10 Common Water Heater Problems And How To Fix Them

A water heater is essential to any home, providing hot water for bathing, cleaning, and cooking. However, like any household appliance, it can develop faults over time. These problems can disrupt daily life and lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Therefore, understanding water heater problems and solutions can help homeowners resolve minor issues before they escalate.

If you have water heater issues, our experts at Citywide Plumbers can help. We specialise in diagnosing and repairing all types of water heater problems, ensuring your system runs smoothly and efficiently. Our experienced plumbers provide fast, reliable, affordable service across West London.

Contact us on 020 3892 8545 or email us at info@citywideplumbers.co.uk for expert assistance!

The 10 Water Heater Problems And Solutions

1. No Hot Water

If your water heater is not heating, you could have:

Possible causes

• A tripped circuit breaker (for electric water heaters)
• A faulty gas supply or pilot light (for gas water heaters)
• A broken thermostat or heating element

Solutions

• Electric water heaters: Check the circuit breaker and reset it if necessary. If it trips again, you may need an electrician. The heating element was also tested using a multimeter.
• Gas water heaters: Check if the pilot light is on. If not, relight it. If it keeps going out, the thermocouple may need replacing.

Also Read: Minimise Plumbing Repair Expenses

2. Water Heater Leaks

Possible causes

• A faulty pressure relief valve
• Loose or damaged drain valve
• Corrosion in the hot water heater tank

Solutions

• Tighten any loose connections.
• If the drain valve is leaking, replace it.
• If the tank itself is corroded, you may need to replace your water heater.

3. Water Temperature Issues

Water that is too hot, too cold, or fluctuating is a common water heater problem.

Possible causes

• Incorrect thermostat settings
• A faulty thermostat or heating element
• Sediment buildup affecting heating efficiency

Solutions

• Set the thermostat to 50-60°C (recommended UK setting).
• Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup.
• If the problem continues, replace the thermostat or heating element.

4. Discoloured Or Smelly Water

Rusty or smelly water could indicate bacteria growth or tank corrosion.

Possible causes

• A corroded anode rod
• Bacteria in the tank
• Rust inside the tank

Solutions

• Replace the anode rod to prevent further corrosion.
• Flush the tank and add a hydrogen peroxide solution to kill bacteria.
• If rust is coming from the tank itself, replace your water heater.

5. Water Heater Making Strange Noises

Unusual sounds like popping, rumbling, or banging can mean sediment buildup inside the tank.

Solutions

• Flush the tank to remove sediment.
• If noises continue, the heating element may be failing and needs replacing.

6. Low Water Pressure

Possible causes

• Blocked pipes due to limescale or sediment
• Narrow old pipes in older homes
• Faulty cold water inlet valve

Solutions

• Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup.
• If pipes are old, consider upgrading to wider pipes.
• Check the cold water inlet valve and replace it if needed.

7. Pilot Light Keeps Going Out (Gas Heaters)

Possible causes

• Faulty thermocouple
• Dirty pilot orifice
• Gas supply issues

Solutions

• Clean the pilot orifice to ensure proper gas flow.
• Test the thermocouple and replace it if faulty.
• Ensure the gas valve is fully open.

8. Water Heater Takes Too Long To Reheat

Possible causes

• Sediment buildup reduces heating efficiency
• Undersized hot water heater
• A failing heating element

Solutions

• Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup.
• If your water heater is too small for your household’s needs, replace it with a larger model.

9. Water Heater Shutting Off Unexpectedly

Possible causes

• Overheating due to a faulty thermostat
• A clogged vent (gas models)
• A broken heating element (electric models)

Solutions

• Test and replace the thermostat if necessary.
• Check and clear the vent to prevent overheating.
• Inspect the heating element for signs of failure.

10. Water Heater Runs Out Of Hot Water Quickly

Possible causes

• A damaged or broken heating element
• A faulty thermostat
• An undersized hot water heater

Solutions

• Replace the heating element or thermostat if faulty.
• If your family has grown, you may need to replace your water heater with a larger-capacity model.

Tips To Maintain Your Hot Water Heater And Prevent Problems

To keep your hot water heater in good condition, follow these tips:

• Flush the tank every 6-12 months to remove sediment.
• Check the anode rod yearly and replace it if corroded.
• Test the pressure relief valve to ensure it’s working properly.
• Insulate your water heater and pipes to improve efficiency.
• Schedule professional servicing to catch issues early.

By following these troubleshooting tips and maintenance steps, you can prevent common water heater problems and plumbing disasters in winter, ultimately extending the life of your unit.

When To Call A Professional

If you experience any of the following, contact a qualified plumber:

• Your water heater is not heating even after troubleshooting.
• The pressure relief valve is constantly leaking.
• You see rust or large leaks from the tank.
• The circuit breaker trips repeatedly for electric models.
• If your water heater issues continue, it might be time to replace it.

Trust Citywide Plumbers To Solve All Your Hot Water Heater Problems Professionally

With years of expertise in the plumbing and heating industry, Citywide Plumbers is your go-to expert for diagnosing, repairing, and replacing water heaters in London and surrounding areas. Our team of Gas Safe registered engineers is highly skilled in working with all types of water heaters, including gas, electric, and tankless systems.

Whether you’re dealing with no hot water, leaks, low pressure, or unusual noises, we have the tools and knowledge to resolve water heater problems quickly and efficiently.

• Experienced professionals – With decades of hands-on experience, we’ve seen and solved every water heater issue imaginable.
• Fast response times – We understand that hot water problems can be urgent. That’s why we offer same-day service and aim to respond within one hour in emergencies.
• Comprehensive services – Whether you need repairs, maintenance, or a full water heater replacement, we provide tailored solutions to your home’s needs.
• Upfront pricing and no hidden costs—We provide clear, honest quotes before any work begins, ensuring no surprises on your bill.
• Trusted and certified engineers—Our team is Gas Safe and NICEIC registered, ensuring that all work is done safely and in compliance with UK regulations.
• High-quality installations – If you need a new water heater, we only install top-rated, energy-efficient brands to help you save money on energy bills.
• 5-Star customer reviews – Our clients consistently praise our professionalism, reliability, and high-quality workmanship.

For expert water heater repair, maintenance, and installation services, contact Citywide Plumbers on 020 3892 8545 or email us at info@citywideplumbers.co.uk.