No hot water
When the hot water stops, the problem is usually power, gas or one worn part. Here is what you can safely check yourself, and when to stop and call someone.
Quick answers
How much is a repair visit?
Holiday promotion: no booking fee through Nov 30. The pro gives you a free estimate.
How much does water heater repair cost?
Angi's 2026 guide puts a typical repair at $228–$1,017 nationally. Your pro quotes the real price after looking at the unit.
Repair or replace?
ENERGY STAR suggests considering a replacement once a water heater is more than 10 years old. A leak from the tank itself usually means replacement.
Source: ENERGY STAR: When should you replace your water heater?
Can I fix it myself?
You can check the breaker, relight a pilot by the label's steps if you don't smell gas, and check the dial. Gas, venting and wiring work belongs to a pro.
Check these first
- Electric heater: check the breaker panel. Water heaters use a double breaker. If it tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, leave it off.
- Gas heater: look through the viewing window for the pilot flame. If it's out, follow the relight steps on the label on the tank, exactly as written.
- Check the temperature dial on the tank. It may have been turned down. The DOE suggests 120°F for most homes.
- Make sure the gas supply valve is open (the handle runs in line with the pipe).
- If only one faucet is cold, the issue is likely that faucet's mixing valve, not the heater.
- Heavy use, like back-to-back showers, can empty the tank. Give it an hour to recover.
When to call a pro
- You smell gas. Leave the house right away, don't touch switches, and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Don't try to relight anything.
- The breaker trips again after one reset, or you see scorch marks or melted wiring.
- The pilot won't stay lit, or the label's relight steps don't work.
- Water is leaking from the tank itself, or the pressure relief valve keeps dripping.
- You hear popping or rumbling, or the water comes out rusty.
Safety: Don't remove electrical cover panels with the power on, and never block or cap the pressure relief valve. Gas line, venting and wiring work belongs to a pro.
Book a visit online
Same-day or next-day visits available.
Prefer to talk? Call 1-844-31-HOME-5(844) 314-6635
Questions
Why does my hot water run out so fast?
Sediment buildup or a failed heating element can cut how much hot water a tank delivers. A pro can test the elements and flush the tank.
Is it safe to relight the pilot myself?
Only if you don't smell gas and you follow the manufacturer's label on the tank exactly. If it won't stay lit, call a pro.
How fast can a pro come out?
Same-day or next-day visits available in many areas. Use the booking form below or call us.
Source: DOE Energy Saver guide (2022), ENERGY STAR: When should you replace your water heater?
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