Few household frustrations compare to stepping into an icy shower or facing a sink full of cold dishwater. When your water heater fails, the culprit is often one of four components: a tripped breaker, a faulty pilot light, broken heating elements, or a mismanaged thermostat.
At A1 Best Plumbing, Long Beach’s trusted water heater repair specialists, we’ve resolved countless no-hot-water emergencies—and most start with these issues.In this guide, we’ll walk you through diagnosing and addressing each problem, share pro tips from our technicians, and explain when to call our Long Beach Plumbers for safe, code-compliant repairs.
Understanding Your Water Heater: Gas vs. Electric
First, identify your system type:
- Gas Water Heaters: Use a pilot light and gas burner to heat water.
- Electric Water Heaters: Rely on heating elements powered by your home’s electrical system.
Both types depend on thermostats to regulate temperature. Let’s break down the top causes of hot water loss.
1. Tripped Circuit Breaker (Electric Heaters)
What’s Happening?
Electric water heaters require 240-volt circuits. If the breaker trips, the elements won’t heat.
What to Do:
- Check the Electrical Panel: Locate the double-pole breaker labeled “water heater.”
- Reset the Breaker: Switch it off fully, then back on.
- Test the Water: Wait 1–2 hours. If still cold, the breaker may be faulty or overloaded.
A1 Pro Tip:
“Breakers that trip repeatedly signal deeper issues, like a short circuit or bad element,” says A1 Best Plumbing’s lead technician, Robert. “Don’t ignore this—it’s a fire risk.”
2. Pilot Light Out (Gas Heaters)
What’s Happening?
If the pilot light blows out (e.g., from drafts, gas supply issues), the burner can’t ignite.
What to Do:
- Turn the Gas Valve to “Pilot”: Open the access panel at the base of the heater.
- Hold Down the Red Button: This releases gas to the pilot tube.
- Light the Pilot: Use a long lighter. Keep the button pressed for 30 seconds.
- Turn Valve to “On”: The burner should ignite.
Safety First:
- Smell gas? Evacuate and call your utility company immediately.
- Pilot won’t stay lit? The thermocouple may need replacement.
3. Faulty Heating Element (Electric Heaters)
What’s Happening?
Sediment buildup or age can fry elements. Symptoms include:
- Lukewarm water
- Discolored water (rusty, metallic)
- Unusual noises (hissing, popping)
What to Do:
- Test the Element: Use a multimeter to check for continuity. No continuity = dead element.
- Replace the Element:
- Turn off power at the breaker.
- Drain the tank partially.
- Unscrew the old element and install a new one.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
What’s Happening?
Thermostats regulate water temperature. If set too low or broken, you’ll get cold water.
What to Do:
- Adjust the Temperature: Set to 120°F (saves energy, prevents scalding).
- Reset the Thermostat:
- Electric: Hit the reset button (if available).
- Gas: Turn the dial off, wait 5 seconds, then adjust.
- Test with a Multimeter: For electric heaters, ensure the thermostat sends power to elements.
Troubleshooting Checklist
- Check power/gas supply: Breakers on? Gas valve open?
- Test thermostats: Are settings above 120°F?
- Inspect elements/pilot: Signs of damage or wear?
- Listen for anomalies: Popping (sediment) or hissing (leaks)?
4 Risks of Ignoring Hot Water Loss
- Burst Tanks: Overworked elements or rust weaken tanks.
- Carbon Monoxide Leaks: Broken gas valves or vents risk poisoning.
- Scalding: Faulty thermostats may spike temperatures suddenly.
- Higher Bills: Struggling heaters use more energy.
When to Call A1 Best Plumbing – Long Beach Plumbing experts
- Gas Leaks or CO Concerns: Evacuate first, then call us.
- No Hot Water After DIY Fixes: Indicates complex electrical/mechanical issues.
- Rusty Water or Leaks: Likely tank corrosion requiring replacement.
FAQs About Hot Water Issues
Q: How long do water heater elements last?
A: 5–10 years. Hard water shortens lifespan—A1 offers descaling services.
Q: Can I replace elements myself?
A: Yes, but improper installation risks leaks or shocks. Our pros do it in under an hour.
Q: Why does my pilot light keep going out?
A: Drafts, faulty thermocouples, or gas pressure issues. We diagnose it for free!
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover heater repairs?
A: Only if damage is sudden (e.g., burst pipe). Wear and tear isn’t covered.
Trust A1 Best Plumbing for Reliable Hot Water
A1 Best Plumbing has served Long Beach for 15+ years, specializing in:
- Emergency Water Heater Repairs: 24/7 service for no-hot-water crises.
- Element & Thermostat Replacements: Same-day fixes with 1-year warranties.
- Water Heater Upgrades: Energy-efficient models to lower bills.
Contact our Long Beach Plumbing company today for swift, safe solutions—and say goodbye to cold showers!