Water not coming out of hot tap: What you can do about it
It’s a common problem that can be frustrating: water not coming out of hot tap. One moment, you’re ready for a warm shower or to fill a sink with hot water, and then—nothing. It’s annoying, but don’t worry. There are a few things you can do to sort it out.
So, if you’ve ever wondered why this happens or how to fix it, here’s a guide to help you get your hot water flowing again.
1. Check your hot water system
The first step in figuring out the issue of water not coming out of hot tap is to check your hot water system. There are different types of hot water systems, including:
– Gas hot water systems
– Electric hot water systems
– Instantaneous hot water systems
– Solar hot water systems
If you have an electric hot water system, check the power supply to make sure it’s switched on and working. If it’s a gas hot water system, check if the gas supply is on. With solar systems, check whether the system has enough sunlight or if it’s a cloudy day affecting performance.
Sometimes, it could be that the hot water system isn’t producing water for various reasons. It might be out of service, have a broken part, or simply need a reset. If you’re unsure, it’s best to call a plumber for help.
2. Check the hot water tap itself
If your hot water system seems fine but the issue of water not coming out of hot tap is still there, the problem might be with the tap itself. A blocked tap can prevent water from flowing properly. Try turning the tap on and off a few times to see if the water pressure improves. If nothing happens, check the faucet for any blockages. Over time, minerals and debris can build up inside the tap, causing it to become clogged.
If you think this is the issue, you can clean the tap by removing the aerator (the small mesh part) and soaking it in vinegar to dissolve any mineral buildup. After a few hours,
scrub it gently with a brush and reattach it.
If cleaning doesn’t work and water not coming out of your hot tap persists, it might be time to replace the faucet.
3. Look for airlocks in the pipes
Another reason why water might not be coming out of the hot tap could be airlocks in your plumbing system. An airlock occurs when air gets trapped inside the pipes, preventing water from flowing freely. This is especially common in homes that use a combination of hot and cold water pipes.
To fix an airlock, you can try the following method:
1. Turn on all the cold taps in the house to relieve some water pressure.
2. Then, turn on the hot taps in the kitchen or bathroom (one at a time) to see if the water starts flowing again.
Sometimes, water not coming out of hot tap can be fixed just by releasing the airlock.
4. Check for blockages in the pipes
If your hot water isn’t flowing, there could be a blockage somewhere in the pipes. Over time, mineral deposits, dirt, and other debris can build up and block the water flow. The most common type of blockage happens in the hot water pipes because of the heat, which causes minerals to harden and form scale inside the pipe.
If you have an old home or the plumbing hasn’t been checked in a while, it’s worth calling a plumber to inspect and clear any blockages. It’s not something you should try to fix yourself unless you have experience with plumbing.
5. Check the water pressure
Another reason water might not be coming out of your hot tap could be low water pressure. If you’re experiencing low water pressure in your hot taps but other taps in your house are fine, the problem could be isolated to the hot water system or pipe.
To check the water pressure, try turning on both the hot and cold taps at the same time in a bathroom or kitchen sink. If the cold water runs fine but the hot water is slow or doesn’t come out at all, there could be an issue with your hot water pressure. A plumber can help you diagnose if the water pressure is too low or if there’s an issue with the pressure regulator in your hot water system.
6. Inspect the hot water heater
If your water isn’t coming out of the hot tap and the hot water system seems to be working fine, it could be that there’s an issue with the heater itself. Common problems with hot water heaters include:
– Burnt-out heating elements (for electric hot water systems)
– Faulty thermostats
– Sediment buildup inside the tank
If the water isn’t heating up properly or you’re getting no hot water at all, it’s a good idea to have the heater inspected. A plumber or hot water specialist can assess the heater, clean out any sediment buildup, replace broken parts, or reset the system.
7. Consider a malfunctioning diverter valve
In some cases, especially with systems like mixers or combination taps, a malfunctioning diverter valve could cause water not to come out of the hot tap. This valve controls the flow between hot and cold water, and if it’s faulty, it might be the cause of water not coming out of hot tap. You can test this by switching between the hot and cold settings. If the diverter valve isn’t working, it may need to be replaced.
8. Call Local Plumber
If none of the above fixes work and water still isn’t coming out of your hot tap, it’s time to call a professional plumber. A licensed plumber can quickly identify the root cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it. Whether it’s an issue with your hot water system, blocked pipes, low pressure, or a malfunctioning valve, a plumber has the tools and knowledge to get the water flowing again.
Dealing with water not coming out of hot tap can be frustrating, but it’s usually a problem that can be solved with a bit of investigation. Start by checking the basics, like your hot water system, pipes, and faucets. If none of these steps solve the issue, you may have a bigger problem like a blocked pipe or malfunctioning hot water system.
No matter what, don’t ignore the issue for too long. Hot water is an important part of daily life, and if it’s not working, it’s best to get it fixed as soon as possible. If you’re in the Illawarra region, feel free to reach out to Local Plumber and Hot Water Specialist for help. We’re here to make sure your home has the water you need.