There’s nothing worse than a cold shower, especially when you’re used to the comfort of hot water in your Myrtle Beach home. If your water heater isn’t heating water properly, it can be a real inconvenience. It’s important to address the issue quickly to avoid further damage and high repair costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your water heater isn’t heating water in Myrtle Beach.

Check the Power Supply

First things first: check if the water heater is getting power. If you have an electric water heater, ensure that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Sometimes, a tripped breaker is all that stands between you and a hot shower. Switch the breaker off, then back on to perform a reset. If the breaker trips again, there could be a more serious electrical issue at play, such as a short circuit. In that case, it’s best to call for water heater repair in Myrtle Beach, SC, right away.

Look to see if the pilot light is still lit on your gas water heater. If it’s out, relight it. Sometimes, the pilot light goes out due to drafts or dust buildup. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting the pilot light safely.

Inspect the Thermostat

The thermostat plays a key role in controlling the temperature of the water in your heater. A malfunctioning thermostat setting might be stopping your water heater from warming up. Check that it’s set around 120°F for hot water. If the temperature is set correctly, but you’re still not getting hot water, the thermostat might be malfunctioning and in need of repair.

If you have a dual-element water heater, there may be two thermostats, one for the upper heating element and one for the lower. Both can fail, and a malfunction in either can prevent the water from heating properly. A faulty thermostat will often require professional repair.

Check for Sediment Buildup

Over time, sediment can build up inside your water heater, especially if you have hard water in Myrtle Beach. Sediment buildup may block the heating elements, reducing how well they warm the water. If your water heater isn’t heating water properly, sediment buildup may be to blame. You can try flushing the tank to remove the sediment, which can improve efficiency and restore heat.

Flushing the water heater is a relatively simple process. Shut off the power, hook a hose to the drain valve, and let the tank empty. Be careful—the water could be hot. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, calling for water heater repair in Myrtle Beach is always a good option.

Look for Leaks or Corrosion

Corrosion or leaking areas might interfere with the unit’s ability to heat water correctly. Water heaters are built to last, but they can still corrode or suffer damage from leaks over time. A wet base under the water heater usually signals a leak that may be causing heating problems. It’s important to address leaks quickly, as they can lead to more severe damage to your home if not repaired promptly.

Corrosion on the tank or its parts often means your heater is getting old. While some corrosion can be cleaned up, extensive damage to the tank or components may require replacing the entire unit. For corrosion issues, calling a professional for water heater repair in Myrtle Beach ensures that the problem is handled safely.

Call a Professional for Water Heater Repair in Myrtle Beach

If you’ve checked all the basics—power, thermostat, sediment, and leaks—and your water heater still isn’t heating water, it may be time to call in the professionals. Water heater repair in Myrtle Beach can be tricky, especially when dealing with complex electrical or gas issues. Hiring an experienced technician can save you time and frustration, and it ensures that the job is done right.

A professional plumber can diagnose the issue, perform the necessary repairs, and offer advice on maintaining your water heater for better efficiency and longer life. An older water heater with constant issues may need a full replacement. A professional can help you assess whether repair or replacement is the better option.

When to Replace Your Water Heater

Sometimes, repairs just aren’t enough. A heater over 10 years old with ongoing issues might be cheaper to replace. New models use less energy and lower your bills.

When you need a new water heater, a professional plumber can guide you through the process of selecting the best model for your needs. Whether it’s an electric or gas unit, they can recommend a solution that fits your home’s needs and your budget.

Why Master Plumbing Services?

If you’re experiencing problems with your water heater, it’s time to call Master Plumbing Services. We’ve been serving the Myrtle Beach area for over 24 years, providing reliable and high-quality water heater repair in Myrtle Beach, SC. Our team has over 25 years of experience and is ready to tackle any plumbing issue, including water heater repairs.

As a Christian, family-owned business, we approach every job with honesty, integrity, and a personal touch. Our SC Master Plumbing License reflects our expertise and dedication to delivering top-tier service. Whether it’s a quick repair or a complex installation, we provide a reliable, professional experience from start to finish.

Making sure our customers are happy is what we do best. We offer free estimates, 24/7 emergency service, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re working with the best in the business. Trust us to handle your water heater repair needs and more. We’re here for you every step of the way.