Water Heater Troubleshooting: A Homeowner’s Guide  

Before You Start: An Important Safety Note

Here are some tips for handling a few of the most common water heater problems you might run into. While certain issues can be checked or resolved safely at home, it’s important to know your limits. If you can’t solve the problem, or if you’re unsure about what’s causing it, contact Enercare to have one of our licensed technicians diagnose and repair your water heater for you. Your safety, and your home comfort, are always our top priorities. 

Common Water Heater Problems & Solutions

Water heaters work hard every day, so it’s no surprise they can run into issues. Knowing the signs — and what to do next — can save you time, money and unnecessary stress. Here are some of the most common problems homeowners face and how to address them: 

No hot water

• Gas models: Check that the pilot light is lit. If it’s out, relight it according to your manufacturer’s instructions. If it won’t stay lit, the thermocouple or gas control valve may need professional attention. 

• Electric models: Ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If it has, reset it. If the breaker keeps tripping, an electrical fault may be to blame. Call a licensed technician for further support.

Water is too hot or not hot enough

• Ensure the temperature dial is set according to the manufacturer’s literature. If the temperature doesn’t change, the thermostat or heating element may need replacing. 

• If water is too hot, ensure the temperature dial is set according to the manufacturer’s literature. If the temperature doesn’t change, a mixing valve (external to the water heater) may be required. Call Enercare for a quote.

Leaking water heater

• Even small leaks can lead to serious damage. Check connections, valves and the tank itself. If the leak is coming from the tank, it likely needs replacing. Please call a professional immediately. 

Dirty or smelly water

• Rust-coloured water could mean internal corrosion, while a rotten egg smell might indicate bacteria buildup. Flushing the tank can help, but ongoing issues may require further repairs or a new unit. 

For any problem you can’t resolve safely on your own, Enercare’s licensed technicians are here with expert diagnostics and reliable repairs to get your hot water back on track, quickly. 

Pilot doesn’t light or goes out (gas-fired water heaters)

• If the pilot light won’t relight, it’s time to call a licensed technician to safely inspect and repair the unit. 

Burner goes out (gas-fired water heaters)

• If the burner goes out, a licensed technician can diagnose the issue and ensure it’s repaired safely. 

Running out of hot water

• For gas water heaters: If you’re not getting any hot water — or it’s running out faster than usual — the cause could be as simple as a pilot or burner issue. 
• For electric/power vented heaters: Check your home’s breaker panel to see if the breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown. Reset or replace it if needed. If the heater still doesn’t produce hot water, the heating element may need replacing. Call an expert to finish this repair. 
• If you’re suddenly running out of hot water: If your hot water isn’t lasting as long as it used to, start by checking for leaks around the base of the tank and have any issues fixed immediately. If there’s no sign of leaking, flush the tank to clear out sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency. Ensure temperature dial is set according to the manufacturers literature.

Water leaks

• If you notice a leak in your tank or pipes, switch off the water heater and shut off your home’s main water supply. Arrange to have the damaged parts repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage. 

Water takes too long to heat

• This often happens when water hasn’t been used for a while: cold water enters the tank and reaches your taps before it’s fully heated.  

Water is too hot

• The most common reason for this problem is a thermostat that’s set too high. Lower it to a safe temperature as a first step. If the water remains too hot, you see steam from the faucets or hear boiling inside the tank, contact an expert to replace the switch. 

Low water pressure

• Call an expert to locate and replace any clogged pipes. 

Dirty or smell water

• This often means the anode rod inside your tank is wearing out, which can cause corrosion and allow bacteria to develop. A water heater technician may be able to replace the rod, but in some cases, it could be time for a full water heater replacement. 

Tank makes noises

• It’s normal for water heaters to make some noise, but unusually loud or strange sounds can signal a problem. A water heater technician can inspect the unit, identify the cause, and recommend the right fix.

The Importance of Routine Water Heater Maintenance

Regular maintenance is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your water heater running efficiently to avoid unexpected breakdowns. A clean, clutter-free area around the unit helps ensure proper airflow and makes it easier to spot potential issues early. Take time to check for any signs of rust, corrosion or leaks, as these can quickly lead to bigger problems if left untreated. By keeping up with these small but important tasks, you can extend your water heater’s lifespan, maintain its efficiency and help prevent costly repairs down the road. 

Regular maintenance is one of the most effective ways to avoid common water heater issues and keep your unit running smoothly. As our Buyer’s Guide states: 

“Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid problems and keep your water heater performing at its best. Keep your water heater and the area around it clean, and keep an eye out for any signs of corrosion or leakage.”– Enercare 

Here’s why that matters: 

• Clean surroundings help ensure proper airflow and prevent fire hazards—especially important for gas-powered units. 

• Corrosion or rust around the tank or fittings may indicate internal wear—spotting it early can prevent bigger issues. 

• Leaks, even minor ones, can lead to water damage or forcing your system to work harder. 
   

A little cleaning, regular maintenance and staying aware of rust or drips can significantly extend your water heater’s life. Doing these simple upkeep tasks today can save you from surprise repairs tomorrow. If you can’t solve your water heater problem yourself, contact Enercare to have a licensed technician repair your water heater for you.  

Understanding Red-Tagged Equipment (Gas-Fired Water Heaters)

In some cases, a licensed technician may find a problem with your gas-fired water heater that makes it unsafe to use. When this happens, they may issue what’s known as a Warning tag/Safety Violation— an official notice that the equipment poses a safety risk and must be shut off until the problem is fixed. 

A Warning tag can be issued for a range of reasons, such as a gas leak, a blocked vent or damage that could cause carbon monoxide to leak into your home. In Ontario, gas technicians are legally required to issue a Warning tag/Safety Violation on unsafe equipment to protect you and your household. Depending on the severity, your water heater may be turned off immediately (Type A Warning tag) or you may be given a set period of time to repair it before it’s disconnected (Type B Warning tag). 

If your water heater has been red tagged, it’s important not to ignore it. Enercare’s guide to Warning Tag/Safety violation for –tagged gas appliances explains the process in detail and outlines the steps you should take. Our licensed technicians can diagnose the issue, provide safe, compliant repairs and get your hot water running again as quickly as possible.

Type A tag: immediate danger

Your equipment poses an immediate danger, and your natural gas will be shut off to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning or other hazards. 

Type B tag: urgent but less immediate

An issue that’s less urgent, but still needs to be addressed within 30 days. 

What to do if you receive a tag

Time to call our water heater experts. One of our licensed technicians will assess your equipment and advise you on next steps to ensure you stay safe and comfortable. 

When to Call the Experts: Your Enercare Solution

Some water heater issues can be safely checked at home, but when it comes to gas or electrical components, leaks or persistent problems, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Enercare’s licensed technicians have the training, tools and experience to diagnose issues accurately, perform safe and effective repairs and help you decide when it’s time for a replacement. 

We’re here to keep your hot water flowing — and your home comfortable — with expert service you can trust. 

To learn more about water heaters, read our 2025 Buyer’s Guide to Water Heaters. 

To book a free in-home assessment and get advice about a new water heater, call us at 1-844-630-3930 or fill out this form to request a free in-home assessment and price quote.