Martinsville, IN Water Heater Not Heating? 5 Fixes

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

When your water heater not heating turns showers cold and dishes greasy, you want a fix that works now. This guide walks you through the top causes, safe DIY checks, and when to call our Bloomington pros for same‑day help. We also share how to prevent repeat breakdowns and what repairs should cost locally. Hot water can be back today, and you may even save with our current inspection special.

Why Your Water Heater Stops Heating: The Quick Overview

A water heater only needs a few things to make hot water: power or gas, a working heat source, clean water flow, and accurate controls. When any one of these fails, water goes lukewarm or cold. Most no‑heat calls in Bloomington fall into five buckets:

1. Power or gas supply failure.
2. A burner or heating element that no longer fires.
3. Sediment or scale insulating the heat source.
4. Faulty thermostats, sensors, or mixing valves.
5. Age‑related tank damage or a leak reducing output.

Before you start, remember two safety facts. Gas appliances can leak or ignite if mishandled, and electric heaters can shock even when “off” if not isolated correctly. If you smell gas, hear hissing, or see burned wiring, stop and call a licensed pro.

1. Tripped Breaker or Blown Fuse on Electric Units

Electric water heaters depend on a dedicated circuit. A surge or element short can trip the breaker.

How to check safely:

1. Turn the water heater’s breaker fully off, then back on. If it trips again, stop.
2. Verify the service disconnect at the unit, if present, is seated.
3. After restoring power, press the high‑limit reset on the upper thermostat under the access panel. Replace the insulation and cover before re‑energizing.

What this means:

• If power holds but water is still cold after one hour, an element or thermostat likely failed.
• Repeated trips point to a shorted element or wiring defect that needs a pro.

Pro tip for Bloomington homes: Many older basements around campus rentals have shared circuits. Electric heaters should be on a dedicated breaker per code. Our techs correct miswired circuits and replace weak breakers to prevent nuisance trips.

2. Pilot Light Out or Gas Supply Issue on Gas Heaters

No flame means no heat. Common causes include a blown‑out pilot, closed gas valve, or a faulty thermocouple or flame sensor.

How to relight a standing pilot:

1. Turn the gas control to Off and wait five minutes.
2. Set to Pilot. Hold the pilot button and spark the igniter until the pilot stays lit.
3. Turn to On and set temperature to 120 to 125°F. Watch for steady blue flame.

If the pilot will not stay lit, the thermocouple may be weak. Newer models use electronic ignition and flame sensors that also fail with age.

Check gas supply:

• Confirm the manual gas valve at the heater is parallel to the pipe.
• If other gas appliances are out, call your gas utility immediately.

Safety fact: Natural gas water heaters can explode if mishandled. If you smell gas, do not relight. Leave the area and call for emergency service.

3. Failed Heating Elements or Burner Problems

Electric heaters use one or two elements that can burn out. Gas heaters rely on a burner that needs clean combustion air.

Signs and solutions:

• Electric, top element failed: water runs cold fast. Test with a multimeter and replace with the same wattage element and a new gasket.
• Electric, lower element failed: you get short spurts of hot water, then cold. Replace the lower element and inspect the anode rod while the tank is drained.
• Gas burner issues: yellow, lazy flame or soot indicates a combustion problem. Clean the burner and check the venting. A faulty gas valve requires a licensed technician.

Local cost guidance:

• Typical element replacement in Bloomington runs modestly when done with a tank flush.
• Gas valve or control replacements cost more and often make sense only on newer tanks.

4. Sediment Buildup Reducing Heat Transfer

Bloomington and surrounding areas often see mineral buildup in tanks. Over time, sediment blankets the bottom of the tank and insulates the heat source. You might hear popping or rumbling as trapped steam tries to escape.

What to do:

1. Cut power or set gas to Pilot. Let water cool to a safe temperature.
2. Connect a hose to the drain valve and flush until clear. Close the valve, refill, and purge air from a hot faucet.
3. If the drain valve clogs, you may need a pro to rod it out and perform a full flush.

Benefits of annual maintenance:

• Faster heat recovery and lower utility bills.
• Fewer nuisance noises and longer tank life.

