Why Isn’t My Water Heater Working? 5 Possible Reasons & Solutions

Few things are more frustrating than stepping into the shower, expecting warm water, only to be met with an icy blast. If you're asking yourself, "Why isn't my water heater working?"—you're not alone. A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt your daily routine and leave you scrambling for a solution.

Let’s break down some of the most common water heater problems and how you can fix them.

 

1. Failing Power Supply

If your water heater isn’t working at all, the first step is to check whether it’s getting power. For electric water heaters, a tripped circuit breaker could be the culprit. Reset the breaker and see if that restores hot water. If you have a gas water heater, ensure the pilot light is lit—if it’s out, relight it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If resetting the breaker or relighting the pilot light doesn’t work, the issue may be with the heating elements or gas supply. A professional plumber can diagnose and fix the problem safely.

 

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

If your water heater is producing lukewarm water, it could be due to a faulty thermostat. Over time, thermostats can wear out or get set incorrectly, preventing the water from reaching the desired temperature.

Try adjusting the thermostat to a higher setting (but not above 120°F for safety). If the issue persists, it may be time for a thermostat replacement.

 

3. Low Water Capacity

One of the most common answers to “Why isn’t my water heater working?” is that your appliance simply can’t keep up with your household’s demand for hot water.

If you’re running out of hot water faster than usual, your water heater’s capacity might be too low. If your household has grown or your water needs have increased, your current unit may no longer be sufficient.

Consider upgrading to a larger unit or a tankless water heater to better meet your household’s hot water needs.

 

4. Sediment Buildup

A noisy water heater—whether it’s popping, banging, or rumbling—often indicates excessive sediment buildup. When sediment settles at the bottom of the tank, it can cause the heating element to overheat and create these sounds. Sediment buildup in the tank can reduce efficiency, making it harder to maintain hot water.

Regularly flushing your water heater can prevent sediment buildup and keep your unit running efficiently. If the noise persists, it may be time for a professional inspection.

 

5. Leaks

Water pooling around your heater is never a good sign. Even a small leak can reduce your available hot water because the tank isn’t able to maintain its full capacity. As water escapes, your heater has to work harder to keep up, leading to inefficiency and a noticeable drop in hot water supply. Leaks can be caused by a loose drain valve, a broken pressure relief valve, or even corrosion inside the tank.

Tighten any loose connections and check the pressure relief valve for leaks. If the tank itself is leaking due to corrosion, replacing the water heater may be the only solution.

 

While some water heater issues can be fixed with simple troubleshooting, others require expert attention. If you’re dealing with persistent problems, unusual smells, or visible signs of wear and tear, it’s best to call in a professional.

Choose an experienced Indianapolis water heater repair professional to diagnose common water heater problems. They’ll be able to find the issue and recommend the best solution, whether it’s a repair or a replacement.