Common Gas Water Heater Issues & How They're Repaired

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Repairing a Water Heater

Common Gas Water Heater Issues and How They’re Repaired

Your gas water heater is one of the most essential appliances in your home—until it stops working. When that happens, frustration sets in quickly. While some issues are minor, others require professional repair to restore hot water and ensure safety.

The most common culprits of water heater failure include:

  • A faulty gas control valve
  • A malfunctioning chamber temperature sensor
  • A failing pilot assembly
  • Burner issues

Understanding how these components work—and what can go wrong—can help you recognize when it’s time to call a professional for repair.

1. Gas Control Valve Issues

The gas control valve is essentially the brain of your water heater, regulating gas flow to the burner and controlling water temperature. When it malfunctions, the heater may stop producing hot water altogether.

Signs of a Bad Gas Control Valve:

✅ The burner fails to ignite despite an active gas supply.
✅ Error codes appear on the control panel.
✅ Inconsistent water temperature or no hot water at all.

🔧 Solution: Since the gas control valve plays a crucial role in maintaining proper function, a faulty unit usually requires replacement. This component cannot typically be repaired, so a professional will need to install a new one.

2. Chamber Temperature Sensor Malfunctions

This sensor monitors the heat inside the burner chamber and prevents overheating. If it fails, your water heater may shut down as a safety precaution, leaving you without hot water.

Signs of a Failing Temperature Sensor:

✅ The heater shuts off unexpectedly.
✅ Overheating, triggering high-temperature error codes.
✅ Water is too hot or too cold due to inaccurate readings.

🔧 Solution: A malfunctioning temperature sensor should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent dangerous overheating and ensure efficient operation.

3. Pilot Assembly Failures

If your pilot light won’t stay lit or your water heater refuses to ignite, the pilot assembly could be the culprit. This assembly includes:

  • Pilot flame
  • Thermocouple
  • Igniter

Signs of a Malfunctioning Pilot Assembly:

✅ The pilot light frequently goes out.
✅ The burner fails to ignite, even with an active gas supply.
✅ A complete loss of hot water.

🔧 Solution: In some cases, a simple cleaning of the pilot assembly can restore function. However, if the thermocouple, igniter, or pilot itself is worn out, replacement is the best option.

4. Burner Problems

The burner is responsible for heating the water inside your tank. If it isn’t functioning properly, your water heater may struggle to maintain consistent temperatures—or stop working altogether.

Signs of Burner Trouble:

✅ A weak or yellow flame (indicating poor gas flow).
✅ Soot buildup inside the burner chamber.
✅ The burner doesn’t ignite at all.

🔧 Solution: Burner issues can result from clogs, gas pressure problems, or an imbalanced air-to-gas mixture. A thorough cleaning can often fix minor problems, but if the burner is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

When to Call a Professional for Water Heater Repairs

Gas water heater repairs can be complex and hazardous, especially when dealing with gas connections, electrical components, and safety sensors. If you’re experiencing:
✔ Inconsistent hot water
✔ Frequent shutdowns
✔ Pilot light issues

…it’s time to call a licensed plumber before the problem worsens or leads to a total system failure.

📞 Call Nearby Plumbing at 385-308-5384!

🚿 Serving Midvale & West Jordan, Utah—because no one deserves a cold shower! 🚿