Decide how fast you need help
- IfYou smell gas near the heaterThenLeave the house and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside. Do not relight anything.
- IfWater is leaking from the tankThenClose the cold supply, turn off gas or power and see the water heater leak guide.
- IfNo hot water, no leak, no smellThenRun through the basic checks below. If they do not help, a next-day repair is usually fine.
- IfHot water runs out quickly or is lukewarmThenOften sediment, a failing element or a thermostat issue. Schedule a regular visit.
Basic checks you can do safely
Stop at any step you are not comfortable with. Follow the instructions printed on the heater label.
- Gas tank heater: look at the pilot.Many older heaters have a small viewing window. If the pilot is out, follow the relighting steps on the label. If it will not stay lit, stop and call a plumber.
- Electric tank heater: check the breaker.A tripped breaker is a common cause. Reset it once. If it trips again, leave it off and call a licensed plumber or electrician.
- Tankless heater: check for an error code.Most units show a code on the front panel. Note it and look it up in the manual before calling, since it helps the plumber.
- Check the gas supply.If other gas appliances are not working either, the problem may be the gas service. Contact SoCalGas.
Hard water and La Habra water heaters
The hard water common across North Orange County leaves mineral sediment at the bottom of tank heaters. Over time that layer can insulate the water from the burner, cause popping noises and reduce how much hot water the tank delivers. In electric heaters, sediment can bury the lower element and cause it to fail.
Tankless heaters are affected too. Scale builds up inside the heat exchanger, which can trigger error codes and reduce flow. Many manufacturers recommend periodic descaling, especially in hard water areas.
Common causes and what they usually need
| Symptom | Possible cause | Usually |
|---|---|---|
| No hot water, gas heater | Pilot out, thermocouple or gas valve issue | Repair visit |
| No hot water, electric heater | Tripped breaker, failed element or thermostat | Repair visit |
| Rumbling or popping | Sediment buildup | Flushing or evaluation of the tank |
| Rusty hot water | Corroding tank or anode | Evaluation; may point to replacement |
| Tankless error code | Scale, ignition, venting or gas supply | Service by a qualified plumber |
What to ask the plumber
- Is this a repair, or is the heater near the end of its life?
- Would flushing or descaling help with our hard water?
- If replacement makes sense, will the new heater be seismically strapped and permitted?
Common questions
Is it safe to relight my water heater pilot?
Only if there is no gas smell and you follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label. If you are unsure, wait for a plumber.
How often should a tank water heater be flushed?
Recommendations vary by manufacturer and water hardness. Check the manual and ask a plumber what makes sense for La Habra's hard water.
Can a lack of hot water damage anything?
Usually not by itself. The concern is the cause, such as a leak or a gas problem.
General information for La Habra, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.