No Hot Water — Troubleshooting Guide

No hot water usually means a pilot, thermostat, or breaker issue — not always a dead tank.

Common causes

• Pilot light or igniter failure (gas)
• Tripped breaker or blown element (electric)
• Failed thermostat
• Gas supply valve accidentally closed

Step-by-step

1. 01Gas tank: check the pilot through the sight window; relight per the label
2. 02Electric tank: check the breaker; reset the high-limit switch behind the panel
3. 03Verify the thermostat setpoint (120°F is normal)
4. 04If the tank is cold-to-touch after 60 minutes, the heating source is the issue

When to call Northbridge

• Pilot won't stay lit after relighting
• Breaker keeps tripping
• You smell gas near the tank
• Water is warm but not hot