Water Heater Not Heating? Troubleshooting Steps Before You Call
Electric Water Heaters
Check your circuit breaker first — a tripped breaker is a simple, common cause of a total loss of hot water on electric units.
If the breaker is fine, a failed upper heating element is the next most common cause, especially if you have some hot water but it runs out very quickly.
Gas Water Heaters
A pilot light that has gone out is the most common cause on gas units — many modern units have simple relighting instructions printed on the tank, but if the pilot won’t stay lit, the thermocouple has likely failed.
If you smell gas near the unit, do not attempt to relight it — leave the area, avoid switches or open flames, and call your gas utility’s emergency line immediately.
When to Call a Specialist
If basic checks (breaker, pilot light) don’t resolve the issue, or if you smell gas, it’s time to call a licensed local water heater specialist rather than continuing to troubleshoot on your own.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my water heater have some hot water but it runs out fast?
This often points to a failed upper heating element (electric units) or sediment buildup reducing effective tank capacity — both are typically repairable.
Can I relight my own gas water heater pilot light?
Many units have simple relighting instructions, but if it won’t stay lit after a couple of attempts, the thermocouple has likely failed and needs professional repair.
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