Top 7 Reasons Your Water Heater Is Not Working and How to Fix It

Given their wide range of uses, water heaters are practically essential in New Zealand homes. For one, the steady supply of hot water they provide allows households to have quick access to warm water for bathing and showering, which is a must especially during cold seasons. Hot water can also be used to effectively remove grease and sanitise dishes, as well as for cooking procedures such as blanching vegetables. These tasks can certainly be accomplished without water heaters, but they will take much more time and effort; thus, water heaters have become an indispensable part of any modern household.

This is also why, when your water heater breaks down or isn’t functioning optimally, it’s best to contact plumbers Dunedin residents have trusted for years— just like Mains Plumbers. We have a team of expert plumbers ready to answer your call, whether you’re having water heater issues or in need of other emergency plumbing services. We pride ourselves in delivering quality repairs and installations, ensuring that your home’s water heater is restored to proper working condition in a timely manner. 

To help you better understand what’s causing your water heater to malfunction, here are some common reasons why a water heater might not be working properly, along with suggestions for fixing each issue:

1. Lack of Power

Electric water heaters require a stable supply of power to function. If there is a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse, it can completely cut off the electricity needed for the heater to properly operate. Similarly, damaged wiring or loose connections may prevent your water heater from functioning efficiently.

To verify if this might be the cause for your water heater’s malfunction, check your circuit breaker panel if it tripped or look for blown fuses and replace them. Also, ensure that your water heater is securely plugged in. If the electrical issue seems more complex, call a professional to get it fixed.

2. Thermostat Malfunction

The thermostat of your water heater is responsible for regulating the temperature of the water. If it’s not working properly, then the water could end up being too cold, lukewarm, or excessively hot. Check if your water heater’s thermostat is functioning properly by adjusting the temperature setting to see if it triggers the heating process. If it fails to respond, have the thermostat replaced to get your water heater back in working order.

3. Faulty Heating Element

The heating element is the device responsible for warming the water inside the tank. Over time, it can wear out, break, or burn out due to prolonged use, leading to instances where it’s unable to heat your water efficiently. To see if your heating element might be the reason why your water heater isn’t working, turn off the heater’s power supply and inspect the device for any visible damage or wear. You may also use a multimeter to test its functionality or call a professional to do it for you. If it proves to be faulty or broken, then have it replaced promptly.

4. Sediment Buildup

Hard water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which can settle at the bottom of the water tank over time and form a layer of sediment. This sediment buildup ends up being a barrier that prevents the heating element inside your tank from heating up your water properly.

To avoid this issue, make it a habit to regularly drain and flush your water tank to remove sediments and other particles. You may also consider installing a water softener system to prevent any future instances of mineral buildup.

5. Leaking Tank

Corrosion, cracks, or loose connections can cause leaks in your tank. These leaks not only waste water but also reduce the heater’s ability to maintain sufficient water pressure and heat. You can have this issue fixed by calling your local plumber and having them either tighten any loose fittings, repair faulty connections, or replace the entire tank if needed.

6. Pilot Light or Igniter Issues

Water heaters that run on gas rely on a pilot light or an igniter to ignite the burner, which heats the water. If the pilot light goes out or the igniter malfunctions, the burner cannot produce heat. Relighting the pilot light as indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions or replacing the igniter if it’s faulty or worn out should fix this problem. However, if you suspect that a gas line issue might be what’s causing the malfunction, then you can call licensed gas fitters to look into the matter further.

7. Age of the Water Heater

As water heaters age, their components wear out, leading to heating inefficiencies and more frequent issues. As such, if your old water heater is becoming more prone to breakdowns, consider replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model for smoother operation.

Contact Mains Plumber for Your Water Heater Repair Needs

Whether your water heater is malfunctioning due to leaks, igniter issues, or tank problems, you can count on Mains Plumbers to get it fixed. We cater to both residential and light commercial plumbing needs, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us at our contact page or give us a call at 03-488-6000 to get your water heater serviced today.