No Hot Water But Heating Works? Here's What to Do

Imagine this: it’s a freezing morning in Spalding, and all you want is a nice hot shower to kickstart your day. But nope, there’s no hot water, yet your heating is working just fine. Seems strange, right?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This issue can be a real nuisance, but we’re here to help you get to the bottom of it. Whether it’s a dodgy thermostat or an airlock in the system, we’ve got some tips to get your hot water flowing again – and when to call in the pros.

shower head

Common Causes of No Hot Water

Alright, let’s dive into why you might have no hot water but the heating works. Here are some common culprits:

  • Thermostat/timer fault: incorrect settings or a broken thermostat can prevent hot water.
  • Faulty diverter valve: sends hot water to heating instead of taps.
  • Airlocks in the system: air bubbles blocking water flow.
  • Frozen pipes: common in winter, they can block water flow.
  • Boiler pressure issues: low or high pressure causing system malfunction.
  • Faulty heating element: in hot water cylinders, these can fail over time.
  • Pilot light not lit: no flame means no hot water
  • Boiler or pipe leak: leaks can disrupt hot water supply.

DIY Checks and Fixes

Let’s roll up our sleeves and tackle some simple fixes you can try before calling in the cavalry.

Thermostat/Timer

Start off by checking the settings on your thermostat and timer to make sure they’re correct. Sometimes a power cut in the night can throw off the timer. If everything looks right but there’s still no hot water, try resetting the thermostat. Sometimes a little reboot is all it needs to get things back on track.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a common winter issue that can block your hot water. Gently thaw them using a hairdryer or warm towels, but never use an open flame as this can damage the pipes. Once thawed, consider insulating your pipes to prevent future freezing and keep that hot water flowing even in the chilliest weather.

Boiler Pressure

Your boiler’s pressure gauge should read between 1 and 2 bars. If it’s too low, you can top it up using the filling loop. Be cautious not to over-pressurise it, as this can cause other issues. If you’re not confident doing this yourself, it’s best to get a professional to adjust it for you.

Pilot Light

If your boiler has a pilot light, check to see if it’s out. Follow your boiler’s manual to relight it safely. No flame means no hot water, so getting it back on should resolve the issue and get your hot water running again.

Airlocks

Air bubbles in the pipes can block water flow. To release trapped air, bleed your radiators using a radiator key. Before attempting this, make sure the boiler is off and the radiators are cold. Start with the radiator furthest from the boiler and work your way back, making sure to have a cloth or jug handy for any drips. This process should help clear the airlocks and restore your hot water.

Boiler or Pipe Leaks

Inspect your boiler and pipes for any visible leaks. If you spot any, tighten any loose connections if it’s safe to do so. If it looks more serious call out an emergency plumber (like us).

bathroom

When to Bring in the Pros

You’ve done everything you can – resetting the thermostat, thawing pipes, checking boiler pressure, relighting the pilot light, bleeding radiators, and inspecting for leaks. But if you still have no hot water, it’s time to get help. 

 

Complex Repairs

Certain problems, like a faulty diverter valve or heating element, require specialised tools and expertise. Attempting these repairs without proper knowledge can lead to more damage and costly fixes. Professionals can quickly diagnose and repair these components, ensuring your system runs smoothly.

 

Persistent Issues

Persistent issues often indicate deeper problems that need expert attention. These could be signs of more complex faults like a faulty diverter valve or heating element. Continuing to DIY in these cases can lead to more damage, higher costs, and potential safety risks. When in doubt, always opt for professional help to ensure a safe and efficient fix.

 

Safety Concerns

Dealing with gas and electrical components can be risky. If you suspect a gas leak or notice any electrical faults, it’s crucial to contact a professional immediately. Safety should always be a priority, and professionals have the training and equipment to handle these hazards safely.

 

Boiler or Pipe Leaks

If you notice significant leaks or if tightening connections doesn’t stop the leak, it’s essential to call a professional. Leaks can cause water damage and affect your boiler’s efficiency. An emergency plumber can assess the situation and provide the necessary repairs to prevent further issues.

 

Benefits of Hiring a Professional (like us)

  • Expertise and tools: professionals bring specialised knowledge, experience, and tools that ensure accurate diagnosis and efficient repairs.
  • Assurance of safety and efficiency: hiring a professional guarantees that the job is done safely and correctly, reducing the risk of future issues and improving the overall efficiency of your heating system.

     

Dealing with no hot water can be a real hassle, but a bit of troubleshooting can often resolve the issue. However, knowing when to call in the professionals is crucial for more complex problems.

At George Kitchen Plumbing & Heating, we’re here to help with all your heating and plumbing needs. Covering the Spalding and Lincolnshire area, our team of experts is ready to get your hot water back on track quickly and efficiently. For reliable and professional service, don’t hesitate to contact us today.