November 24, 2025
Duvall, WA Water Heater Troubles: 5 Fixes That Work
Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes
No hot water is a cold shock. If your water heater is not heating, start with simple checks before you panic. In this guide, we explain the five most common reasons a water heater is not heating and how to fix each safely. You will learn what to try yourself, when to call a pro, and how to prevent repeat problems. Have a leaking tank or no hot water at all? Schedule service today and ask about current water heater coupons.
Quick Safety Checks Before You Troubleshoot
A water heater combines electricity, gas, and hot water. Safety first.
- Turn off power or gas:
- Electric: switch the water heater breaker to OFF.
- Gas: set the gas control knob to OFF.
- Shut off water if you have an active leak. Use the cold-water supply valve above the unit.
- Let the tank cool before removing panels or touching wires.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
If you smell gas, leave the home and call your utility emergency line, then call a licensed plumber.
Reason 1: Tripped Breaker or Pilot/ignition Failure
Loss of power or ignition is the most common no‑heat issue.
Electric Water Heaters
- Symptom: no hot water anywhere.
- Likely cause: tripped breaker or high‑limit switch.
How to fix it:
- Check the electrical panel. Reset a tripped breaker. If it trips again, call a pro.
- Press the high‑limit reset button. It is under the upper access panel and red in color. Restore power and test after 30 minutes.
- Inspect for burnt wiring at the elements and thermostat if you are comfortable. Any damage means professional repair.
Gas Water Heaters
- Symptom: pilot out or burner will not light.
- Likely cause: extinguished pilot, bad thermocouple, dirty flame sensor, or faulty control.
How to fix it:
- Relight the pilot following the lighting label on the tank. If it will not stay lit, the thermocouple may be failing.
- For newer units with electronic ignition, clean the flame sensor with fine emery cloth. Restore power and test.
- Ensure gas valve is open and other gas appliances are working.
When to call Apollo Plumbing:
- Repeated pilot outages, error codes, or any gas smell.
- Ignition parts testing requires tools and training.
Local insight: In the Seattle and Snohomish County area, winds can blow out older draft‑hood pilots. A proper draft test and vent check often solves recurring outages.
Reason 2: Failed Heating Element or Burner
If the unit powers up but water stays cold, the heat source may have failed.
Electric Elements
- Upper element heats first. If it fails, you often get no hot water.
- Lower element handles most of the tank volume. If it fails, you get short bursts of lukewarm water.
How to fix it:
- Turn off power. Verify with a non‑contact voltage tester.
- Use a multimeter to ohm‑test elements. Typical reading is 10–20 ohms. Infinite resistance means the element is open and must be replaced.
- Replace with the same wattage element. Use a new gasket and tighten firmly. Refill the tank completely before restoring power to avoid dry‑firing.
Gas Burners
- Weak flame or orange tips suggest restricted air or a dirty burner.
How to fix it:
- Vacuum lint and dust from the burner compartment and air intake screen.
- Check that the flame is mostly blue with steady tips.
- If the burner is warped or the gas valve is faulty, schedule professional service.
Pro tip: Many homeowners replace elements but overlook failed thermostats. If an element tests good, test the thermostats for continuity and proper switching.
Reason 3: Sediment Buildup Reducing Heat Transfer
Our local water is mineral rich. Over time, sediment blankets the bottom of a tank and insulates the water from the heat source. You get longer heat times, rumbling noises, and lukewarm water.
Signs you have sediment:
- Popping or rumbling sounds during heating.
- Cloudy or discolored water from hot taps.
- Reduced hot water volume.
How to fix it:
- Turn off power or gas.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and run it to a floor drain or outside.
- Open the drain, then open the temperature and pressure relief valve to vent. Flush until water runs clear.
- Close valves, refill the tank fully, then restore power or relight the pilot.
If the drain valve is clogged, do not force it. A stuck valve can break. A plumber can remove sediment safely and replace the valve.
Prevention:
- Flush the tank once or twice per year.
- Install a whole‑home sediment filter if your area has heavy particulates.
