problem

cause

solution

Improperly sealed, hot or cold supply connections, relief valve, drain valve or thermostat threads

Tighten threaded connections

Leakage from other appliances or water lines

Inspect other appliances near water heater.

Leakage under water heater

Refer to Condensation (on your water heater owner's manual)

Thermal expansion in closed water system

Install thermal expansion tank
(DO NOT plug T & P valve)

Improperly seated valve

Check relief valve for proper operation
(DO NOT plug T & P valve)

High sulfate or mineral content in water supply.

Drain & flush heater thoroughly, then refill

Bacteria in water supply

Chlorinate water supply

Dirty pilot burner

Clean pilot assembly

Thermocouple tip is not in contact w/ pilot frame

Insert thermocouple correctly

Thermocouple malfunction

Replace thermocouple

Thermocouple malfunction

Check thermostat

Gas knob dial not positioned correctly

Refer to Lighting Instructions (on your water heater owner's manual)

Pilot orifice clogged

Clean or replace pilot orifice

Pinched or clogged pilot tube

Replace pilot tube

Main gas supply off

Turn on main gas shutoff valve

Heater not lit or thermostat not on

Refer to Lighting Instructions (on your water heater owner's manual)

Thermostat set too low

Refer to Temperature Regulation (on your water heater owner's manual)

Heater undersized

Reduce hot water use

Low gas pressure

Contact your hot water heater dealer

Incoming water is unusually cold

Allow more time for heater to reheat

Leaking hot water pipes or fixtures

Have professional plumber check & repair leaks

High temperature limit switch activated

Contact your hot water heater dealer to determine cause

Thermostat set too high

Refer to High Temperature Regulation (on your water heater owner's manual)

Condensation dripping on burner

Refer to Condensation (on your water heater owner's manual)

Sediment at bottom of heater tank

Clean sediment from tank. Refer to Draining Instructions (on your water heater owner's manual)

Improper combustion

Refer to Air Requirements (on your water heater owner's manual)