What to Do When You Need Water Heater Repair in Tampa

Lacking hot water at home is more than just annoying—it can disrupt your entire day. Whether you’re trying to shower, wash dishes, or clean up, a broken water heater makes everything more complicated. If you're in Tampa, Florida, and this happens to you, there are a few steps you can take before calling a plumber.

In this guide, we’ll walk through six things you should do when your water heater isn’t working. These steps can help you identify the issue and even resolve minor problems on your own.

Things to Do When You Need Water Heater Repair 

1. Check the Power or Gas Supply First

Before proceeding, ensure that your water heater is receiving power or gas. This is one of the most common and easiest problems to fix.

If you have an electric water heater, go to your circuit breaker box. Look for a switch that may have tripped and reset it if needed. If the breaker trips again immediately, that’s a sign that there’s a bigger issue.

If you have a gas water heater, check the pilot light. If it’s out, follow your unit’s instructions to relight it. If it continues to malfunction, the thermocouple or gas control valve may be defective. You’ll need a pro for that.

2. Adjust the Temperature Settings

Sometimes the heater is running, but the water just isn’t hot enough. In that case, check the temperature setting.

Most water heaters should be set to about 120°F. That’s warm enough for daily use but still safe to use. You can adjust the temperature using the thermostat dial on your unit. If you’ve got kids at home, it’s better not to go much higher.

If you turn it up and still don’t feel hot water after an hour, the thermostat may be failing, or your heating element could be damaged.

3. Look for Leaks Around the Unit

A leaky water heater can waste water, increase your bill, and damage your floors or walls. Catching leaks early can save you from a much bigger repair.

Look for puddles under the tank or wet spots on the walls or floor. Check the pipes leading into and out of the heater. Also, check the pressure relief valve—it can leak if pressure builds up too much. If the tank itself is leaking from the bottom, it likely needs to be replaced.

Even small leaks can be a clue that it’s time for professional water heater repair in Tampa that homeowners can count on.

4. Drain the Tank to Clear Out Sediment

Tampa’s water supply contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Over time, these build up inside your tank. Sediment can block the heating element, reducing the unit’s efficiency.

Here’s how you can drain the tank:

• Turn off the power or gas

• Let the water cool for a few hours

• Hook up a hose to the drain valve at the bottom

• Open the valve and let the water drain outside

• Close the valve and refill the tank before restarting

This should be done once or twice a year. If you hear popping or banging sounds from the heater, sediment is likely the cause.

If sediment flushing doesn’t help, it may be time to consider water heater repair, as recommended by Tampa professionals for long-lasting results.

5. Listen for Strange Noises

Strange noises can mean your heater is working harder than it should. Popping, banging, or hissing sounds often come from sediment buildup. As the water heats, bubbles rise up through the hardened sediment, creating noise.

At other times, noises can indicate that the heating element is malfunctioning. Some sounds may even point to high pressure or air in the system. Either way, if you notice new or loud noises, it’s best to take action early.

Try flushing the tank first. If the sound continues, it’s likely time to call in a licensed plumber.

6. Know When to Call a Licensed Plumber

If you’ve tried all the steps above and still don’t have hot water—or if things seem worse after checking—it’s time to call an expert.

Here are clear signs you need a pro:

• No hot water after the power and settings check

• Water that smells bad or looks rusty

• Leaks that keep coming back

• Pilot light won’t stay on

• Water pressure is too high or too low

• Constant noises even after draining

A licensed plumber has the tools and experience to inspect your heater safely. They’ll also know if the unit can be repaired or if a replacement makes more sense.

Bottom Line

When your water heater breaks down, you don’t need to panic. Start with the basics—check the power or gas, review the temperature settings, look for leaks, and drain the tank to remove sediment. Listen for noises and don’t ignore minor problems. If the issue persists, contact someone who knows how to resolve it.

If you’re in Tampa and need expert help, Pompa Plumbing Group is a trusted choice for water heater services. Their licensed team understands the plumbing challenges specific to Tampa homes and offers honest repair or replacement options. Whether it’s a small fix or a full system replacement, they’re ready to help get your hot water running again.