Local insight: Cold groundwater temps in winter around Everett and Lake Stevens increase recovery time. Sediment makes it worse. A clean tank shortens reheat time noticeably.
Reason 4: Thermostat Setting, Mixing Valve, or Dip Tube Issues
You may have heat, but it does not reach the fixtures as expected. Control and mixing parts can cause lukewarm water and temperature swings.
Thermostat or control setting:
- Confirm the thermostat is set to 120–125°F. Lower settings yield lukewarm water. Higher settings increase scald risk.
Anti‑scald mixing valve:
- Many homes have a mixing valve at the heater outlet. If it sticks or is misadjusted, you get inconsistent temps.
Dip tube failure:
- The dip tube directs cold water to the tank bottom. A cracked tube sends cold water to the top and dilutes hot water.
How to fix it:
- Verify the temperature setting and adjust. Wait one to two hours and test.
- Exercise the mixing valve by turning its adjustment slightly and returning to the mark. Mineral buildup may require replacement.
- If the dip tube is suspected, remove the cold inlet nipple and inspect. Replace if brittle or broken.
When to call a pro:
- If temperature swings are severe or you see plastic fragments in strainers, professional inspection is faster and safer.
Reason 5: System Age, Leaks, or Undersized Capacity
Sometimes the real issue is not a repairable part but the system itself.
Age and wear:
- Tank water heaters last 8–12 years on average in our climate. Tankless units can reach 20–25 years with maintenance.
Leaks and corrosion:
- Active tank leaks are not repairable. Replace the unit. Address expansion tank and water pressure to protect the new heater.
Undersized capacity:
- Families grow, and hot water needs change. A 40‑gallon tank that once fit may now leave you cold after two showers.
How to fix it:
- Check the age from the serial number. If near end of life, replacement is the smart move.
- Inspect for leaks around fittings, the T&P valve, and the tank base.
- Consider a larger tank, a high‑recovery model, or a tankless upgrade for endless hot water.
Hard fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters are 8–34% more efficient than traditional tank models. Many homeowners save around $100 per year on energy when switching, and they gain space with wall‑mounted units.
DIY vs. Professional: When To Call Apollo Plumbing
Call us if you notice any of the following:
- Persistent pilot outages, error codes, or electrical shorts.
- Repeated breaker trips or signs of melted wiring.
- Sulfur odors, gas smell, or discolored hot water.
- Tank leaks or a clogged drain valve.
- Temperature fluctuations that do not respond to thermostat changes.
Why homeowners choose us:
- Every Apollo Plumber is a trained water heater installation specialist.
- Upfront, no‑surprise pricing and we do not leave until you are satisfied.
- We haul away your old unit and can install high‑efficiency and ENERGY STAR options sized for your home.
- A+ BBB rating and 24/7 emergency response across Seattle, Everett, Marysville, Lynnwood, Bothell, and more.
Annual Maintenance That Prevents No‑Heat Emergencies
Your best defense is routine service. We recommend annual maintenance to keep your water heater running efficiently and to catch potential problems early. Here is what a typical tune‑up includes:
- Full safety inspection of gas or electrical components.
- Flush and descale to remove sediment and restore heat transfer.
- Anode rod check to slow tank corrosion.
- Draft and combustion analysis on gas models.
- Temperature and mixing valve calibration.
- For tankless, clean inlet screens, descale heat exchanger, and verify error history.
Benefits you will notice:
- Faster heat recovery and consistent showers.
- Lower utility bills and longer equipment life.
- Fewer surprises during peak use.
Replacement Options If Repairs Do Not Pencil Out
If repair costs exceed value, we help you choose the right replacement.
Good options we install:
- Traditional gas or electric tank water heaters in 40 gallons or larger.
- High‑recovery or hybrid heat pump models for lower operating cost.
- Tankless water heaters for endless hot water and space savings.
- Point of use heaters for remote baths or shops.
What to expect with Apollo Plumbing:
- Clear recommendations, final price upfront, and permits handled.
- Old unit hauled away and jobsite left clean.
- Manufacturer warranties registered and backed by our written guarantee.
