has to do with the temperature setting on the outside of the tank. Often times the thermostat is not set at the right level and you will experience lukewarm or even cold water inside your house. Even the slightest adjustment on the temperature gauge can make a huge difference in the temperature of the water, so make sure you only move it a little bit and always test the water temperature before jumping into a hot shower. If this does not solve the problem, then your tank might need to be looked at by a professional to diagnose the issue.

Leak in Tank

Another reason your tank might not be heating properly could be that the tank has a leak. Leaks are easy to diagnose because you will see a pool of water on the ground beneath your hot water heater tank or surrounding it. People who have their water heaters out of sight in an attic or closet might have a harder time finding leaks than those who are able to see their tank on a daily basis. If your water is not heating properly, always be sure to take a look before calling your plumber for help.

Faulty Heating Element

Some times the reason your hot water tank is not heating might be that the heating element is out or not working properly. If your unit is an electric tank, check the breaker box to see if it was tripped for some reason. If it continues to trip after you have flipped the switch back, then you will know that you need to contact both an electrician and a plumber. A water heater that is greater than ten years old might have a faulty heating element and need to be replaced. Your local plumber can help you pick out the perfect unit for your family’s needs and help you be back to enjoying warm showers again in no time.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *