There’s nothing worse than jumping in the shower, only to be hit with icy cold water because your gas hot water isn’t working. We get it—it’s frustrating, inconvenient, and downright uncomfortable!
If you’re dealing with a gas hot water system not working, or if your water isn’t as hot as it used to be, don’t panic just yet. There are a few common culprits behind the problem, and with a bit of troubleshooting, you might be able to get things running again.
Our specialists have compiled some main reasons your gas hot water might have stopped working and, more importantly, what you can do about it.
Common Reasons Your Gas Hot Water Stopped Working
When your gas hot water isn’t working, it’s usually down to a handful of common issues. Here are the top reasons why your gas hot water system might be acting up:
Pilot Light Issues
One of the most frequent reasons for a gas hot water system failing is a faulty pilot light. If the pilot light goes out, your water heater won’t ignite the gas to heat the water.
This can happen due to a gust of wind, a malfunction, or even a blockage in the line. Luckily, reigniting the pilot light is usually a simple fix.
Thermostat Problems
Another potential issue is a faulty thermostat. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the water temperature, so if it’s not working correctly, you might end up with cold water or scalding hot water.
A broken thermostat is a bit more complicated to fix on your own, but it’s often a common reason behind gas hot water systems not working.
Gas Supply Issues
Your gas hot water heater needs a steady supply of gas to function. If there’s a disruption to the gas line or a valve has been accidentally turned off, your heater won’t be able to generate hot water.
Gas supply issues can stem from something as simple as a closed valve or as complex as a problem with your home’s gas metre.
Faulty Heating Elements or Components
Your gas hot water system relies on various components to heat the water effectively.
Over time, parts like the thermocouple, gas burner, or even the heating elements themselves can wear out, leading to poor performance or no hot water at all. If you’ve had your hot water tank for a long time, these parts may need to be cleaned, repaired, or replaced.
DIY Troubleshooting Tips
Before you call in a professional (we’re right here if you need us!), there are a few things you can try on your own to get your hot water back up and running.
Below are some of our team’s trusted DIY troubleshooting tips. Just make sure you practice conscious health and safety if and when attempting these by yourself—and stop at any point if you’re unsure.
Check the Power and Reset the System
Even though it’s a gas system, your water heater still requires some electrical power to run the controls. Make sure it’s plugged in, and if it has a reset button, try pressing it. If you’re lucky, that might be all it takes to reset the system and restore your hot water.
Inspect for Leaks and Obstructions
Take a look around the water heater for any signs of leaks. Water pooling near the heater or rust on the tank could indicate a problem that needs attention. Also, make sure there are no obstructions around the system that might be affecting its performance.
Test the Water Temperature
If you’re not getting the right water temperature, test the temperature setting on the thermostat. Set it to a safe temperature—around 50-60°C is ideal for most homes. Be sure to test it carefully so you don’t accidentally burn yourself with hot water.
Check the Gas Metre and Connections
Head outside and take a look at your gas metre. Ensure that the valve is in the open position and that there are no visible signs of damage. If you suspect a problem with the gas supply, it’s best to call your gas provider before proceeding.
Signs of a Serious Problem—When to Call the Pros
While some issues can be resolved with simple fixes, there are certain signs that your gas hot water system not working may be more serious.
This is when you really, really don’t want to be attempting things by yourself (even though we’re sure you’re great shakes with a wrench)—aside from potential health and safety risks, it might just make things worse and end up costing you more!
Gas fitting issues often, if not usually, require a professional to fix them. Here are the red flags to look out for that indicate it’s time for a professional plumber to take over:
- Persistent lack of hot water: If you’ve tried troubleshooting and still have no hot water, it’s time to call in a professional.
- Strange noises: Gurgling, banging, or popping sounds coming from the water heater can indicate sediment buildup or faulty components.
- Discoloured water: Rusty or murky water is a clear sign that something is wrong, usually indicating corrosion in the tank or pipes.
- Foul odours: A rotten egg smell is often a sign of bacteria buildup in the tank, especially in homes with untreated well water.
- Gas smell: If you detect the smell of gas, this could indicate a leak, and you should immediately evacuate the area and call a licensed plumber or gas fitter. This is not a drill—gas leaks are considered a plumbing emergency.
If you notice any of these issues, get a professional gas fitter and/or plumber involved ASAP. They’ll be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Electric vs Gas Hot Water Systems: Pros and Cons
If your gas hot water system not working has made you wonder if it’s time for an upgrade, you’re probably weighing the pros and cons of electric vs gas hot water systems. Both have their benefits, so let’s break them down:
Gas Hot Water Systems:
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Electric Hot Water Systems:
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Tips for Choosing the Best Hot Water System in Australia
Choosing the best hot water system in Australia can depend on your household’s needs, budget, and energy availability. What’s best for your home might not be ideal for Jim’s down the road, for example.
Here are a few key things to consider when making your choice:
- Household size: Larger households that use a lot of hot water will benefit from a gas system that can heat water quickly. Smaller households might find an electric system more economical.
- Energy efficiency: Look for energy-efficient models that will save you money in the long run. Both gas and electric systems offer high-efficiency options, but gas tends to be more cost-effective for larger families.
- Available space: Consider where your hot water system will be installed. If space is tight, a compact electric unit might be a better fit, while gas systems often require more room for venting.
- Installation costs: While gas systems may have higher upfront installation costs, they can save you money in the long term with lower running costs. Electric systems are typically cheaper to install but can cost more to run.
- Environmental impact: If you’re environmentally conscious, consider the carbon emissions associated with each system. Gas hot water systems generally have lower emissions than electric systems powered by non-renewable energy sources.
Related: Choosing the Perfect Hot Water System For Your Home
Call Rozelle Plumbing for Gas Hot Water Repairs and Installations
At Rozelle Plumbing, we know how important it is to have reliable hot water, especially when your gas hot water system isn’t working. No issue is too big or too small—facing a minor hiccup? We’ve got you. Have a more serious issue? Let us take a look.
Our team of licensed plumbers is ready to help with expert repairs, replacements, and new installations. We can also advise you on the best hot water system Australia has to offer, tailored to your home’s needs.
Give us a call today or register for a quote and inspection online.
Further reading: 5 Steps to take During a Plumbing Emergency
