Logansport Water Heater Not Heating? Plumbing Fixes & Tips

Estimated Read Time: 10 minutes

Water heater not heating? You do not need to start your morning with a cold shower. In this guide, our licensed plumbers explain the five most common reasons your water heater stops producing hot water and how to fix them safely. We cover gas, electric, and tankless units, with simple checks you can do now and clear next steps if a pro is needed. Peru and Kokomo homeowners can also tap our current $59 flush and inspection to prevent repeat failures.

Quick Safety First

Before any troubleshooting, turn off power and fuel. For electric units, switch the breaker off at the panel. For gas units, set the gas control to Off and close the gas shutoff valve. Water at 120 to 140 degrees can scald fast, so let the unit cool before touching components. Every water heater has a temperature and pressure relief valve that is designed to open if temperature exceeds 210 F or pressure reaches 150 psi. Never cap or plug this valve or its discharge pipe.

1) No Power, Tripped Breaker, or Pilot Out

When there is no heat at all, start with the energy source.

• Electric heaters: A tripped breaker or a blown high‑limit reset is common after a brief power surge. Check the dedicated breaker in your electrical panel. If it is in the middle position, switch it fully Off, then On. Remove the upper access panel on the heater and press the red reset button on the upper thermostat. If it clicks, power had been interrupted.
• Gas tank heaters: If the pilot is out or the gas control set to Vacation, you will only get lukewarm water. Follow the lighting instructions on the unit’s label to relight the pilot. Modern models often use spark or hot surface igniters instead of standing pilots. Confirm the gas shutoff valve handle is parallel to the pipe for On.
• Tankless: Tankless units require electrical power even when fueled by gas. Check the GFCI outlet and breaker, then the unit’s error code display. Many tankless models lock out when they sense ignition failure or low gas pressure.

Fix steps you can try now:

1. Verify power at the breaker and reset GFCI outlets nearby.
2. Confirm the thermostat is set near 120 F, not Vacation.
3. For gas units, ensure gas is on and relight according to the label.

Call a pro if the breaker trips again, the pilot will not stay lit, or the tankless shows repeating error codes. Repeated trips often mean a failing heating element, igniter, or wiring fault that needs testing with a multimeter.

2) Sediment Buildup Chokes Heating Performance

Mineral sediment collects at the bottom of tank heaters and around heating elements. As the layer thickens, it insulates the water from the heat, so the burner or elements run longer with poor results. You may hear rumbling or crackling as trapped water flashes to steam under the sediment.

Why this matters:

• Hot water volume drops and recovery time increases.
• Energy use rises because the unit works harder.
• Sediment accelerates corrosion that can shorten tank life.

DIY steps:

1. Shut power or gas off. Close the cold water supply valve.
2. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve, route to a floor drain, and open the valve. Open a nearby hot tap to break vacuum. Drain until clear.
3. Briefly pulse the cold supply to stir remaining sediment and continue flushing. Close the drain, remove the hose, and refill before restoring power.

Professional tune‑up benefits:

• We flush sediment thoroughly and clean burners or elements so the unit fires correctly.
• We test the temperature and pressure relief valve at each visit and replace it if needed.
• We check combustion air, draft, and CO readings on gas units for safety.

If you are in Peru or Wabash, our $59 Water Heater Flush and Plumbing Inspection is the fastest way to restore steady hot water and reduce energy waste.

3) Failed Heating Element, Thermostat, Thermocouple, or Igniter

When power and fuel are confirmed but water stays cold or lukewarm, key components may have failed.

• Electric tanks: Each unit has upper and lower heating elements and thermostats. If the upper element fails, you usually get no hot water. If the lower element fails, you get a short burst of hot water then cold. Elements can be tested with a multimeter for continuity. Thermostats can also fail and misread temperature.
• Gas tanks: A bad thermocouple on older pilot systems will not signal the gas valve to stay open. Modern models use flame sensors and hot surface igniters that can foul or crack. If the burner never lights or lights then drops out, suspect the sensor or igniter.
• Tankless: Error codes often point to ignition failure, flame sensing issues, or inlet thermistor faults. Dirty flame rods and blocked intake screens are common culprits.

What a pro does:

1. Power down and remove access panels to test elements and thermostats with a meter.
2. Inspect and clean burners, flame sensors, and igniters. Replace worn parts.
3. On tankless units, read error logs, clean inlet filters, descale the heat exchanger, and verify gas pressure under load.

Replacement vs repair:

• If your tank is 8 to 12 years old and has repeated component failures or rust, consider replacement with a high‑efficiency model. New tanks have better insulation and can lower costs.
• Tankless systems can often be restored with maintenance and parts. If age is 15 years or more, a replacement review is wise.

4) Thermostat Settings, Mixing Valves, and Crossover Issues

Sometimes the heater is fine but delivery is not.

