Water heater not working?
by
VJ
+11
Hi, one fine day my water heater stopped working out of the blue. I believe the hot water stopped some time when I took an extended shower with hot water on.
To diagnose, I went to the heater closet to check it but could not figure out much from looking at outside.
Before I call a technician and spend 100s, can I get some suggestions for things to look out for. Any basic things I can try before I call a technician.
Also can someone suggest if it is a Gas or Electric heater? Looks like a gas heater from GE model PG38T09AXK to me.
Attached some of the pics for the same.
Thanks
It is a gas water heater. From your posted message, it's clear you are not "handy"...said with all due respect. This model had longevity issues, and is no longer in their product line. Many had problems within a year, due to a thermocouple problem. If you have the owner's manual, it'll walk you through relighting the pilot, if it does not have electronic ignition.
How old is the water heater?
Since I see an exhaust pipe I would say it is gas. Electric ones don't need that. How old is the heater? If more than 12 years old, then it should be replaced by a certified installer. Gas is not something that should be messed with by a untrained person.
Gas water heater. Seems it has a short life span. Burner and thermocouple problems. Owners manual should show how to light the pilot. If it doesn't stay lit the thermocouple is bad. With the questions you ask you are not handy enough to work on it. I recommend replacing it since all the reviews are negative and the problems with that model.
Unfortunately your best bet is to call in a pro here. It's too easy to do harm to a water heater if you're not sure what you're looking for or at.
Yeah definitely gas. I would consider an on demand water heater is a possible replacement in the future, we love ours!
I do not know why people think gas water heaters have a short life. My neighbors is working for the past 21 years and the only problem was the thermostat. Replaceable and easy to relight.
Prices vary depending where you live. Get at least three estimates. You don't need to buy a high end heater. A basic heater would be the cheapest. I bought a Richmond a few years ago to replace mine from Menard's. They are a generic brand made by Rheem.