If you're experiencing issues with your water heater turning off, you're not alone. This is a common problem that many homeowners face. But why does it happen? There are several potential reasons why your water heater keeps turning off, including a faulty thermostat, a dirty pilot light, or a buildup of sediment in the tank.

At Wilson Plumbing, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with a malfunctioning water heater. That's why we offer comprehensive plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric services to homeowners in Northeast Ohio. Our team of experienced technicians can diagnose the issue with your water heater and provide prompt, effective solutions to get it back up and running as quickly as possible.

Whether you need a simple repair or a full replacement, you can count on Wilson Plumbing to provide top-quality service and reliable solutions. With over 60 years of experience serving the Northeast Ohio community, we're the best choice for all your plumbing and HVAC needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your water heater back in working order.

Common Causes of Water Heater Shutdowns

If you're experiencing issues with your water heater, there are several possible causes. Here are some of the most common reasons why your water heater may be shutting down:

Faulty Thermostats

One of the most common causes of water heater shutdowns is a faulty thermostat. If the thermostat is not functioning properly, it may shut off the heating element before the water has reached the desired temperature. This can result in lukewarm water or no hot water at all. At Wilson Plumbing, we can help diagnose and replace faulty thermostats to get your water heater up and running again.

Malfunctioning Heating Elements

Another common cause of water heater shutdowns is malfunctioning heating elements. If the heating element is not working properly, it may not be able to heat the water to the desired temperature, resulting in a lack of hot water. At Wilson Plumbing, we can inspect and replace malfunctioning heating elements to get your water heater working properly again.

Gas Supply Issues

Gas water heaters rely on a steady supply of gas to keep the pilot light lit and the burner firing. If there is an issue with the gas supply, such as a blockage or insufficient gas flow, the pilot light may go out, causing the water heater to shut down. At Wilson Plumbing, we can inspect and repair gas supply issues to keep your water heater functioning properly.

Sediment Build-Up

Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment can cause a variety of issues, including reduced heating efficiency and even tank failure. Regular maintenance, including flushing the tank to remove sediment, can help prevent these issues. At Wilson Plumbing, we offer water heater maintenance services to keep your water heater running smoothly.

If you're experiencing issues with your water heater, contact Wilson Plumbing today. Our team of experienced plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians can diagnose and repair any issues with your water heater, as well as provide maintenance services to keep it running smoothly. Trust us to be your go-to experts for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric in Northeast Ohio.

Electrical Considerations

If you have an electric water heater, there are a few electrical considerations that could be causing it to turn off. In this section, we'll explore two common electrical issues that could be causing your water heater to turn off: circuit breaker trips and wiring and power supply issues.

Circuit Breaker Trips

If your water heater keeps turning off, it could be due to a tripped circuit breaker. A circuit breaker is designed to trip when it detects an overload or short circuit in the electrical circuit. When this happens, the circuit breaker shuts off power to the water heater to prevent damage or electrical fires.

To check if a circuit breaker has tripped, go to your electrical panel and look for the circuit breaker that controls your water heater. If the breaker has tripped, reset it by flipping it to the "off" position and then to the "on" position. If the breaker trips again after resetting it, you may have a more serious electrical issue that requires the attention of a professional electrician.

Wiring and Power Supply

Another possible cause of your electric water heater turning off is a problem with the wiring or power supply. Over time, the wiring in your water heater can become damaged or frayed, which can cause the electrical connection to fail. Additionally, power supply issues, such as a blown fuse, can cause your water heater to turn off.

If you suspect that your water heater is turning off due to a wiring or power supply issue, it's important to contact a professional electrician. Attempting to fix electrical issues on your own can be dangerous and can result in serious injury or damage to your property.

At Wilson Plumbing, we understand the importance of a properly functioning water heater. That's why we offer comprehensive plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric services to our customers in Northeast Ohio. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality service and ensuring that your water heater is functioning at its best. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Gas Water Heater Specifics

If you have a gas water heater, there are a few specific issues that could be causing it to turn off. In this section, we'll discuss the most common issues and how to fix them.

Pilot Light and Thermocouple Issues

The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner in your water heater. If the pilot light goes out, your water heater won't be able to heat water. One common reason for a pilot light to go out is a problem with the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out.

If your pilot light keeps going out, it could be due to a dirty pilot tube or a faulty thermocouple. To fix a dirty pilot tube, you can use compressed air or a small brush to clean it out. If the thermocouple is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

Ventilation and Airflow Problems

Your gas water heater needs proper ventilation and airflow to function correctly. If there is not enough air inlet or if the air inlet is blocked, your water heater may shut off. This could be due to a dirty air inlet or a blocked vent.

To fix a dirty air inlet, you can use a brush or vacuum to clean it out. If the vent is blocked, you may need to call a professional to help you clear it.

Wilson Plumbing is the best option for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric in Northeast Ohio. With over 60 years of experience, our team of experts can help you with any plumbing or HVAC issue you may be experiencing. Contact us today for all your plumbing and HVAC needs.

Maintenance and Prevention

Regular maintenance and prevention can help keep your water heater running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some tips to help you keep your water heater in good condition:

Regular Inspections and Cleaning

Regular inspections and cleaning can help prevent problems with your water heater. You should inspect your water heater at least once a year to make sure it is working properly. Check for leaks, corrosion, and other signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning your water heater is also important. Over time, sediment can build up in the tank, which can reduce efficiency and cause your water heater to work harder than it needs to. Flushing your water heater once a year can help remove sediment and keep your water heater running efficiently.

Professional Servicing

While regular maintenance can help prevent problems, it is also important to have your water heater serviced by a professional plumber at least once every few years. A professional plumber can inspect your water heater for signs of wear and tear, make any necessary repairs, and help ensure that your water heater is running as efficiently as possible.

At Wilson Plumbing, we offer a range of plumbing services, including water heater maintenance and repair. Our team of professional plumbers has the experience and expertise to help keep your water heater running smoothly and efficiently. We are committed to providing the highest quality service and the best possible value to our customers in Northeast Ohio.

Regular maintenance and prevention can help keep your water heater running smoothly and efficiently, and professional servicing can help ensure that your water heater is in good condition. Contact Wilson Plumbing today to learn more about our water heater services and how we can help keep your water heater in top condition.

When to Repair or Replace

If your water heater keeps turning off, you may wonder whether it's time to repair or replace it. The decision depends on several factors, including the age of your water heater, the extent of the damage, and the cost of repair versus replacement.

Lifespan

Water heaters typically last between 8 and 12 years, depending on factors such as usage and maintenance. If your water heater is approaching or exceeding its expected lifespan, it may be time to consider replacement.

Corrosion

Corrosion is a common problem with water heaters, especially in areas with hard water. If the tank or pipes show signs of corrosion, such as rust or leaks, it may be time to replace the unit.

Leaks

Leaks can occur for a variety of reasons, including corrosion, loose connections, and high water pressure. If the leak is minor and can be repaired easily, it may be worth repairing the water heater. However, if the leak is severe or the tank is damaged, it's best to replace the unit.

Tankless Water Heater

If you have a tankless water heater, the decision to repair or replace may depend on the extent of the damage. Tankless water heaters are generally more expensive to repair than traditional water heaters, so if the damage is significant, it may be more cost-effective to replace the unit.

Repair or Replace

In general, if the cost of repair is more than 50% of the cost of a new water heater, it's best to replace the unit. However, if the damage is minor and can be repaired easily, it may be worth repairing the water heater.

Wilson Plumbing is your best option for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric in Northeast Ohio. Our experienced technicians can help you determine whether it's best to repair or replace your water heater. Contact us today for a consultation.