If you’ve ever turned on the shower only to be greeted by cold water, you know how frustrating it can be when your water heater suddenly stops working. For homeowners in Ventura County, where hard water and coastal weather can add extra stress to plumbing systems, water heater issues are especially common. Whether you need a quick reset or full water heater repair in Ventura County, understanding the problem is the first step to getting your hot water back.
Why Isn’t My Water Heater Working?
A water heater can stop working for a few reasons:
- Power or Gas Supply Issues – Electric water heaters rely on circuit breakers and thermostats, while gas models need a steady gas supply and a working pilot light.
- Sediment Buildup – Ventura County’s hard water often leads to mineral deposits in the tank, reducing efficiency and sometimes blocking heating elements.
- Faulty Parts – Common failures include the thermostat, heating element, or igniter.
- Tripped Safety Features – Many units have reset buttons that trip when overheating is detected.
Tip for Homeowners: Always start with the basics—check that your breaker hasn’t tripped, your pilot light is on, and the thermostat is set correctly.
Common Water Heater Problems in Ventura County
- Sediment buildup – Hard water minerals settle at the bottom of the tank, causing popping noises, low efficiency, and sometimes overheating.
- Ignition failures – Gas heaters often fail to ignite due to dirty burners or a bad thermocouple.
- Leaks – Pipe leak repair may be needed if you see pooling water. Leaks can also mean tank failure if they’re coming from the base.
- No hot water – Often linked to electrical failures, broken heating elements, or gas supply problems.
“Even a small issue like a faulty thermostat can leave you without hot water. A quick professional check can save hours of frustration.” – Dunbar Plumbing Technician
DIY Fixes vs. Calling a Plumber
There are a few simple checks homeowners can safely try:
- Reset the water heater (look for the red button on the upper thermostat of electric models).
- Relight the pilot light on a gas unit if it’s gone out.
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment.
However, bigger issues require professional help.
Myth vs. Fact
- Myth: Fixing a water heater is always a quick DIY job.
- Fact: Gas and electrical repairs can be dangerous. A licensed plumber in Newbury Park can safely diagnose and fix the problem without risk of injury or damage.
Why Choose Dunbar Plumbing?
Dunbar Plumbing has been helping Ventura County families with water heater repair, replacement, and emergency plumbing services for years. Whether it’s a late-night breakdown or a scheduled replacement, our team provides:
- Water heater repair in Ventura County – including gas, electric, and tankless units.
- Drain cleaning services and pipe leak repair – often tied to water heater issues.
- Upgrades & replacements – energy-efficient models installed to last.
Preventing Future Hot Water Heater Problems
Want to extend the life of your system? Try these maintenance steps:
- Flush the tank yearly to remove sediment.
- Inspect water pressure—high pressure shortens a heater’s lifespan.
- Insulate pipes and tanks—especially during chilly Ventura County nights.
Homeowner Tip: Open cabinet doors on cold nights to let warm air reach your pipes. This can help prevent frozen supply lines feeding your water heater.
Conclusion
When your water heater stops working, the problem could be as simple as a reset or as serious as a failing tank. While some quick checks are safe to try, most repairs are best left to professionals. If you live in Newbury Park or anywhere in Ventura County, Dunbar Plumbing is your trusted local expert for fast, reliable water heater service.
Call Dunbar Plumbing today for expert water heater repair in Ventura County—
So you can get back to enjoying hot showers without the stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my hot water heater to work again?
Start by checking the thermostat, power source, or pilot light. If those don’t fix the issue, call a licensed plumber. Dunbar Plumbing can quickly diagnose and repair water heater problems for Ventura County homeowners.
What is the most common water heater problem?
Sediment buildup from hard water is the most common issue. This causes poor efficiency, strange noises, and sometimes overheating. A plumber can flush the tank and restore performance.
Why is my hot water heater not igniting?
Ignition failures are often caused by dirty burners, a faulty thermocouple, or gas supply problems. Since gas repairs involve safety risks, it’s best to call Dunbar Plumbing for help.
Is it easy to fix a hot water heater?
Minor resets are simple, but most repairs require technical skill. Gas and electrical systems should always be handled by professionals.
How do I reset a water heater?
For electric models, press the red reset button on the thermostat panel. Gas heaters usually require relighting the pilot light.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a heater?
Repairs are usually cheaper in the short term. But if your heater is over 10 years old, replacement may save money long term on energy and repair costs.
What is the average lifespan of a water heater?
Most water heaters last 8–12 years, though tankless units can last up to 20 years with proper care.
How do I relight my water heater?
Locate the gas control knob, turn it to “pilot,” press, and use a lighter or ignition button as instructed. If it won’t stay lit, the thermocouple may be bad and require service.
How to test if a hot water heater is broken?
Check if the unit has power, the pilot is lit, or water is leaking. A plumber can perform advanced testing of elements, thermostats, and valves.
How long do you hold the reset button on a hot water heater?
Hold it down for about 5–10 seconds, then release. If it keeps tripping, there’s likely a deeper issue.
How often should a water heater be flushed?
Once a year is recommended, especially in Ventura County’s hard water areas. This prevents sediment buildup and improves efficiency.
How much is a water heater thermostat?
Replacement thermostats generally cost $100–$200, not including labor. Professional installation ensures proper calibration and safety.
What tools are needed to reset a water heater?
Usually, no tools are needed. Just press the reset button or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting.
Why would a water heater need to be reset?
The reset button trips when the unit overheats or has an electrical fault. It’s a safety feature to prevent fires or damage.
Why is my water heater not working and the breaker not tripped?
This may be due to a failed heating element or thermostat. A plumber can test and replace faulty components.
Why is my water not getting hot?
Common reasons include a broken thermostat, heating element, or ignition failure. Dunbar Plumbing can quickly identify the cause and fix it.
Does Home Depot repair water heaters?
Home Depot contracts installation services, but they don’t directly repair units. For repairs, it’s best to hire a licensed local plumber.
Where do most water heaters fail?
Most failures occur at the tank bottom due to corrosion. This is why flushing and anode rod replacement are so important.
Can I manually light my water heater?
Yes, if your model has a pilot light. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and call a plumber if it won’t stay lit.
How much does it cost to replace a water heater igniter?
On average, replacing an igniter costs $150–$300 with labor. Costs vary depending on the unit type.
How long does a water heater last?
Most last 10–12 years, though regular maintenance can extend their lifespan.
Is it worth fixing a water heater?
If the unit is under 8 years old, repairs are usually worth it. Beyond that, replacement may be more cost-effective
How do I flush a water heater?
Turn off the power, attach a hose to the drain valve, and flush until clear water runs. A plumber can handle this if you’re unsure.
How do you know when a hot water heater needs to be replaced?
Signs include leaks, rusty water, strange noises, or frequent repairs. A plumber can confirm if replacement is best.
Can a plumber relight a water heater?
Yes, plumbers can safely relight gas water heaters and check for deeper issues. Dunbar Plumbing offers this service locally.
Is there a reset button on a hot water heater?
Yes, most electric models have one on the upper thermostat panel. Gas units use a pilot reset instead.
How much does it cost to relight a hot water heater?
Typically, $175 depending on the plumber and location. This may also include a safety inspection.
Do you have to turn off the breaker to reset a water heater?
For safety, yes—turning off the breaker before working on the unit is recommended.
How do I get my hot water tank to work?
Check the power, pilot light, and thermostat. If those are fine but you still have no hot water, call a plumber.
Where is the fuse on my water heater?
Most electric water heaters use a circuit breaker instead of a fuse. Some models may have fuses inside the control panel, which should only be inspected by a professional.
