Westville, IN Water Heater Not Heating? 5 Common Plumbing Fixes

Estimated Read Time: 8 minutes

Water heater not heating? Few things are worse than a cold shower when you expect hot water. Below, you’ll find the five most common reasons your water heater fails to heat and simple fixes you can try safely. When it is time for professional help, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling offers same-day water heater repair and replacement in La Porte and nearby cities, with upfront pricing and 24/7 emergency availability.

1) Tripped Power, Pilot, or Gas Supply Issues

If your water heater suddenly stopped heating after working fine, start with power and fuel. Electric units need a live circuit. Gas units need a steady gas supply and a working pilot or igniter.

What to check safely:

1. Electric models
2. • Flip the breaker fully off, then on. A partially tripped breaker can look engaged.
   • Press the high-limit reset button on the thermostat behind the upper access panel.
   • Confirm the unit’s power switch is on.
2. Gas models
3. • Make sure the gas valve is open and set to On.
   • Relight the pilot per the manufacturer label, or verify the electronic igniter clicks.
   • Check for a strong blue flame if accessible through the viewing window.

When to call a pro:

• Breakers that trip repeatedly point to a failing heating element or wiring fault.
• A pilot that will not stay lit often indicates a bad thermocouple or control valve.

Safety reminder: If you smell gas or see scorch marks, shut off the gas at the valve, ventilate the area, and call for professional service immediately.

2) Faulty Heating Elements or Burners

On electric water heaters, one or both heating elements may fail. Gas heaters rely on a burner assembly for heat. When these parts fail, the water either never reaches temperature or runs hot briefly, then goes cold.

Signs and simple checks:

• Water is lukewarm at best, even after hours.
• Hot water lasts only a minute or two, then turns cold.
• For electric tanks, the top element failing often causes very short hot water windows.

DIY actions:

• Power down the unit. For electric, turn off the breaker and use a non-contact tester to confirm no power.
• Flush sediment first to reclaim performance. Sediment insulates elements and burner flames from the water they should heat.
• If comfortable with basic tools, you can test elements with a multimeter. Replace if they fail continuity checks.

Professional solutions:

• Summers technicians carry replacement elements, thermostats, and burner parts for fast same-day fixes in La Porte, Michigan City, and nearby communities.
• We perform a full safety check after repair, including wiring inspection and flame quality verification on gas units.

3) Thermostat or Temperature Setting Problems

A mis-set thermostat can make a healthy heater look broken. Most homes run well at 120 degrees Fahrenheit for safety and efficiency. Too low equals lukewarm showers. Too high risks scalding and wasted energy.

Quick fixes:

1. Verify the dial is set to 120 to 125 degrees.
2. On dual-element electric heaters, ensure both thermostats are set evenly.
3. After adjusting, allow up to an hour for the tank to reach and stabilize at the new temperature.

If issues persist:

• A failing thermostat may read incorrectly or cut off too soon.
• Incorrect pressurization of the expansion tank or bad pressure relief settings can contribute to inconsistent temperatures and safety trips.

What we check during service:

• Thermostat calibration and cycling behavior.
• Electrical connections for heat damage and loose terminals.
• Pressure valve function, ventilation, anode condition, and pilot or igniter performance as needed.

4) Sediment Buildup and Poor Water Quality

Hard water leaves mineral scale that settles at the bottom of storage tanks. Over time, sediment forms a dense layer that muffles heat transfer, causes popping or rumbling sounds, and shortens element life.

Clues you have sediment issues:

• Noises like popping or rumbling from the tank during heating.
• Discolored or rusty water at the hot taps.
• Slower hot-water recovery times.

At-home steps:

1. Turn off power or set the gas control to Pilot.
2. Attach a hose to the drain valve and flush several gallons until clear.
3. If water stays gritty or off-color, schedule a full tank flush and inspection.

How professional maintenance helps:

• A comprehensive tank flush removes sediment efficiently.
• We assess anode rods. A spent anode accelerates corrosion and discoloration.
• For persistent hard water, we can recommend water conditioning options that protect your new or existing heater.

Fact homeowners appreciate: Experts recommend scheduling annual water heater inspections and preventative maintenance visits to keep efficiency up and problems down.

5) Capacity Mismatch or Failing Components

Sometimes the heater is fine, but the home’s demand has changed. New fixtures, a larger family, or back-to-back showers can outpace a smaller tank. In other cases, aging components such as dip tubes, thermocouples, or control boards degrade performance and temperature consistency.

Right-size questions to ask:

• Do you run out of hot water more often than before?
• Did you add a soaker tub or multiple showerheads?
• Are recovery times getting longer even after a flush?

Options to consider:

1. Upgrade the tank size if recovery speed is the main need.
2. Convert to a tankless water heater for a virtually endless supply of hot water, lower maintenance needs, and space savings.
3. Replace worn parts like dip tubes, thermocouples, or control boards to restore normal heating.

Summers can evaluate your current setup, provide honest options with upfront pricing, and complete a same-day swap when possible. We remove the old unit, install the new one to code, and test every function before we leave.

DIY vs. Professional: Where the Line Is

Safe DIY steps include checking the breaker, temperature setting, and performing a careful flush. If you encounter any of the following, stop and schedule service:

• Repeatedly tripping breakers or scorch marks near wiring.
• Gas smells, pilot that will not stay lit, or sooty burner flames.
• Leaks, corrosion, or cracks on the tank.
• Discolored water that returns quickly after a partial flush.

