No Hot Water in Shower? Fix it Yourself in Minutes!

Let’s face it, a cold shower is the last thing you want on a chilly morning. But before you resign yourself to shivering showers, don’t worry! In many cases, a lack of hot water in your shower can be easily fixed without calling a plumber. This guide will walk you through common troubleshooting steps you can try yourself to fix no hot water in the shower, while also highlighting when it’s best to call in a professional.

Understanding the Problem:

There are several reasons why you might not be getting hot water in your shower. The issue could lie with your water heater, shower valve, or even a simple shutoff valve being accidentally closed. By following these steps, we can identify the culprit and hopefully get your hot water flowing again in no time.

Remember: Safety first! If you’re unsure about any part of the process, or for complex repairs, always err on the side of caution and call a licensed plumber.

Before we dive in, a quick note: Always turn off the water supply to your water heater before attempting any troubleshooting steps. This is usually a valve located near the base of the unit. Additionally, for gas water heaters, ensure the gas supply valve is also turned off. Now, let’s get started!

1. Check the Water Heater Thermostat: The culprit might be as simple as a thermostat set too low. Most water heaters have an adjustable thermostat dial. Locate the thermostat on your water heater (usually near the top) and ensure it’s set to your desired temperature, typically between 49°C and 60°C. If the thermostat is set low, simply adjust it to a higher setting and wait 30-45 minutes for the water to heat up.
2. Check the Circuit Breaker: If you have an electric water heater, the issue could be a tripped circuit breaker. Locate your home’s main electrical panel and identify the breaker labelled “water heater.” If it’s in the “off” position, carefully flip it back to “on.” Wait a few minutes and check if the water heater kicks back in. Important: If the breaker trips again after resetting, don’t keep flipping it. This could indicate a more serious electrical issue, and it’s best to call a qualified electrician to diagnose and fix the problem.
3. Re-light the Pilot Light (Gas Water Heaters Only): If you have a gas water heater, the pilot light might have gone out. Locate the access panel to the pilot light (usually near the bottom of the unit) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting it. This typically involves holding down a reset button while igniting the pilot light with a match or designated lighter. Safety Warning: If you’re not comfortable relighting the pilot light, or if it repeatedly goes out, it’s crucial to call a licensed gas fitter to ensure your safety and avoid potential gas leaks.
4. Check the Tempering Valve or Anti-Scald Device: Not all homes have one of these but if you do we recommend that you check it to ensure that it isn’t set too high, limiting the hot water flow to the shower

Bonus Tip: Mitchell Hook a licensed plumber who specialises in Hot Water Repairs states “Another possible cause of no hot water in a shower could be mineral build-up in the hot water line going to the shower. There have been occasions where we have flushed out the line to clear any mineral deposits and this has resolved the issue.”

• Reset the High-Limit Switch: This safety feature can trip if the water temperature gets too high. Locate the high-limit switch on your water heater (usually a red button) and press it to reset. If the switch trips repeatedly, it could indicate a faulty heating element or other internal issue, and professional help is recommended.
• Replace Faulty Heating Elements: While not a beginner-friendly fix, replacing a faulty heating element can restore hot water functionality. However, this process requires electrical knowledge and caution. If you’re comfortable with electrical work, consult your water heater manual and proceed with caution. Otherwise, it’s safer and often more efficient to call a licensed plumber to handle the replacement.

• Addressing Gas Valve Issues: If you suspect a problem with the gas valve, such as a leak or difficulty turning it on/off, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Gas leaks are dangerous and require immediate attention from a qualified gas fitter. Contact a professional plumber immediately to diagnose and address the issue safely.
• Thermocouple Issues: The thermocouple is a crucial component in gas water heaters, responsible for sensing the pilot light and regulating gas flow. If the thermocouple is faulty, the pilot light might not stay lit, resulting in no hot water. While some advanced DIYers might attempt thermocouple replacement, it’s usually safer and more efficient to call a licensed plumber due to the delicate nature of gas appliances and potential safety risks.

Remember: When in doubt, always err on the side of safety and call a qualified plumber. They possess the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix complex water heater issues efficiently and safely, saving you time, frustration, and potential hazards.

While this guide offers some troubleshooting steps you can attempt, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety above all else. Here’s when it’s best to call a professional plumber:

1. Feeling Uncomfortable or Unsure: If you’re unsure about any step in the troubleshooting process, or if you feel uncomfortable working with electrical wiring or gas appliances, do not hesitate to call a licensed plumber. Their expertise and experience ensure the work is done safely and effectively.
2. Potentially Dangerous Fixes: Certain tasks, like replacing heating elements in electric water heaters or addressing gas valve issues, are best left to professionals. These repairs involve working with electricity or gas, which can be dangerous if not handled correctly.
3. Persistent Issues: If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps and your water heater still isn’t functioning properly, or if the problem keeps recurring, it’s time to call a professional for diagnosis and repair. They can identify the root cause of the issue and implement the most suitable solution.
4. Complex Repairs: Any repairs involving the internal components of your water heater, particularly for gas models, are best handled by a licensed plumber. They possess the necessary knowledge, tools, and experience to handle complex repairs safely and efficiently.

Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, it’s essential to turn off the water supply and gas supply (if applicable) to your water heater. This crucial step minimises the risk of water damage, electrical shock, or gas leaks.

• Locate the water shutoff valve near the base of your water heater.
• Turn the valve clockwise (usually a quarter turn) until it stops, shutting off the water flow.

• Locate the gas shutoff valve near the gas line connecting to your water heater.
• Turn the valve handle perpendicular to the pipe (usually a quarter turn) to shut off the gas supply.

Remember: Safety is paramount. If you’re unsure about any step, or if you encounter any issues during the process, don’t hesitate to call a qualified plumber. They’ll ensure your water heater is repaired safely and efficiently, restoring your hot water comfort in no time.

Yes, a shower valve can typically be repaired. Common issues that can be fixed include leaks, temperature control problems, and water pressure issues. Repairing a shower valve often involves replacing worn-out parts like washers, seals, or cartridges. It is recommended to consult a professional plumber for accurate diagnosis and repair to ensure the shower valve functions properly in your bathroom.

To locate your shower mixing valve, you will typically find it behind the shower handle. The mixing valve is responsible for controlling the flow of water, adjusting the temperature, and turning the water on and off. If you are facing issues with your shower mixing valve, such as pressure problems or temperature fluctuations, it may be necessary to replace it. Replacing a shower mixing valve involves removing the old valve, fitting the new one in place, and connecting it to the existing plumbing. Accessing the valve can be done either from inside the shower stall or from the wall outside the bathroom. If you are not experienced with this type of repair work, it is advisable to consult a professional plumber to ensure the proper installation and functionality of the new mixing valve.