• Thermostat too low: Vacation mode or a setting below 120 F can feel like cold water at the tap, especially in winter when inlet water is colder in Miami and Cass counties.
• Mixing valve trouble: Many homes have a thermostatic mixing valve that blends hot and cold for scald protection. If it sticks, it can throttle hot water.
• Crossover in plumbing: A failed single‑handle faucet cartridge can allow cold water to cross into the hot line, cooling the entire system.

How to check:

1. Confirm the water heater dial is set near 120 F. Wait a full hour and recheck temperature.
2. If a single bathroom has weak heat, check that faucet for cartridge failure. Turn off that fixture’s hot and cold stops. If whole‑home hot water improves, replace the cartridge.
3. If you have a mixing valve at the heater, have a tech test and recalibrate or replace it.

When to call:

• If temperature swings are severe or scald protection devices fail tests. A professional can test flow, calibrate the valve, and check for crossover quickly.

5) Leaks, Dip Tube Failure, or T&P Valve Problems

Leaks reduce capacity and trigger safety shutoffs. A failed dip tube sends cold inlet water straight to the hot outlet, so you get bursts of cold.

Signs to watch:

• Puddles around the tank, wet insulation, or rusty streaks.
• Constant water at the temperature and pressure relief valve discharge pipe.
• Short hot water run time despite correct thermostat settings.

What to do:

1. If the tank leaks from the body, shut water and power off and call for replacement. Tank leaks are not repairable.
2. If the drain valve or fittings drip, a tech can often reseal or replace parts.
3. If the T&P valve weeps, it could be thermal expansion or over‑pressure. We test the valve and evaluate expansion control. Never plug the discharge line. Plumbing code requires a full‑size pipe to a safe location, terminating close to the floor.
4. For dip tube failure, we inspect the cold inlet. If the tube is crumbled, we replace it. Plastic shards in aerators are a common clue.

When to Repair vs Replace

Use these rules of thumb:

1. Age and condition
2. • Tank 8 to 12 years: replacement evaluation is smart, especially with rust or frequent repairs.
   • Tankless 15 to 20 years: weigh repair cost and scale condition against new unit efficiency.
2. Efficiency
3. • New tanks have thicker insulation and more efficient controls. A high‑efficiency tank or hybrid heat pump model can cut energy use.
   • Tankless heaters only heat on demand. According to the Department of Energy, tankless models can be 24 to 34 percent more efficient for homes that use 41 gallons or less per day.
3. Capacity and lifestyle
4. • If your family outgrew a 40‑gallon tank, step up to a 50‑ or 75‑gallon model or consider tankless for continuous hot water.
4. Incentives and financing
5. • Ask about current rebates and our financing options to spread costs.

Our team installs Bradford White tanks and Rinnai tankless systems sized for your fixtures, flow rates, and gas or electric service. We pull permits when required and bring the installation to code.

Simple Maintenance That Prevents Cold Showers

Regular service shields your heater from most failures.

• Annual flush: Removes sediment that causes uneven heating and corrosion. This improves recovery time and keeps elements or burners efficient.
• Burner and element cleaning: Ensures the unit fires right when you open a hot tap.
• Anode rod check: The sacrificial anode protects your tank from rust. Replace when heavily depleted.
• T&P test: We test the valve each visit and replace it if it does not seat or lift correctly.
• Venting and combustion air: We verify draft and check for blockages, then test for carbon monoxide on gas units.
• Tankless descaling: We circulate descaler through the heat exchanger and clean inlet filters. Scale is the number one tankless performance killer.

Many Peru and Kokomo homes see longer heater life with simple yearly service. It costs less than most emergency repairs and keeps hot water steady.

Tank vs Tankless: Which Fixes Your No‑Heat Problem Faster?

• Need hot water today: A like‑for‑like tank replacement is often same day. We keep common sizes on trucks and at our local warehouse.
• Running out with back‑to‑back showers: Tankless gives continuous hot water within its flow rating. We size by simultaneous fixtures and winter inlet temperature.
• Limited space: Tankless units are smaller, mount on a wall, and free up floor area.
• Efficiency: Tankless avoids standby losses. Tanks are simpler and have lower upfront costs.

If you are not sure, we provide free second opinions and clear pricing for both options. We can also install recirculation solutions to speed hot water delivery to far fixtures.

Local Insight: Installations That Fit Peru‑Area Homes

Homes along the US‑24 corridor in Peru, Logansport, and Wabash range from older basements with longer pipe runs to newer slab homes with compact mechanical rooms. We check gas line sizing, vent paths, makeup air, and condensate routing before recommending a model. That ensures your new heater complies with code, drafts safely in winter, and delivers the hot water volume your family needs.

