No Hot Water? Common Causes and Fixes
Waking up to no hot water is one of the most frustrating household problems, especially during colder Perth mornings. Whether it happens suddenly or gradually, a lack of hot water usually points to a specific fault in your system.
This guide explains the most common reasons Perth homes lose hot water, what you can safely check yourself, and when it is time to call a licensed hot water specialist.
Power or Gas Supply Issues
One of the first things to check when you have no hot water is whether your system is receiving power or gas. Electric systems can stop working if a circuit breaker or safety switch has tripped, while gas systems may lose supply if the gas has been turned off or interrupted.
If other electrical appliances or gas appliances in your home are not working, the issue may be external to the hot water system. However, if the problem keeps occurring, it may indicate an underlying electrical or gas fault that needs professional assessment.
Faulty Thermostat or Heating Element
In storage hot water systems, the thermostat and heating element play a crucial role in heating water to the correct temperature. Over time, these components can wear out, particularly in areas like Perth where water quality can contribute to scale and sediment build-up.
A failed heating element often results in no hot water at all, while a faulty thermostat may cause inconsistent or lukewarm water. These issues are common in older systems and usually require replacement parts rather than a full system upgrade.
Tripped Reset Button on Electric Systems
Many electric hot water systems are fitted with a safety reset button designed to shut the system down if it overheats or detects a fault. If this button trips, hot water may stop suddenly.
While resetting the button can temporarily restore hot water, repeated tripping is a warning sign. It often indicates a failing thermostat, heating element or electrical issue that should not be ignored, as it can worsen over time.
Gas Hot Water System Problems
Gas hot water systems can stop producing hot water for several reasons. A pilot light may go out, ignition components may fail, or safety mechanisms may shut the system down if a fault is detected.
Ventilation and flue issues can also trigger automatic shut-offs, particularly in older systems. Because gas appliances pose safety risks, any ongoing issues should only be inspected and repaired by licensed professionals.
Hot Water System Too Small for Your Household
If your hot water runs out quickly rather than stopping completely, the issue may not be a fault but a capacity problem. As households grow or usage patterns change, older systems may no longer meet demand.
Multiple bathrooms, high-flow fixtures and back-to-back showers can drain a storage tank faster than it can recover. In these cases, upgrading to a larger system or switching to a different hot water solution may be the most practical long-term fix.
Sediment Build-Up in Perth Water
Perth’s water conditions can lead to sediment settling at the bottom of storage hot water tanks. Over time, this build-up reduces heating efficiency and places additional strain on internal components.
Common signs include rumbling or popping noises, slower heating times and higher energy bills. Regular servicing can help reduce sediment accumulation and extend the lifespan of your system.
Leaking or Failing Hot Water System
Leaks are a serious issue and often indicate internal tank corrosion or a failing pressure relief valve. Even small leaks can lead to complete loss of hot water and cause damage to surrounding areas if left unattended.
If you notice pooling water, dampness around the unit or rust-coloured water, it is important to turn the system off and seek professional assistance immediately.
What You Can Check Before Calling a Professional
Before calling a specialist, there are a few safe checks you can perform. Confirm the power or gas supply is on, look for any error codes or warning lights, and test multiple taps to ensure the problem affects the whole home.
Listening for unusual noises can also provide clues. However, internal repairs, electrical work and gas adjustments should always be left to licensed professionals.
When to Call a Hot Water Specialist in Perth
You should contact a hot water specialist if there is still no hot water after basic checks, the system is leaking, circuit breakers continue to trip or the unit is more than eight to ten years old.
Recurring issues are a strong sign that repairs or replacement should be considered sooner rather than later to avoid complete system failure.
Need Same-Day Hot Water Repairs in Perth?
If your home has no hot water, fast and reliable service is essential. Simply Hot Water Perth specialises in diagnosing, repairing and replacing hot water systems across Perth WA, with solutions tailored to local conditions and household needs.
For urgent repairs, honest advice or system replacement options, visit our
contact page and call (08) 6374 5892 or email sales@simplyhotwaterperth.com.au to speak with a hot water specialist today.