A lack of hot water can be caused by a simple setting, a tripped power supply, or a problem that requires professional service. Always take extra care around water heaters because they may involve electricity or gas.
Safe checks to try first
- Check whether the water heater has power or whether its circuit breaker has tripped.
- Confirm that the temperature setting has not been turned down.
- Consider whether several people used hot water recently; the tank may need time to recover.
- Look around the unit for visible water leakage.
- For a gas water heater, check whether the pilot-light status indicator shows a fault.
When to call a technician
Do not attempt gas-line or electrical repairs yourself. Contact a qualified technician immediately if you smell gas, see major water leakage, notice exposed wiring, hear unusual noises, or cannot safely identify the cause.
