The cause depends heavily on whether you have a gas or electric water heater — each has distinct failure points. If you'd rather skip the diagnosis, our water heater repair service covers both.
Check the reset button (usually red, located on the upper thermostat behind an access panel) — if it's tripped, the heating element may have overheated or there's an electrical fault. Also check your home's breaker panel; a tripped breaker cuts power entirely. If the reset button trips repeatedly, the heating element or thermostat likely needs replacement — a job that typically requires a licensed electrician's attention alongside the plumber if wiring is involved.
If the pilot light is out, most modern units have a simple relighting procedure printed on the tank. If it won't stay lit, the thermocouple (a safety sensor that shuts off gas flow if it doesn't detect a flame) has likely failed — this is a common, inexpensive repair. If the pilot lights but the burner won't ignite, the gas valve or igniter may need replacement.
If your water heater is over 8 to 10 years old and experiencing failures, weigh the repair cost against replacement. A repair costing more than 50% of a new unit's installed price usually isn't worth it — you're investing in a system nearing the end of its useful life anyway. A tankless water heater is worth considering at replacement time if you've been running out of hot water.
Any gas line work, electrical repairs beyond resetting a breaker, or situations involving a gas smell should be handled by a licensed plumber — if you smell gas, treat it as an emergency gas line situation and don't wait. Attempting gas or electrical repairs yourself risks safety and can void manufacturer warranties.
Call (425) 285-8696 for same-day service from licensed local plumbers.
Call (425) 285-8696Serving the greater Kirkland and Eastside area. Pro Kirkland Plumber connects homeowners and businesses with experienced local plumbers. Find us on Google Maps.
