Lost your hot water or found a puddle under the tank? Try these safe checks first — and learn the signs it’s time to call a pro.
Few things start the day worse than a cold shower. Before you assume the worst, a few quick checks can tell you whether you’ve got a simple fix or a job for a plumber. Here’s how to troubleshoot a water heater safely.
First, a safety note: if you ever smell gas near a gas water heater, leave the house and call 911 — don’t troubleshoot.
| No hot water and not sure why? A licensed, insured local plumber can help 24/7: Call (734) 579-2555 (available 24/7) |
1. Start with the simple checks
For an electric water heater, check whether the breaker has tripped and reset it once. For a gas unit, make sure the pilot light or electronic igniter is lit and the gas is on. On either type, confirm the thermostat is set to a reasonable temperature (around 120°F). And ask the obvious question — did the household just use a lot of hot water back-to-back? The tank may simply need time to recover.
2. Gas vs. electric: what’s different
Electric heaters use heating elements that burn out over time; if a breaker keeps tripping, an element or thermostat may have failed. Gas heaters rely on a pilot or igniter and a thermocouple — a pilot that won’t stay lit is a common, fixable problem, but one best handled carefully.
If your water heater is leaking
| Safety: A puddle under the tank is a warning sign. Shut off the water supply to the heater and turn off its power (breaker) or gas. A tank that’s leaking from the body itself — not just a fitting — usually means the tank has corroded through and needs replacement. Call a plumber before it fails completely. |
3. Discolored, smelly or rumbling water
Rusty or rotten-egg-smelling hot water, or a rumbling/popping tank, often points to sediment buildup — common with Michigan’s hard water. Flushing the tank can help, but recurring issues may signal the heater is near the end of its life.
| Not a DIY job? A licensed, insured local plumber can take it from here. Call (734) 579-2555 (available 24/7) |
4. Repair or replace?
Most tank water heaters last 8 to 12 years. If yours is in that range and showing rust, leaks, or repeated problems, replacement is often smarter than another repair. A plumber can compare the cost of fixing your unit against a new, more efficient one.
5. When to call a plumber
Call a pro if the unit is leaking, the pilot won’t stay lit, you’ve reset the breaker and still have no hot water, or you simply aren’t comfortable working around gas or electrical connections. The Sun Times News keeps a 24/7 line to vetted local plumbers.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a water heater last?
Most traditional tank water heaters last about 8 to 12 years. Tankless units can last longer. Hard water and skipped maintenance shorten that lifespan.
Why did I suddenly lose all hot water?
Common causes include a tripped breaker or failed element (electric), a pilot light or igniter that’s gone out (gas), or a tank that can’t keep up after heavy use. A leak or failed thermostat can also be to blame.
Is a leaking water heater an emergency?
It can be. Shut off the water and power or gas to the unit and call a plumber promptly — a leaking tank can fail and flood the area.
Who do I call for water heater problems?
For 24/7 plumbing help from a licensed local pro, call (734) 579-2555.
| Don’t let a small leak become a big repair. Reach a licensed, insured local plumber: Call (734) 579-2555 (available 24/7) |
Last updated June 2026. This guide is general information for Washtenaw County homeowners and isn’t a substitute for professional, safety, or insurance advice. In an emergency, call 911.
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