No Hot Water? How to Deal with a Malfunctioning Water Heater?

An exterior image of a car showing the windshield and window glass.

A water heater is one of the most integral pieces of equipment in a person’s home. Most Americans use their water heater nearly every day, and sometimes they take the appliance for granted. However, just like any other appliance in the house, the water heater can become damaged or malfunctioned. A malfunctioned water heater can cause you a significant inconvenience, and since most of us aren’t seasoned plumbers, knowing how to troubleshoot a water heater can be quiet and a task. However, there are two significant reasons a water heater system is a malfunction: issues in the heating elements or a defective thermostat. We’ll break them down for you:

1.     Issues in the Heating Elements

A water heating system consists of two heating elements that perform two different roles connected by distinct thermostats. One heating element is at the top, and the other is at the bottom. Cold water is supplied to the bottom of the water heater tank, enabled by a small tube.

After the tank is full of cold water, the thermostat at the top ignites their heating element, and once the water reaches the desired temperature, the thermostat shuts off.  Power than moves to the other thermostat and heating element. This establishes a cycle of alternating power switches heating system, meaning issues in one heating element affect the entire water heater’s ability to do its job.

Common defects in heating elements can occur because of the constant heating and cooling. These defects can cause cracks to arise in the heating elements, greatly hindering their ability to perform their job.

2.     Faulty Thermostat

Another common reason for malfunctioning water heaters is problems with the thermostat. The thermostat sets the required temperature for the system; the heating elements then use this information to conduct its role of heating the water.

As you can imagine, if a thermostat malfunctions, the whole system will cease functioning effectively. The water heater won’t regulate the temperature accurately and generate water that’s too hot or too cold.

An exterior shot of part of a water heating system.

If you’re having problems with your water heater, check out Pro Serve Plumbing. We offer all types of plumbing and water heater services in Fort Worth.  We’re experienced in replacing heating elements and thermostats. Get in touch with us now to book your appointment.