Hot water is one of the modern conveniences we often take for granted until it’s gone. When your hot water heater isn’t working, it can be a major inconvenience. If you’re experiencing a lack of hot water, the first step is to troubleshoot the problem. One possible cause is that the hot water heater has been turned off. In this article, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to turn on a hot water heater, regardless of the type you have.
Before you begin, it’s important to identify the type of hot water heater you have. There are two main types: gas and electric. Gas water heaters have a pilot light that needs to be lit, while electric water heaters simply need to be plugged in.
Once you’ve identified the type of hot water heater you have, follow the steps below to turn it on:
- Gas water heater:
- Locate the pilot light assembly. This is usually a small metal box with a glass window on the front.
- Turn the gas control knob to the "Pilot" setting.
- Press the igniter button and hold it down for 30 seconds.
- Look through the glass window to see if the pilot light is lit.
- If the pilot light is not lit, repeat steps 2-4.
- Once the pilot light is lit, turn the gas control knob to the "On" setting.
- Electric water heater:
- Locate the circuit breaker or fuse that powers the water heater.
- Turn the breaker or fuse to the "On" position.
- Check the water heater’s thermostat. The thermostat should be set to the desired temperature.
- Turn on the water tap to allow water to flow through the heater.
- The water should start to warm up within a few minutes.
Identifying the Type of Water Heater
Hot water heaters come in various types, each with its own unique characteristics and operating mechanisms. Identifying the type of water heater you have is crucial for understanding its functionality and performing maintenance or repairs. There are three main types of water heaters: gas, electric, and tankless.
Gas Water Heater
Gas water heaters utilize natural gas or propane to heat water. They are typically larger than electric water heaters and require a gas line connection. Gas water heaters are generally more efficient and have a lower operating cost compared to electric models, but they also require proper ventilation and safety precautions.
Electric Water Heater
Electric water heaters use electricity to heat water. They are smaller in size than gas water heaters and do not require a gas line connection. Electric water heaters are relatively easy to install and maintain, but they are less efficient than gas water heaters and have higher operating costs in areas with high electricity rates.
Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters, also known as instant or on-demand water heaters, heat water directly when it is needed. They do not store hot water in a tank, eliminating standby heat loss and providing an endless supply of hot water. Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional storage-tank water heaters and can save space due to their compact design.
| Water Heater Type | Fuel Source | Efficiency | Operating Cost | Space Requirements |
|—|—|—|—|—|
| Gas | Natural gas or propane | High | Lower | Larger |
| Electric | Electricity | Lower | Higher | Smaller |
| Tankless | Gas or electricity | High | Variable | Compact |
Safety Precautions Before Turning On
Check the Water Supply
Before turning on the water heater, ensure that the cold water supply is connected and turned on. This is crucial to prevent the heating element from overheating and causing damage to the unit. Check the water inlet valve and make sure it’s fully open to allow water to flow into the tank. If the valve is closed or partially open, the water heater won’t be able to fill up and heat the water effectively.
Inspect the Gas Line
If your water heater is gas-powered, thoroughly inspect the gas line for any leaks or damage. Gas leaks can be extremely hazardous and should be addressed immediately. Check the connections at both ends of the gas line, as well as any other fittings or valves along its length. If you detect a gas odor or suspect a leak, evacuate your home and call a qualified gas technician as soon as possible. Avoid attempting to repair gas leaks yourself.
Verify Electrical Connections
For electric water heaters, it’s essential to ensure that the electrical connections are secure and properly grounded. Loose or damaged connections can cause electrical hazards, such as short circuits or fires. Check the electrical panel and make sure the circuit breaker or fuse for the water heater is turned on. Inspect the wiring and terminals on the water heater, looking for any loose connections or frayed wires. If you’re not comfortable working with electricity, it’s advisable to consult a qualified electrician for assistance.
