Gas Water Heater: Quick Fixes, Maintenance & How‑to Guides

If your shower suddenly goes cold, the first thing to check is the gas water heater. A well‑kept heater gives you steady hot water and saves you from pricey repairs. Below you’ll get straight‑forward advice on the most common problems, easy fixes you can try at home, and clear signs it’s time to call a professional.

Common Issues and Simple Fixes

Reset button won’t stay on. Many heaters have a safety reset that trips when the water gets too hot. Press the button for about five seconds, wait a minute, then try again. If it trips repeatedly, the thermostat or a stuck flame sensor may be to blame – that’s a job for a qualified tech.

No hot water at all. First, make sure the gas supply valve is open. Next, check the pilot light; if it’s out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If the pilot won’t stay lit, the thermocouple could be dirty or worn.

Leaking water. A small drip near the bottom often means a loose pressure‑relief valve or a worn gasket. Turn off the gas and electricity, then tighten the valve or replace the gasket. Persistent leaks from the tank itself usually mean the unit is at the end of its life.

Strange noises. Gurgling, banging, or sputtering usually points to sediment buildup inside the tank. Turn off the heater, let the water cool, then flush the tank by attaching a garden hose to the drain valve and running water until it’s clear. Doing this once a year keeps the heater running efficiently.

When to Call a Pro

Gas work isn’t a DIY project once you start dealing with the burner, gas lines, or internal electronics. If you smell gas, hear a hissing sound, or the heater won’t ignite after several attempts, shut the gas off and call a licensed plumber or heating specialist right away. Trying to fix a gas leak yourself can be dangerous.

Even if the unit seems to work after a reset, recurring problems often signal deeper issues such as a cracked heat exchanger or a failing control board. In those cases a professional diagnosis can prevent a breakdown that leaves you without hot water for weeks.

Our team at Weymouth Appliance Repair can handle everything from simple resets to full boiler and water‑heater replacements. We also offer regular boiler service (see our "What’s Included in a Boiler Service?" guide) to keep all your heating systems in top shape.

For more specific advice, check out these related articles on our site: "How Long Should You Hold the Reset Button on a Water Heater?", "Water Heater Resetting: Why You Need To Do It Again and Again", and "Common Oven Problems" for broader appliance troubleshooting tips.

Remember, a little maintenance now—flushing the tank, checking the pressure‑relief valve, and testing the reset—can add years to your gas water heater’s life and spare you a costly emergency call. When in doubt, give us a call. We’re quick, reliable, and happy to get your hot water flowing again.