What to Do When Your Water Heater Stops Working

When your water heater stops working, it can be a big problem—especially when you’re looking forward to a hot shower! At Hudson Plumbing, we know how frustrating this can be. That’s why we’ve put together a simple guide to help you know what to do next.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Check the Basics

First, don’t panic. Sometimes the fix is simple. If you have a gas water heater, check to see if the pilot light is out. If you have an electric unit, check the breaker box to make sure the power hasn’t tripped. You’d be surprised how often this solves the problem.

Step 2: Check the Thermostat

Your water heater has a thermostat that controls how hot the water gets. If it’s been bumped or turned down by accident, you might not be getting hot water. Try turning it up a little and waiting 30-60 minutes to see if that helps.

Step 3: Look for Leaks or Rust

Walk around your water heater and look for any puddles or signs of rust. Leaking water or rust-colored stains could mean your tank is damaged. This usually means it’s time for a repair—or even a replacement.

Step 4: Listen for Strange Sounds

Do you hear popping, banging, or rumbling? That could mean sediment has built up inside your tank. Over time, this can make your water heater work harder, raise your energy bills, or even cause the system to stop working altogether.

Step 5: Call Hudson Plumbing

If you’ve checked all of the above and still don’t have hot water, it’s time to call in the pros. At Hudson Plumbing, we handle all types of water heater problems, from simple fixes to full replacements. We serve homes in Martinsville, Bloomington, Bedford, and nearby areas.

Don’t Wait – Get Hot Water Back Fast

A broken water heater isn’t something you should ignore. It can cause damage to your home or increase your utility bills. Trust in us to diagnose the issue and get your hot water flowing again—quickly and safely.

Need Help?

Give Hudson Plumbing a call today. We’re here for you when your water heater isn’t!