Hard fact: Our team performs an annual tune‑up that includes checking the anode rod, thermostat, burner or elements, pressure relief valve, and leaks along gas and water lines. That checklist mirrors manufacturer guidance and keeps warranties intact.

5. Thermostat, Mixing Valve, or Control Faults

If power and flame are fine but temperatures vary wildly or never reach setpoint, the controls may be to blame.

Common culprits:

• Upper or lower thermostat failure on electric units.
• Faulty gas control valve on atmospheric tanks.
• A stuck tempering or mixing valve near the outlet.
• Sensor errors on newer digital controls.

DIY checks:

1. Confirm the setpoint is 120 to 125°F. Higher is not always better and can be unsafe.
2. Inspect wiring at thermostats for burns or loose connections.
3. If you see corrosion, water drips into controls, or error codes, schedule service.

When to replace instead of repair:

• If your tank is 10 years or older and needs a control board or gas valve, replacement is often smarter.

When Repair Is Not the Best Move

Even a perfect repair will not fix a tired, leaking tank. Consider replacement when you see:

• Active leaks from the tank body.
• Rust‑colored water from multiple taps.
• Repeated pilot outages despite parts replacement.
• Tanks over 10 to 12 years old with frequent issues.

Options include efficient tank models, heat pump hybrids, and tankless systems that mount on a wall and can last around 20 years. Our licensed installers size the unit, handle permits, and bring installations up to local code.

DIY vs Pro: Safety, Code, and Permits

Some tasks are homeowner friendly, like checking breakers, relighting a steady pilot, or flushing sediment. Others should be handled by a licensed plumber:

• Gas valve, control, and venting work.
• Electrical replacements or rewiring.
• Pressure relief valve or expansion tank changes.
• Conversions to tankless, which require gas sizing and possibly electrical upgrades.

Local insight: In older Bloomington neighborhoods off Kirkwood Avenue and near the IU campus, tight utility rooms and mixed materials are common. We arrive with stocked trucks to replace failing shutoffs, install expansion tanks, and bring connections up to code in one visit.

Hard fact: Summers backs water heater work with one‑year labor and product warranties. We also provide 24/7 emergency response so you are not stuck without hot water overnight.

Preventive Maintenance That Actually Works

Annual maintenance pays for itself by reducing energy waste and avoiding emergency breakdowns. Our recommended schedule:

• Once per year: full tank flush, anode rod inspection, burner or element test, thermostat and safety control check, pressure relief valve test, and leak inspection at all valves.
• Every 3 to 5 years: replace the anode rod sooner if heavily corroded.
• After any remodel or water quality change: recalibrate temperature and mixing valves.

Quick homeowner checklist:

1. Listen for rumbling or popping. That is sediment.
2. Watch for small puddles around the base.
3. Test the pressure relief valve by lifting the lever briefly.
4. Set temperature to 120°F for safety and savings unless your needs require hotter water.

Tankless: No Hot Water Issues and Fixes

Tankless heaters provide on‑demand hot water and save space. When they stop heating, the fixes differ from tanks.

Typical causes:

• Gas pressure or sizing issues during high demand.
• Scale buildup in the heat exchanger.
• Error codes from blocked intake or exhaust.
• Minimum flow not met due to clogged aerators.

What helps:

1. Clean faucet aerators and showerheads to restore flow.
2. Descale the unit annually with a pump and solution.
3. Check for visible blockages at air intake and vent screens.
4. If you recently added fixtures, you may need a larger model.

Hard fact: Tankless systems are rated to last about 20 years when maintained. Our Bloomington team performs annual tune‑ups and can guide you on model selection and any gas or electrical adjustments needed for a conversion.

Cost Guide: What Bloomington Homeowners Can Expect

While pricing varies by model and condition, here is a practical framework so you can budget with confidence:

• Electric element or thermostat replacement: usually one of the most affordable fixes, especially when paired with a flush.
• Gas thermocouple or flame sensor: cost‑effective repair if the tank is otherwise healthy.
• Gas control valve or electronic board: higher cost, best for newer tanks under 8 to 10 years.
• Full tank replacement: investment depends on size, efficiency rating, and any code upgrades like expansion tanks and new shutoffs.
• Tankless tune‑up or descaling: recommended annually to protect the heat exchanger and efficiency.

