So you turn on the shower, and instead of warm water, you get ice. Ugh. Don't panic—this happens to almost everyone, and most times, it's a quick fix. Let's get that hot water flowing again without calling a pro first.
It's rarely the weather. Your water heater's usually the culprit. Maybe you accidentally turned the thermostat down, the reset button tripped after a power flicker, or sediment's built up inside the tank. If your heater's over 10 years old, it's probably time to replace it. Also, check if the cold water valve got accidentally shut—happens more often than you'd think. And if you've got a boiler, it might be causing the issue, but that's less common for cold taps.
Grab your phone and check the thermostat first. Electric heaters have it on the side; gas ones are near the bottom. Turn it up 5 degrees and wait 30 minutes. If that doesn't work, hit the reset button (usually red) on your water heater. For gas heaters, make sure the pilot light's on. If you're still stuck, try flushing your tank—it's the #1 fix for cold water. Turn off power and water, hook up a hose, and let it run until the water clears. Takes 15 minutes and saves you a fortune.
If you've had this problem before, flushing is your new best friend. Sediment clogs the tank and makes it work harder. You'll notice a huge difference in hot water quality after doing it. And if you're not sure how, we've got a free video guide on our site.
But if none of this works? Call a plumber. Don't waste time waiting for a fix that won't happen. A pro can sort it fast and tell you if it's time for a new water heater—sometimes replacing is cheaper than repairing. And if you're in Taunton, we're on call for fast, no-nonsense service. No stress, no surprises—just hot water when you need it.
Posted by
Orin Trask
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Having a water heater that only provides cold water when you've been anticipating a hot shower can be a baffling problem. In this guide, we'll explore practical steps to diagnose and fix a water heater dispensing cold water. Learn how various components like thermostats, heating elements, and power supply affect your heater's performance. With these insights and easy-to-follow tips, you'll be better equipped to restore your water heater to its optimal functionality.
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