Local tip: Homes in Kirkland, Redmond, and Edmonds often gain closet space by switching to wall‑mounted tankless units. That frees room for storage while delivering consistent hot water to multiple showers.
Simple Checklist Before You Book a Service Call
Use this quick list to rule out easy causes:
- Verify power or gas is on and relight or reset as needed.
- Confirm thermostat is 120–125°F.
- Check for visible leaks and listen for rumbling.
- Flush a few gallons from the tank if sediment is suspected.
- Note model and serial number for faster parts lookup.
If any step reveals damage, shut it down and schedule service. We are ready to help same day in most cases.
Special Offers for Water Heater Service
- Save $77 on water heaters. Use code: $77 OFF Water Heaters. Expires 10/31/2025.
- Save $200 on a Navien tankless water heater. Use code: $200 OFF Navien Tankless Water Heater. Expires 10/31/2025.
Call (425) 387-1507 or schedule at apolloplumbing.net to claim your discount. Offers cannot be combined or applied to service call fees.
What Homeowners Are Saying
"The review of the problem, estimate for the water heater repair or replacement was relatively painless... I am thankful that I opted for the complete replacement with a brand new water heater. Thank you Apollo!"
–William B., Water Heater Replacement
"Geoff and Thomas arrived within 2 hours of my call and they checked through all items with the water heater and were able to reassure me... They offered services but didn't upsell me on anything."
–Aimers A., Water Heater Inspection
"Ben and Devin were great! They re-lit my pilot on my tankless water heater, plus gave me options as to replacing my old unit... They were so professional and just really nice guys."
–Cathy B., Tankless Pilot Relight
"We called Apollo Plumbing, and Carlos came out first thing in the morning... We are now the proud owners of a brand new hot water tank!"
–Destiny W., Emergency Replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my water heater not heating after a power outage?
Power surges can trip the breaker or the high‑limit reset switch. Reset the breaker, press the red reset under the upper panel, then test. If it trips again, call a pro.
How often should I flush my water heater in the Seattle–Everett area?
Once per year is a good baseline. If you hear rumbling or see discolored water, flush sooner. Annual maintenance reduces sediment and extends tank life.
Is 120°F hot enough for my water heater?
Yes. 120–125°F balances comfort, efficiency, and safety. Higher temps raise scald risk and energy use. Homes with immune‑compromised occupants may follow physician guidance.
When should I replace instead of repair?
If the tank leaks, the unit is 10+ years old with repeated issues, or repairs exceed 40% of replacement cost, replacement is usually the wiser investment.
Will a tankless water heater fix my running‑out‑of‑hot‑water problem?
Yes, when sized correctly. Tankless delivers continuous hot water and is 8–34% more efficient than tank models, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Bottom Line
If your water heater is not heating, start with safe checks, then follow the five fixes above. For stubborn problems or any gas or electrical concern, call the local specialists who service Seattle, Everett, Marysville, Lynnwood, Bothell, and nearby.
Ready to Restore Hot Water?
Call Apollo Plumbing at (425) 387-1507 or book at apolloplumbing.net. Mention “$77 OFF Water Heaters” or “$200 OFF Navien Tankless” before 10/31/2025 to save on your repair or upgrade. We arrive fast, quote upfront, and back our work with a written guarantee.
Call now: (425) 387-1507 Schedule online: https://www.apolloplumbing.net/ Active coupons through 10/31/2025: $77 OFF Water Heaters, $200 OFF Navien Tankless Water Heater
About Apollo Plumbing
Apollo Plumbing is a local, licensed team serving Seattle, Everett, Marysville, Lynnwood, Bothell, and nearby communities. We specialize in water heater repair, replacement, and tankless upgrades. Our technicians are trained water heater installation specialists, we offer upfront, no‑surprise pricing, and we haul away old units. We stock high‑efficiency and ENERGY STAR options, and we back our work with a written guarantee. Recognized with an A+ BBB rating and strong homeowner reviews, our crews arrive prepared to fix most issues on the first visit and are available 24/7 for emergencies.