DIY Checklist: Before You Call

1. Confirm breaker is On or pilot is lit.
2. Set thermostat to about 120 F.
3. Open a hot tap for 2 minutes to confirm true temperature.
4. Check for error codes on tankless units, then power cycle once.
5. Look for visible leaks or constant dripping from the discharge pipe.
6. Listen for rumbling that points to heavy sediment.

If any step reveals a serious issue, shut power and water off and schedule service. Fast action limits damage and protects your home.

Code and Safety Facts You Should Know

• The temperature and pressure relief valve is a required safety device. It must discharge to a safe location by gravity and must not be reduced in size.
• Gas water heaters need proper combustion air and venting. Backdrafting can introduce carbon monoxide into living spaces.
• Scald protection matters. Keep delivery around 120 F and use mixing valves where required.

Our licensed plumbers follow manufacturer specs and local code. We include safety checks with every visit because hot water should be comfortable and safe.

How We Help, Step by Step

1. Diagnose
2. • We verify power, gas, and controls. We test components with meters, not guesses.
2. Maintain
3. • We flush sediment, clean burners or elements, and test the T&P valve to restore efficiency and safety.
3. Repair
4. • We replace failed parts with quality components and confirm performance at your taps.
4. Replace
5. • We size and install a high‑efficiency tank or a Rinnai tankless system. We handle permits and haul away the old unit.
5. Protect
6. • We offer service plans that include annual flushes and inspections, reminders, and priority scheduling to prevent surprise failures.

Same‑day appointments are available, and our on‑call technicians support you 24/7 for urgent issues.

Special Offers for Peru‑Area Homeowners

• Water Heater Flush + Plumbing Inspection for $59. This month only. Expires 2025‑11‑05. Call (765) 473‑5435 and mention the $59 Flush Special.
• $200 Off Your Purchase of a Tankless Water Heater. This month only. Expires 2025‑11‑05. Call (765) 473‑5435 to redeem the Tankless Discount.

Schedule online at https://www.summersphc.com/peru/ to lock in your savings today.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"Super helpful and quick, replaced our water heater for a very fair price. Dakota, Tom, and Israel were all very nice."
–Creed R., Water Heater Replacement

"Our water heater crapped out on us this past Saturday night, (Memorial Weekend). Having unknown gallons of water flooding into our basement for several hours, Thomas Haguara answered our distress call and stayed past midnight to remove our old and replace with a new one. Anybody else probably would've made us take cold showers for another week."
–Tamara B., Emergency Replacement

"Our plumbing technician, Cooper Blankenship, did a very thorough job checking our systems and flushing our on demand water heater. We really like and appreciate all the Summers technicians. They are very personable and do a great job, neatly and efficiently."
–Joan S., Tankless Maintenance

"Summers installed a tankless water heater for us as well as a sanitizer. All 4 of their plumbers were out at our house at one point or another due to unforseen complications. Every one of them were pite, professional, and clean. Not only that but their on-call tech came put twice that night to help us sort out some small kinks with the new system. Their work is solid and their support is second to none. If you're considering going with Summers, don't hesitate."
–Other‑Other N., Tankless Installation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my water heater not heating but the pilot is on?

If the pilot is on yet water is cold, the gas control valve, thermocouple, or burner may be faulty. Sediment can also smother heat. Have a pro test components.

How long should a water heater last?

Most tank heaters last 8 to 12 years with maintenance. Tankless units often last 15 to 20 years when descaled and serviced regularly.

What temperature should my water heater be set to?

Set around 120 F for comfort and safety. Higher settings increase scald risk and energy use unless a mixing valve is installed.

Is a tankless water heater worth it for a family?

Yes if you want continuous hot water and better efficiency. Proper sizing by fixture count and winter inlet temperature is essential.

Do I need a plumber to flush my water heater?

You can drain sediment yourself, but a professional flush includes valve testing, combustion checks, and element or burner service for better results.

The Bottom Line

If your water heater is not heating, start with safe checks for power, gas, and settings. Sediment, failed elements or igniters, and mixing valve issues cause most no‑heat calls. For Peru, Kokomo, Logansport, and Wabash, we offer same‑day repairs and replacements that restore comfort fast.

Call or Schedule Now

• Call (765) 473‑5435 for 24/7 help. Mention the $59 Flush Special or $200 Tankless Discount.
• Book online at https://www.summersphc.com/peru/ for priority service today.

Get steady hot water, code‑safe installation, and friendly pros who stand behind their work.

Ready for reliable hot water? Call (765) 473‑5435 or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/peru/. Ask for the $59 Flush Special or $200 Off Tankless to save today.

Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling has served Peru and nearby communities for over 40 years with licensed, background‑checked technicians. We install, repair, and maintain tank and tankless water heaters from brands like Rinnai and Bradford White. You get upfront pricing, financing options, and 24/7 emergency service. Our Worry‑Free Guarantee means we match or beat competitor pricing. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Thousands of local homes trust us for fast, courteous, and code‑compliant work.