There’s nothing that wakes you up quite like the shock of an ice-cold shower. One minute you’re expecting steam and comfort, and the next, you’re dancing away from a jet of freezing water, wondering what just happened.

At ABA Plumbing & Gas, we hear this story all the time. And while it always feels like a disaster in the moment, most hot water problems have a straightforward cause and a clear solution. So before you panic, here are five of the most common reasons your hot water system might be playing up, and what you can do next.

1. The Pilot Light’s Gone Out

If you have a gas system, the issue could be as simple as the pilot light. Adelaide’s chilly winds and sudden weather drops can sometimes snuff it out. In other cases, a minor gas supply hiccup might be to blame. Most units will have instructions for safely relighting the pilot – check your manual. But if you’re relighting it more often than not, it’s time to call in a pro. A persistent problem usually points to a deeper fault.

2. A Tripped Switch or Blown Fuse

Your switchboard is the first place to check when it comes to electric systems, so if your system abruptly stops functioning, start by checking the circuit breaker or fuse as these are usually the most common cause for no hot water. Try turning the breaker back on or changing the fuse to see if everything goes back to normal. If the problem persists, there might be an internal unit malfunction, which is best left to a qualified technician.

3. A Faulty Thermostat or Element

When your water turns lukewarm or goes completely cold, your thermostat or heating element could be to blame. These components don’t last forever, especially in older systems. A faulty thermostat might read the wrong temperature, while a damaged element simply won’t heat. The good news? These parts can usually be repaired or replaced without having to ditch the whole system.

4. Sediment Build-Up in the Tank

Mineral deposits may accumulate inside your tank over time due to Adelaide’s hard water. This sediment sinks to the bottom, forming a crusty layer that reduces efficiency by insulating the heating element. Popping noises, murky water or uneven heating could be observed. You can easily avoid this problem with routine flushing, but if your system hasn’t been cleaned in a long time, then a professional cleaning may be necessary.

5. Your System’s at the End of Its Life

No hot water system lasts forever and if yours is over 10 years old and starting to show signs of wear such as rust, leaking or poor performance then it may be nearing the end of its run. Rather than spending more on patch-up jobs, it could be time to think of a hot water replacement and upgrade to a newer, more efficient model that will save you money in the long run and restore your comfort instantly.

When in Doubt, call ABA Plumbing & Gas – Hot Water Plumber Adelaide Local Trust

We have been helping Adelaide households get their hot water back for years. From a quick fix to a deep-clean and even a full system replacement, we make it totally hassle free for you. No fuss, no runaround, just honest advice and reliable service from licensed experts who show up on time.

If your hot water system is playing up, don’t wait for it to fail completely. Give ABA Plumbing & Gas a call – we are available 24/7 across Adelaide. Because when your shower turns cold, we turn up.