Why Your Water Heater Isn’t Working (and How to Fix It Safely)

Few household issues are as frustrating as stepping into an unexpected cold shower. If your water heater isn’t working, there’s usually a simple reason — but identifying the cause (and fixing it safely) requires a bit of plumbing know-how.

At Total Comfort Plumbing, we help local homeowners repair, replace, and maintain water heaters of all types. Below, we’ll walk you through the most common causes of water heater failure, what you can check yourself, and when to call in the professionals.

Common Signs Your Water Heater Needs Attention

Before you can fix your water heater, it helps to recognize the warning signs that it’s failing. Some are obvious, but others are easy to miss until they become serious.

Watch for these red flags:

• No hot water or inconsistent temperature

• Strange popping or rumbling sounds

• Rust-colored water coming from your taps

• Leaks or puddles near the heater base

• Reduced water pressure in hot water lines

• A strong metallic or sulfur smell

If you’re experiencing more than one of these issues, it’s best to call a licensed plumber in Daytona Beach right away — water heaters can quickly worsen without proper attention.

Why Your Water Heater Isn’t Working

Understanding what’s causing the problem will help you decide whether you need a repair or replacement.

1. Pilot Light Problems (Gas Water Heaters)

If you have a gas unit, the pilot light is responsible for igniting the burner that heats your water.

If your pilot light keeps going out, the issue could be:

• A faulty thermocouple (the safety sensor that detects flame)

• Drafts near the burner area

• Gas supply issues or a blocked line

You can relight the pilot using the manufacturer’s instructions, but if it won’t stay lit, call Total Comfort Plumbing to inspect the gas valve and thermocouple safely.

2. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse (Electric Water Heaters)

Electric units rely on heating elements and thermostats. If you suddenly lose hot water, check your breaker panel — a tripped breaker may be the culprit.

If it trips again after resetting, the heating element or wiring may be faulty. Never attempt electrical repairs yourself; this is a job for a professional plumber or electrician in Volusia County.

3. Sediment Buildup in the Tank

Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of your tank, forming sediment. This buildup:

• Reduces heating efficiency

• Causes rumbling or popping sounds

• Increases your energy bills

• Leads to premature tank failure

“We flush dozens of water heaters every year in Ormond Beach homes,” says a Total Comfort Plumbing technician. “The local water hardness makes annual maintenance essential.”

Schedule a water heater flush at least once a year to remove sediment and improve performance.

4. Thermostat or Heating Element Failure

If your water is lukewarm or fluctuates between hot and cold, your thermostat or heating element could be malfunctioning.

Both components are replaceable, but testing them safely requires experience. A certified plumber in Port Orange can diagnose which part has failed and replace it on the spot.

5. Leaking Tank or Pressure Relief Valve

A leaking water heater is always a red flag. It may come from:

• A corroded tank (common in older units)

• A faulty pressure relief valve

• Loose fittings or pipes

If you see active leaks or rust stains near the base, shut off power and water immediately, then contact Total Comfort Plumbing for emergency repair or replacement.

“When a water heater leaks, time matters,” our Daytona Beach emergency plumbers warn. “Quick action can save floors, walls, and property from major water damage.”

How to Troubleshoot Safely (Before Calling a Plumber)

If you’re comfortable doing some light troubleshooting, try these safe checks before booking a service:

1. Check the Power or Gas SupplyEnsure the water heater’s breaker or gas valve is in the ON position.

2. Inspect the Pilot LightFor gas models, look through the viewing window to confirm the flame is burning steadily.

3. Listen for Strange NoisesBanging or popping sounds usually indicate sediment buildup, not a serious mechanical issue (yet).

4. Check Water Temperature SettingsSet your thermostat to around 120°F — higher can cause scalding, while lower may not heat enough.

5. Flush the Tank (If You’re Handy)Draining a few gallons from the tank can help remove minor sediment.

If you notice leaks, smell gas, or suspect electrical issues, stop troubleshooting and call a professional.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Even the best-maintained water heaters have a lifespan — typically 8 to 12 years for traditional tanks, and up to 20 years for tankless models.

Consider replacement if:

• Your system is more than 10 years old

• You’re calling for frequent repairs

• Energy bills are rising without explanation

• You notice visible corrosion or rust

At Total Comfort Plumbing, we help homeowners choose efficient, long-lasting replacements — including tankless water heater installations that deliver endless hot water and lower energy costs.

Benefits of Regular Water Heater Maintenance

Annual maintenance is the best way to keep your water heater efficient, safe, and long-lasting.

Our routine service includes:

• Full tank inspection and flushing

• Thermostat and heating element testing

• Pressure relief valve checks

• Leak detection and tightening fittings

• Anode rod replacement (to prevent corrosion)

These steps help your unit run efficiently while preventing costly surprises.

Why Choose Total Comfort Plumbing

For over a decade, Total Comfort Plumbing has been helping Florida homeowners enjoy reliable hot water year-round.

When you call our Volusia County plumbers, you get:

• Licensed, insured, and background-checked technicians

• Same-day and emergency water heater service

• Honest, upfront pricing

• Expertise with all brands and models (tank and tankless)

• 100% satisfaction guaranteed

Whether you need a quick repair or a full system replacement, we’re the team to trust in Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach, and Port Orange.

If your water heater isn’t working, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. A simple repair could restore your comfort — and prevent costly damage.

Call (386) 944-8999 or schedule your service online with Total Comfort Plumbing, your trusted experts for water heater repair in Volusia County and beyond.

Stay warm, stay safe, and keep your home running smoothly with professional plumbing you can count on.ciency and upgrades, ideal for both homeowner engagement and SEO conversion.