Locating the Power Source
Once you’ve identified the type of hot water heater you have, it’s time to locate the power source. Here’s a detailed guide for different types of heaters:
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters are typically powered by natural gas or propane. To locate the power source:
- Find the gas line that runs to the water heater.
- Locate the gas valve, which is typically a knob or lever near the bottom of the water heater.
- Check if the valve is turned to the “Open” or “On” position.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters are powered by electricity. To locate the power source:
- Find the electrical panel in your home, which is typically located in the basement, garage, or utility room.
- Locate the circuit breaker or fuse that is labeled for the water heater.
- Check if the circuit breaker is in the “On” position or if the fuse has not blown.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters are powered by the sun through solar panels. To locate the power source:
- Check the location of the solar panels on your roof or property.
- Identify the wires that run from the panels to the water heater.
- Inspect the wires and connections to ensure they are secure and not damaged.
Restoring Gas Supply for Gas Water Heaters
If you’ve recently had your gas service turned off, you’ll need to take a few steps to restore gas supply to your water heater:
1. Check the gas meter.
Make sure that the gas meter is turned on. The meter will have a small lever or handle that you can turn to the “on” position.
2. Open the gas valve.
The gas valve is usually located near the gas meter. Turn the valve to the “open” position.
3. Light the pilot light.
The pilot light is a small flame that keeps the gas burner lit. To light the pilot light, follow the instructions on the water heater’s label.
4. Reset the water heater.
Once the pilot light is lit, you need to reset the water heater. To do this, turn the water heater’s thermostat to the “off” position, then turn it back to the desired temperature. The water heater will now begin heating water.
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| No gas supply | Check gas meter and valve |
| Pilot light not lit | Follow instructions on water heater label |
| Water heater not reset | Turn thermostat to “off” then back to desired temperature |
Resetting the Circuit Breaker for Electric Water Heaters
If you’ve lost hot water and suspect a tripped circuit breaker, follow these steps to reset it:
1. Locate the Electrical Panel
Typically found in a basement, utility room, or garage, the electrical panel houses the circuit breakers for your home.
2. Identify the Water Heater Breaker
Look for a breaker labeled “Water Heater” or similar. If you’re unsure, refer to the panel diagram.
3. Turn Off the Breaker
Push the breaker all the way to the “Off” position.
4. Wait a Few Seconds
Allow a few seconds for the breaker to fully reset.
5. Turn the Breaker Back On
Push the breaker firmly all the way to the “On” position. Ensure it stays in place and doesn’t trip again. If the breaker trips again immediately, there may be a more serious electrical problem requiring professional attention.
Setting the Thermostat
The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in your hot water heater. It’s important to set the thermostat correctly to avoid scalding or wasting energy. Here are some guidelines:
- For most households, a setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) is sufficient.
- If you have small children or elderly people in your home, you may want to set the thermostat to a lower setting, such as 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius).
- If you have a dishwasher, you may need to set the thermostat to a higher setting, such as 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees Celsius).
- To adjust the thermostat, locate the knob or dial on the front of the water heater and turn it to the desired setting.
- Once you have set the thermostat, it’s a good idea to test the water temperature at your faucets to make sure it’s at the desired level.
- To maintain optimal efficiency and safety, it’s recommended to consider the following additional details:
| Temperature Range (°F) | Considerations |
|---|---|
| 120 – 130 | Suitable for most households, balancing safety and energy efficiency. |
| 110 – 115 | Recommended for homes with young children or elderly occupants for safety reasons. |
| 130 – 140 | Appropriate for households with dishwashers or those requiring higher water temperatures. |
| 140+ | Not recommended due to increased risk of scalding and energy waste. |
Lighting the Pilot Light (for Gas Water Heaters)
Lighting the pilot light is crucial for gas water heaters to generate hot water. Follow these detailed steps to ignite the pilot light safely and efficiently.
- Identify the Gas Valve: Locate the gas valve near the base of the water heater. It should have a knob or lever.
- Turn Off Gas: Turn the gas valve to the “OFF” position.
