What To Do When Your Water Heater Stops Heating: A Cleveland Case Study

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The Unexpected Cold Shower

A homeowner in Cleveland discovered that her water heater—working fine just hours before—suddenly delivered only cold water. Frustrated and unsure what to try, she contacted HEP for help.

Over time, sediment and mineral deposits collect around piping and fixtures. As shown above, corrosion can build up near the top of an older tank-style heater, affecting safety switches and heating elements.

Diagnosis and Quick Restoration

When our HEP technician arrived, he performed a step-by-step inspection. He found that the unit’s internal safety switch had been activated—likely by a recent electrical surge. After resetting that switch and letting the system restart, hot water returned within minutes.

Above is the “after” view: a clean water heater, secure copper piping, and a properly mounted expansion tank. Keeping connections tight and components accessible helps prevent future issues.

Important Homeowner Tips

Locate and Reset the Safety Switch
Many tank-style heaters have a reset button on the upper thermostat. If your water goes cold unexpectedly, a quick press of that button may restore heat—just allow a few minutes for the tank to warm up again.
Document Your Water Heater Details
Take a clear photo of the nameplate on your heater (model, serial number, voltage). This information is invaluable for future servicing or warranty work.
Schedule an Annual Flush
Mineral buildup reduces efficiency and can trigger safety devices. Having a professional flush your tank once a year removes deposits and keeps everything running smoothly.
Plan for Replacement After 10 Years
Standard tanked heaters usually last about a decade. If yours is over 10 years old, discuss repair versus replacement with a HEP technician to avoid unexpected failures.

When to Call a HEP Technician

If resetting the switch doesn’t restore hot water, or if you spot leaks, odd noises, or rusty water, it’s time to bring in a professional. Our Cleveland-based HEP technicians can safely diagnose the issue, recommend the right solution, and ensure your home stays comfortable all year round.