Are you having problems with your gas water heater?
Water heaters don’t last forever. On average, they last six to 13 years. So, there’s a good chance that you’re going to face some challenges at some point.
Confronting a broken water heater is no fun. It leaves you wondering what to do, who to call, and who can fix the problem. Luckily, we’re here to help.
Read on to learn more about dealing with your gas water heater not working. Let’s get started.
Check the Pilot Light
The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas in your water heater. If your water heater is not producing hot water, the first thing to check is the pilot light.
Find the access panel near the bottom of the heater, remove it carefully, and take a look inside. If the pilot light is out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. Remember to turn off the gas and wait a few minutes before attempting to relight it.
Verify the Gas Supply
Sometimes, the gas supply to your water heater might get interrupted. This can cause a lack of hot water. Check if the gas control valve, usually located near the bottom of the water heater, is in the “on” position.
If not, turn it on and wait a while for the water heater to heat up. If you’re unsure how to do this, it’s best to contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Inspect the Thermocouple
The thermocouple is a safety device that senses if the pilot light is burning. If the thermocouple is faulty or covered in dirt and soot, it may prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
Inspect the thermocouple and gently clean it using a soft brush. If that doesn’t solve the issue, the thermocouple might need replacement.
This will be best done by a plumbing company. If you don’t know where to start, you can click for plumbing services online rather easily nowadays.
Flush the Water Heater
Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can accumulate in the bottom of the water heater tank, affecting its performance. To flush the water heater, turn off the gas supply and cold water intake valve.
Attach a garden hose to its drain valve. This is at the bottom of the tank. Then, let the water drain into a bucket until it runs clear.
Close the drain valve, remove the hose, turn the cold water supply back on, and then the gas supply. Flushing the water heater once a year can improve its efficiency and extend its lifespan.
Seek Help for Gas Water Heater Not Working
Is your gas water heater not working? If so, it is important to seek help right away. Even a small issue can quickly escalate into more serious issues if not addressed early on.
Delaying can not only cause property damage but also put you and your family at risk. Call a plumbing professional or find an online guide for further help.
We hope you found the tips above helpful. If you’d like to know more, don’t hesitate to check out our other blog posts!
