What Should I Do If My Water Heater Is Not Producing Hot Water?

If your water heater isn’t producing hot water, verify a safe power or gas supply and confirm the thermostat is set correctly; if heat doesn’t return, call a licensed technician. Most no-hot-water issues come from a tripped breaker, an extinguished pilot/igniter problem, or a failed heating element. Internal part failures and control errors are common and usually repairable; a leaking tank or repeated lockouts point toward replacement. Our licensed team serves homes across the Roanoke Valley, including Salem, with 24/7 emergency help when leaks or overflow can’t wait. We also provide same-day free estimates for water heater repair or replacement.

If it’s safe, try these quick checks:

• Electric: check the breaker, then press the high‑limit reset under the upper panel.
• Gas: make sure the gas valve is on; relight the pilot per the unit’s label (skip if electronic ignition).
• Confirm the cold-water inlet valve is fully open and purge air by running a hot tap.
• Tankless: clear error codes and clean the inlet screen/filter.

If you smell gas or a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, leave immediately and call 911 before contacting a pro.

Updated: 2026-04-05

Need help in Salem, VA? Call (540) 238-0320 or book online.