A Hot Water Heater That Doesn't Work

Some water heater problems can be remedied within a few minutes, while others require partial disassembly.

Water heaters, like all home appliances, require regular maintenance and periodic repairs. Unlike problems associated with some other appliances, a water heater that does not work properly creates an immediate problem. Some problems can be identified and resolved without hiring a repairperson, while others require a professional to diagnose and resolve. Even if you feel uncomfortable with making a repair yourself, just the ability to identify a problem will allow you to speak with repair companies knowledgeably.

Heater Makes a Puffing Sound

If the heater produce a puffing sound, it probably does not have enough air. This problem is common if the heater is located within a small closet or utility room. Test for a shortage of air by first allowing the heater to run with the utility or closet door closed, then open the door and a nearby window. If the puffing stops, the heater is not receiving enough air. Installing a louvered door should fix the problem. If the heater still produces a puffing sound, the problem may be with the heater's flue.

Clogged Flue

Water heaters draw air into a flue that runs through the center of the tank. If the flue is clogged, deadly carbon monoxide gas will seep into the house, and the heater can produce a puffing sound. The gas company can detect the presence of the odorless gas, but you can determine whether the flue is clogged. Close the utility or closet door for a few minutes, then open the door and hold a smoking match approximately 1 inch from the side of the flue hat located above the heater. If the smoke is drawn into the flue, the flue is probably clear. If not, the vent probably requires cleaning.

Gas and Electrical Supply

If the water heater produces only cold water, the heater may not be turned on. Gas heaters are equipped with two gas supply lines valves. The first valve is the gas control box mounted against the tank. The knob on top of the box is the supply valve. Make sure that the knob is turned to the "ON" setting, and light the pilot. The second valve is an in-line valve that features a small handle. Trace the line from the side of the control box to the handle. The handle must be positioned parallel to the line. If you have an electric heater, make sure that the power cable is securely plugged into a wall outlet. If the electric heater was unplugged, you must also press the reset button located behind the access panel.

Burner and Heating Elements

Gas heaters feature one burner. Electric heaters are equipped with one or two heating elements. A defective gas burner will produce a weak flame and a small supply of hot water. Open a hot water faucet, and peer into the bottom of the tank to view the flames surrounding the burner. If the flames are predominantly yellow in color rather than blue, the burner requires attention. If an electric model is equipped with only one heating element, and the heater produces a small quantity of hot water or no hot water at all, chances are good that the element must be replaced. If the heater features two elements and produces a small amount of very hot water and then only cold water, replace the bottom element. If the heater produces warm water but no hot water, replace the upper element.

References

• "Ten Pound Books: Home Repair Guide"; Creative Publishing International; 2007
• "How Your House Works: A Visual Guide to Understanding & Maintaining Your Home"; Charlie Wing; 2007