- Wait 5 Minutes: Allow any residual gas to dissipate.
- Remove the Access Panel: Open the access panel on the side or bottom of the water heater to expose the pilot light.
- Locate the Pilot Light: The pilot light is usually a small flame located near the gas burner.
- Press and Hold the Reset Button: Find the reset button near the pilot light and hold it down for 30-60 seconds.
- Light the Pilot Light: While holding down the reset button, use a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot light. Keep the button pressed for another 30 seconds to ignite the flame fully.
- Release the Reset Button: Once the pilot light is lit, release the reset button and check if the flame remains lit.
- Turn On the Gas: Slowly turn the gas valve to the “ON” position.
- Set the Temperature: Adjust the temperature dial to your desired water temperature.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- If the pilot light does not ignite, ensure that there is sufficient gas flow and that the gas valve is fully open.
- If the pilot light lights but goes out after releasing the reset button, check for obstructions in the gas line or a faulty thermocouple.
- If you encounter any difficulties, contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
Checking for Leaks
Before turning on your water heater, it’s crucial to check for leaks to avoid potential water damage. Here’s how to do it:
1. Visually Inspect the Water Heater
Look for any water drops, stains, or dampness around the base, joints, and pipes of the water heater. Use a flashlight to inspect dark or hard-to-reach areas.
2. Check the Drain Valve
Locate the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater and turn it slightly to check for any water leakage. If water flows out, the drain valve needs to be replaced.
3. Check the Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve (TPR Valve)
The TPR valve is designed to release excess pressure and temperature buildup in the water heater. Lift the lever on the TPR valve to ensure it’s not stuck and leaking water.
4. Check the Hot and Cold Water Lines
Inspect the connections between the hot and cold water lines and the water heater. Look for any loose fittings, damaged pipes, or water stains.
5. Check the Expansion Tank
If your water heater uses an expansion tank, inspect it for any leaks or damage. The expansion tank is usually connected to a cold water line near the water heater.
6. Check the Pipe Unions
Examine the pipe unions where the pipes connect to the water heater. Look for any loose fittings, drips, or corrosion.
7. Check the Electrical Connections
If your water heater is electric, inspect the electrical connections to ensure they are tight and free of corrosion or damage.
8. Detailed Leak Detection
For a more thorough leak detection, follow these additional steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a. | Turn off the water supply to the water heater. |
| b. | Open a hot water faucet in the house to release any remaining water pressure. |
| c. | Close the hot water faucet. |
| d. | Place a bucket or pan under the water heater to catch any leaks. |
| e. | Turn on the water supply to the water heater and wait for a few minutes. |
| f. | Check the bucket or pan for any leaks. If there is any water, the water heater has a leak and needs to be repaired or replaced. |
Monitoring Water Temperature
Monitoring the water temperature of your hot water heater is crucial for ensuring both safety and energy efficiency. Here’s a detailed guide on how to monitor your water temperature:
1. Purchase a Water Temperature Gauge
Acquire a reliable water temperature gauge from a hardware store. These gauges are typically designed with a probe that measures the water temperature and displays it on a dial or digital display.
2. Attach the Gauge
Locate a convenient spot on the hot water pipe, usually near the outlet of the heater. Attach the temperature gauge according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that the probe is submerged in the water.
3. Run Hot Water
Run hot water from a nearby faucet to allow the water in the pipes to circulate. This will stabilize the water temperature for accurate measurement.
4. Measure the Temperature
Read the temperature displayed on the gauge. Typically, a temperature between 120-140°F (49-60°C) is considered safe and energy-efficient.
5. Adjust the Hot Water Heater Temperature
If the water temperature is not within the recommended range, refer to your hot water heater’s manual for instructions on how to adjust the temperature setting. Increasing the temperature increases the risk of scalding, while decreasing it can lead to insufficient hot water supply.