Our technicians are licensed, insured, and trained to work on both traditional and tankless systems. We arrive with stocked trucks to limit return trips and can provide free second opinions on major repairs or replacements.

Preventative Maintenance That Actually Works

A simple yearly tune-up avoids most no-heat surprises. During a multi-point service check, Summers technicians look for problems like:

• Leaks, cracks, and corrosion
• Faulty wires
• Excess sediment
• Poor water quality
• Incorrect pressurization of expansion tanks
• Improper settings for pressure valves, ventilation, anode rods, drain pipes, pilot lights, and temperature
• Loose connections
• Thermostat problems

What that means for you:

• Fewer emergency calls and better efficiency.
• Faster hot-water recovery.
• Longer equipment life for both tank and tankless units.

We recommend annual inspections for all water heaters. Tankless models run only when used, so they usually need just a yearly tune-up to stay in peak shape.

When Replacement Beats Repair

If your water heater is 10 to 12 years old, leaks around the base, or needs frequent major parts, replacement is usually the smarter move. Today’s high-efficiency tanks and modern tankless systems can reduce energy costs and deliver better comfort.

Replacement advantages with Summers:

1. Clear, upfront quotes and options for your usage and budget.
2. Fast removal of the old unit and clean installation of your new system.
3. Guidance on traditional versus tankless, including placement, venting, and long-term maintenance.

Local insight: Homes in La Porte, Westville, and Rolling Prairie often benefit from tankless installations in tight utility closets. The space savings and longer lifespan can offset the initial cost, especially when paired with current installation promotions.

What to Expect During a Service Visit

Transparency reduces stress. Here is our typical process for a no-heat call:

1. Arrival window and text updates so you are not waiting around.
2. A licensed technician reviews symptoms and inspects the system.
3. We perform diagnostics on electrical, gas, and safety controls.
4. You get clear options, pricing upfront, and our best professional recommendation.
5. We complete the approved work, test every function, and tidy the work area.

Two hard facts to ground your decision:

• We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing service for urgent water heater issues.
• Every repair or replacement comes with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, backed by a long local history in La Porte and nearby cities.

Simple Troubleshooting Checklist You Can Try Now

Use this quick list before you call. If any step feels unsafe, stop and contact us.

1. Confirm power or gas supply is on.
2. Reset electric high-limit switch and check the breaker.
3. Verify thermostat is set to 120 to 125 degrees.
4. Flush a few gallons to remove loose sediment.
5. Check for visible leaks, corrosion, or scorch marks. If present, call a professional.

If these steps do not restore heat, schedule a diagnostic. We will confirm the root cause and fix it right away or provide replacement options with upfront pricing.

Special Offers for La Porte Area Homeowners

• Save $500 on tankless water heater installation. Schedule by 11/30/25. Conditions apply. Not combinable with other offers.
• $59 Water Heater Flush + Plumbing Inspection. This month only. Conditions apply.
• $59 Water Heater Safety Inspection. Schedule by 11/30/25. Conditions apply.

Call (219) 349-0509 or visit https://www.summersphc.com/la-porte/ to claim your offer. Mention the promotion when booking.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Had a water heater installed in my manufactured home and the tech was quick, efficient, and courteous. Old one out and new one installed in a couple hours, well done!"
–William B., Installation

"Justin arrived as scheduled, got right to work and fixed my hot water heater quickly. Very personable and polite young man. I will be using Summers again."
–Carol T., Repair

"Water Heater removal and installation of Tankless Water Heater was great! Very smooth process!"
–David H., Tankless Installation

"Water heater was expertly replaced! Very pleased!"
–Mark K., Replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my electric water heater not heating at all?

A tripped breaker, a tripped high-limit switch, or a failed heating element are common causes. Reset the breaker and high-limit once. If it trips again, schedule service.

How long should a tank water heater last?

Most storage tank heaters last about 10 to 12 years with regular maintenance. Heavy sediment or poor water quality can shorten lifespan.

Is 120 degrees hot enough for my water heater?

Yes. 120 degrees balances comfort, safety, and efficiency. It reduces scald risk and energy waste while providing adequate hot water for most households.

Do tankless water heaters need maintenance?

Yes. They usually need an annual tune-up. A flush and inspection keeps performance high and helps prevent mineral scale issues.

When should I replace instead of repair?

If the tank leaks, is near 10 to 12 years old, or needs major parts repeatedly, replacement is typically more cost-effective and reliable.

Key Takeaway

Most no-heat issues come down to power or gas supply, heating elements or burners, thermostat settings, sediment, or a capacity mismatch. If your water heater is not heating in La Porte or nearby cities like Michigan City or Westville, we can diagnose and fix it the same day in many cases.

Ready to Get Hot Water Back?

Call (219) 349-0509 or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/la-porte/. Ask about our $59 flush and inspection and $500 off tankless installation. Get upfront pricing and 24/7 emergency service today.

Call now: (219) 349-0509. Book online: https://www.summersphc.com/la-porte/. Mention the $59 flush and inspection or $500 off tankless install when you schedule to lock in savings.

About Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

For decades, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling has helped La Porte and nearby communities with reliable, affordable plumbing, heating, and cooling. Every technician is fully licensed, insured, background checked, and trained. We offer 24/7 emergency service, upfront pricing, and we will match or beat competitors’ prices. From water heater repairs to tankless installations, our team arrives in fully stocked trucks, tests every function, and leaves your home clean. Local, friendly, and fast.