Hot Water 4 min read

No Hot Water? A Troubleshooting Checklist Before You Call

Quick answer

First check whether the problem is electric or gas. For electric units, check the power point and switchboard. For gas, check the gas supply and that the pilot light is lit. If the reset doesn't work, or you see leaking water or smell gas, stop and call a licensed plumber straight away.

First, what type of system do you have?

The right checks depend on whether your hot water system is electric or gas. Knowing which you have helps you (and us) narrow the problem quickly.

  • ›Electric storage: a tank connected to a power point or the switchboard.
  • ›Gas storage or continuous flow: a unit connected to your gas supply, often mounted outside.

Checklist for an electric hot water system

  1. 1Check the power point the unit is plugged into is switched on and working.
  2. 2Check your switchboard — a tripped safety switch or circuit breaker can cut power to the heater. Reset it once if it has tripped.
  3. 3If it trips again immediately, stop — that points to an electrical fault that needs a professional.

Checklist for a gas hot water system

  1. 1Make sure your gas supply is on and other gas appliances are working.
  2. 2For units with a pilot light, check whether it has gone out. Follow the maker's relighting instructions printed on the unit.
  3. 3If the pilot won't stay lit, or you can't relight it safely, leave it and call a licensed gas fitter.

If you ever smell gas, don't touch electrical switches — turn off the gas at the meter if it's safe, ventilate the area, and call us immediately on 0489 998 221.

Signs it's time to call a plumber

  • ›Water pooling or leaking around the base of the tank.
  • ›Rusty, discoloured or smelly hot water.
  • ›The safety valve constantly dripping or releasing water.
  • ›No hot water after the safe checks above, or a safety switch that keeps tripping.
  • ›Any smell of gas — this is an emergency.

Eagle Plumbing 24/7 repairs and replaces electric and gas hot water systems across Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury and the Illawarra. We're fully licensed and insured, quote upfront before any work, and are available 24 hours a day. Call 0489 998 221 and we'll get your hot water back.

Common Questions

Why has my hot water suddenly stopped?

The most common causes are a tripped safety switch or power issue on electric units, or a pilot light that's gone out on gas units. Leaking water, a failing element or an ageing tank can also be to blame. Run the safe checks in this guide, and call a plumber if they don't fix it.

Is it safe to relight my gas hot water pilot myself?

Many units have relighting instructions printed on the side and are designed to be relit by the homeowner. But if the pilot won't stay lit, you smell gas, or you're unsure, stop and call a licensed gas fitter — never force it.

How long does a hot water system last?

It varies by type, model and water quality, but most storage systems last many years before they need replacing. If yours is old and failing repeatedly, replacing it is often more cost-effective than ongoing repairs — we'll give you honest advice either way.

Need a plumber now?

One call and we're on the way — day or night, right across Greater Sydney. $0 call out fee*.

Call 0489 998 221
*$0 call-out fee applies to standard call-outs during business hours when work proceeds. After-hours, weekend and public-holiday call-outs may incur a fee — any charges are always confirmed upfront before work begins.