6. Consider Additional Safety Measures
To mitigate the risk of scalding, install a mixing valve or anti-scald device to regulate the water temperature delivered to faucets and showers. These devices blend cold and hot water to maintain a safe temperature.
7. Regular Monitoring
Make a habit of regularly monitoring the water temperature using the gauge. Over time, the temperature setting of the hot water heater can shift, requiring periodic adjustments.
8. Contact a Professional
If you observe any unusual fluctuations in water temperature or suspect a malfunction in your hot water heater, promptly contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
9. Monitoring Water Temperature Log
Maintain a monitoring log to track the measured water temperatures over time. This log can help identify trends, detect potential issues, and support informed decisions regarding temperature adjustments. Additionally, it can serve as valuable documentation for future reference.
| Time | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | 125°F |
| 12:00 PM | 128°F |
| 5:00 PM | 131°F |
How to Turn On a Hot Water Heater
Follow these steps to turn on your hot water heater:
- Locate the water heater’s power switch or gas valve, typically found on the side or bottom of the unit.
- Turn on the power switch or open the gas valve.
- Check the thermostat setting and adjust it to the desired temperature.
- Light the pilot light, if applicable (gas water heaters only).
- Open a hot water faucet to check if the water is flowing and warm.
Troubleshooting Common Water Heater Issues
No Hot Water
Possible causes and solutions:
- Power failure: Check if the circuit breaker or fuse for the water heater has tripped or blown.
- Thermostat set too low: Adjust the thermostat to a higher temperature.
- Water heater pilot light is out (gas water heaters only): Relight the pilot light according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Sediment accumulation: Flush the water heater to remove sediment that could be blocking the heat transfer.
- Broken heating element: Replace the broken heating element.
Water Not Hot Enough
Possible causes and solutions:
- Thermostat set too low: Adjust the thermostat to a higher temperature.
- Faulty heating element: Replace the heating element.
- Sediment accumulation: Flush the water heater to remove sediment that could be insulating the heating elements.
- Water flow rate too high: Reduce the flow rate by closing other hot water faucets.
- Faulty mixing valve (if applicable): Replace the mixing valve to ensure proper water temperature mixing.
Leaking Water Heater
Possible causes and solutions:
- Ruptured tank: Replace the water heater if the tank has ruptured.
- Faulty pressure relief valve: Replace the pressure relief valve if it is leaking.
- Loose connections: Tighten all loose connections on the water heater, including fittings and pipes.
- Corroded drain valve: Replace the drain valve if it is leaking.
Unusual Noises
Possible causes and solutions:
- Sediment buildup: Flush the water heater to remove sediment that could be causing noise.
- Air in the water heater: Bleed the air from the water heater by opening a hot water faucet until water flows steadily.
- Loose heating elements: Tighten any loose heating elements.
- Broken igniter (gas water heaters only): Replace the igniter to restore proper ignition.
How To Turn On A Hot Water Heater
Turning on a hot water heater is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. First, locate the water heater. It is typically found in a basement, utility room, or garage. Once you have located the water heater, turn off the gas or electricity supply to the unit. Next, open the cold water supply valve. This valve is typically located near the top of the water heater. Once the cold water supply valve is open, turn on the gas or electricity supply to the unit. Finally, light the pilot light if the water heater is gas-powered.
If you are having trouble turning on your hot water heater, you may need to consult a qualified technician. However, by following the steps outlined above, you should be able to turn on your hot water heater safely and easily.
People Also Ask About How To Turn On A Hot Water Heater
How do I know if my hot water heater is on?
If your hot water heater is on, you should be able to hear the burner running. You should also be able to feel warm water coming out of the hot water tap.
What should I do if my hot water heater is not working?
If your hot water heater is not working, you should first check to make sure that the gas or electricity supply to the unit is turned on. If the supply is on, you may need to consult a qualified technician to troubleshoot the problem.
How often should I service my hot water heater?
You should have your hot water heater serviced once a year by a qualified technician. This will help to ensure that your water heater is operating safely and efficiently.
