No hot water, a puddle under the tank or hot water that smells like rotten eggs. These guides cover tank and tankless heaters, gas and electric, and tell you which checks are safe and which jobs belong to a licensed pro.
Common water heater problems
-
Hot Water Smells Like Rotten Eggs: Water Heater Anode and Bacteria
A rotten-egg smell only in hot water usually comes from the water heater: sulfur bacteria and a reaction with the magnesium anode rod. How to…
-
No Hot Water in the House: Electric and Gas Water Heater Causes
No hot water usually means the heater lost power or gas, a heating element or thermostat failed, or the pilot is out. What to check…
-
Water Heater Leaking From the Bottom, Top or Relief Valve
Where the water heater leaks tells you how serious it is: fittings and valves can be repaired, a leaking tank means replacement, and water from…
Before you start
Safety first: if you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility from outside. Water from the temperature and pressure relief valve means the tank is overheating or over-pressurized; turn the heater off and call a plumber.