Nothing is as disappointing as waking up to a cold shower when you expected a nice hot shower to get your day started. Water heater problems are just another part of life. Learning how to troubleshoot water heater problems and fix them is a great way to save money and get your hot water back quickly so you can get on with your day. 

1. When there is no hot water 

Lack of hot water can be due to various reasons. You may have run out of water because too much water was used at once. You may need to make some lifestyle changes or talk to household members to ensure that there is enough hot water for everyone. An alternative is to have a larger water heater installed. 

Lack of hot water during winter may be the result of frozen pipes. Check the pipes in your attic, garage or basement for freezing. Invest in pipe insulation and install insulation on sections of piping that are exposed. Ensure that garage doors and basement doors remain shut to prevent a dip in indoor temperature. 

Your unit may also not be heating water because it is in need of maintenance. Drain the system of water and repeat this at least once a year. If you have been maintaining your system properly and it is over 15 years old, it may be time to invest in a replacement. 

2. When the water is too hot 

Is the water in the faucet or shower too hot? You should check the thermostat on your unit. The temperature may be set too high. If this is the case, turn it down a few degrees and turn the water on to see if the temperature has gone down. It is recommended that you set your water heater to about 120 degrees Fahrenheit for safety and optimum water temperature. 

If you have an electric water heater, your unit may have two thermostats. Check both to ensure they are set at the right temperature. You can check your manual for instruction on adjusting the thermostat for your water heater model. Be sure to turn the unit off before you set it and turn it back on when you’re done. 

3. The water pressure is too low 

Another common problem with water heaters is low water pressure. Check your mains water pressure valve to ensure that there is enough water pressure. Check your cold water faucet and hot water faucet for water pressure. If there is low water pressure only in the hot water faucet, then the issue is with your water heater. 

Check the pressure relief valve. This is the valve that is shaped like a bell. Adjust the valve by turning the screw. You can increase pressure by tightening the screw or turning it clockwise. If the valve is broken, you will need to replace it. 

Check the water shut-off valve too. Adjust it to ensure that it is completely open for maximum water pressure. 

Check the floor around your water heater and along the pipes for indications of a leak. Dripping water, cracks or condensation are all indications of a leak. You will need to repair the pipes to improve water pressure.