We provide upfront pricing and options at the door. If you have a written quote, ask about our low‑price guarantee and financing.

How We Restore Hot Water the Same Day

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling offers:

1. Rapid diagnosis: Licensed, background‑checked techs use proven checklists to find the root cause fast.
2. Fully stocked trucks: Most elements, valves, and controls are on hand for one‑trip repairs.
3. Code‑compliant installs: We size, permit, and install to local requirements, including expansion tanks where needed.
4. Strong guarantees: One‑year labor and product warranties on water heater work.
5. 24/7 emergency response: Nights, weekends, and holidays. Life does not stop, and neither do we.

Service areas include Bloomington, Ellettsville, Bedford, Martinsville, Spencer, Bloomfield, Mitchell, Linton, Orleans, and Springville. If your shower went cold this morning, we can have a tech on the way today.

Special Offer: Keep the Hot Water Flowing

$59 Water Heater Safety Inspection and Flush. Must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with other discounts. Limited time. Expires 11/05/2025.

Or choose our Water Heater Flush + Plumbing Inspection for $69 this month only. Expires 11/05/2025.

Call (812) 269-5994 or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/bloomington/. Mention the $59 or $69 water heater special when booking.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"I just had a new hot water heater and heat pump installed. Special thanks to Curtis, David & Rob for a job well done! John Norris came to our home and provided professional direction and offered several options to care for our water heater. I strongly recommend Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling! Thank you, John!"
–John N., Water Heater Replacement

"I highly recommend Summer's! I called on Saturday, the day after Christmas... able to get here in a couple of hours to check my water heater. John was extremely professional and polite... He didn't even try to upsell me, which is very refreshing... Again Summer's was responsive and Curtis had my hot water on a few hours later."
–Katie R., Water Heater Repair

"Curtis & Mitch were awesome. Did a great job of replacing our water heater in just a couple of hours and upgrading our leak protection and drainage system."
–Mark T., Water Heater Replacement

"Had my water heater crack and flood the garage one winter evening, Summers was able to get someone out the next day to assess and install a new system... Very pleased with the service and extremely happy to have hot water again so quickly!"
–Elena S., Emergency Replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my electric water heater running but not heating?

Check the breaker, then press the high‑limit reset on the upper thermostat. If it trips again or water stays cold after an hour, a heating element or thermostat likely failed and needs replacement.

How do I relight a gas water heater safely?

Turn the control to Off for five minutes. Switch to Pilot, hold the button, and use the igniter until the pilot stays lit. Turn to On and set 120 to 125°F. If the pilot will not hold, call a pro.

What temperature should I set my water heater to?

Most homes are safe and comfortable at 120°F. This reduces scald risk and saves energy. Dishwashers with internal boosters still sanitize properly at this setting.

How often should I flush my water heater in Bloomington?

Annually. Our local water often leaves mineral deposits. A yearly flush, anode check, and safety inspection improve efficiency and extend tank life.

When should I replace instead of repair?

If the tank leaks, is 10 to 12 years old with recurring problems, or needs an expensive gas valve or control board, replacement is usually the smarter long‑term choice.

Bottom Line

Cold showers end today. The five culprits above explain most cases of a water heater not heating, and many checks are simple. If you prefer a pro, our Bloomington team can diagnose and repair the same day, or install a right‑sized replacement that meets code.

Call, Schedule, or Chat Now

• Call (812) 269-5994
• Book online: https://www.summersphc.com/bloomington/
• Mention the $59 Water Heater Safety Inspection and Flush, exp. 11/05/2025

Get fast, safe hot water restoration backed by one‑year labor and product warranties.

Ready for hot water again today? Call (812) 269-5994 or book at https://www.summersphc.com/bloomington/ and mention our $59 safety inspection and flush special.

About Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Serving Indiana homeowners since 1969, Summers delivers licensed, background‑checked plumbers, same‑day service, and 24/7 emergency support. We back our water heater work with one‑year labor and product warranties and offer upfront pricing and financing. From code‑compliant installs to fast repairs, our Bloomington team knows the local housing stock and water conditions. Expect clean jobsites, clear options, and reliable results.