Naperville, IL Water Heater Not Heating? Top Plumbing Fixes

Estimated Read Time: 9 minutes

No hot water or lukewarm showers are frustrating. If your water heater is not heating, start with a few quick checks before you panic. This guide covers the most common causes and safe fixes for both tank and tankless systems. We also explain when to call a pro and how to avoid repeat issues. If you need fast help today, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling offers 24/7 emergency service and same-day appointments across Aurora, Joliet, and Naperville.

Quick Safety Check Before You Start

Water heaters involve high temperatures, gas lines, and pressurized water. If you smell gas, see active leaking, or hear loud popping, shut the unit off and call a licensed professional. Repairs should only be done by a qualified plumbing pro if you are unsure at any step. Your safety comes first.

• Electric units: turn off power at the breaker before removing panels.
• Gas units: set the gas valve to Off if you suspect a leak or burner issue.
• Close the cold-water supply if the tank is leaking.

Local tip: Northern Illinois water is typically hard, which speeds up sediment buildup in tanks around Aurora, Plainfield, and Downers Grove. Plan on periodic flushing to protect performance.

1) Power or Gas Supply Issues

Loss of power or gas is the most common reason a water heater is not heating. For electric models, a tripped breaker or a blown fuse interrupts the heating elements. For gas models, a closed gas valve, an extinguished pilot, or an electronic ignition fault can stop the burner.

How to check and fix:

1. Electric
2. • Confirm the breaker is ON. Reset if tripped.
   • Remove the upper access panel and press the red reset button on the high-limit thermostat.
   • Check that both upper and lower heating elements have tight, non-burned connections.
2. Gas
3. • Make sure the gas valve is open and set to On.
   • Verify the pilot light is lit on older units. Relight per manufacturer instructions.
   • On newer units, listen for the spark igniter. If it cycles without ignition, call a pro.

When to call Summers: If the breaker trips again, if you smell gas, or if the pilot will not stay lit, you need a professional diagnosis. We offer same-day service and 24/7 support.

2) Thermostat or Temperature Setting Problems

If the thermostat is set too low or is failing, water will feel lukewarm at best. Many homes see seasonal drift as basements cool and heat demand increases.

How to check and fix:

1. Verify the temperature setting. A common target is 120°F for comfort and safety.
2. On electric units, test both upper and lower thermostats. If one fails, the tank may only heat partially.
3. Inspect wiring for loose or burned connections. Replace components only with compatible parts.

Pro insight: Our multipoint check includes confirming correct settings for temperature, anode rod, pressure valve, ventilation, drain pipes, and pilot light. Small adjustments here restore performance without costly parts.

3) Failed Heating Element or Burner Trouble

Electric tanks use upper and lower elements. If one burns out, recovery time slows and water turns lukewarm. Gas tanks rely on a clean burner and proper combustion. Soot, a faulty thermocouple, or a weak igniter can prevent heating.

How to check and fix:

1. Electric element test
2. • Turn off power. Remove access panels and insulation.
   • Use a multimeter for continuity. No continuity means a failed element.
   • Replace with the same wattage and length. Refill and bleed air before powering on.
2. Gas burner care
3. • Inspect the flame. A strong blue flame with small yellow tips is normal.
   • Clean burner ports if sooty. Replace a weak thermocouple or faulty igniter.

Safety note: Burner and gas valve work should be handled by a licensed tech. We are fully licensed and insured for safe gas diagnostics and repairs.

4) Sediment Buildup and Scale

Hard water leaves mineral scale at the bottom of the tank. Over time, sediment blankets the burner or elements, causing long heat times, rumbling noises, and temperature swings. In Kendall County, sediment can build quickly.

How to check and fix:

1. Listen for rumbling or popping when the burner fires. These noises point to heavy sediment.
2. Drain a few gallons from the tank. If the water runs cloudy or sandy, you have buildup.
3. Flush the tank until clear. Consider an annual flush and anode inspection.

Why it matters: Excess sediment reduces efficiency and shortens the tank’s life. The average water heater lasts 10 to 15 years. Regular flushing helps you reach the high end of that range.

5) Dip Tube, T&P Valve, or Expansion Issues

The dip tube directs incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank. If it cracks or dislodges, cold water mixes at the top and your tap runs lukewarm. A malfunctioning temperature and pressure relief valve can also signal overheating or pressure problems. Expansion tanks that are not correctly pressurized can add stress and reduce heating stability.

How to check and fix:

1. Dip tube
2. • Remove the cold inlet nipple and inspect the tube. Replace if brittle or broken.
2. T&P valve
3. • Test the lever briefly to ensure it moves freely and reseats. Replace if it drips or sticks.
3. Expansion tank
4. • With the system off and pressure drained, set air pressure to match house static pressure.

Our maintenance visit includes checks for expansion tank pressure, leaks, cracks, rust, loose connections, and correct valve settings to keep performance steady.

When to Repair vs. Replace

Not sure whether to keep repairing? Use these guidelines:

1. Age
2. • Tank water heaters: typical life is 10 to 15 years. If yours is near that limit and needs a major part, replacement may be smarter.
   • Tankless systems can last about twice as long with proper maintenance.
2. Cost
3. • If the repair exceeds 50 percent of replacement cost and the unit is older, consider replacement.
3. Symptoms
4. • Frequent leaks, discolored water, and variable temperatures often indicate end-of-life on older tanks.

We help you compare total cost, warranty options, and efficiency to pick the best path for your home and budget.

Tank vs. Tankless: Which Makes Sense?

If hot water demand has outgrown your tank, consider tankless. Benefits include an instant and virtually unending supply of hot water, higher efficiency, and a smaller footprint. Tankless systems often require minimal maintenance and can last twice as long as a conventional tank.

Good fits for tankless:

1. Households with back-to-back showers.
2. Homes adding a bathroom or soaking tub.
3. Families that want space savings and long-term efficiency.

We install, repair, and maintain both tank and tankless systems and will size the right solution for your home.

DIY Fixes You Can Try Today

If your water heater is not heating, try these safe steps:

1. Reset the breaker or high-limit switch on electric units.
2. Verify the gas valve is open and relight the pilot per the manual.
3. Set temperature to 120°F and wait one full heating cycle.
4. Drain a few gallons to clear minor sediment.
5. Check for visible leaks, rust at fittings, or loose wires.

If these do not help, a thorough diagnosis will find the real cause. Our technicians perform a complete evaluation before any repair so you only pay for what you need.

Preventive Maintenance That Pays Off

Our water heater maintenance service is focused on saving you money and extending system life. During a multi-point service check we inspect:

• Leaks, cracks, rust, and loose or faulty wires
• Excess sediment and whether a flush is needed
• Water quality and signs of discoloration
• Expansion tank pressure and condition
• Settings for anode rod, pressure valve, ventilation, drain pipes, pilot light, and temperature
• Pressure valve adjustments as needed
• Loose connections and temperature settings
• Pilot light operation on gas heaters

Members of our maintenance programs enjoy priority responses, savings on repairs and parts, and priority scheduling when urgent issues arise.

Local Signs You Should Call Now

Homeowners around Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and Bolingbrook often notice these early warnings:

1. Rumbling or popping from the tank after long, cold nights.
2. Rusty water from basement taps in older homes near the Fox River corridor.
3. Slow recovery after multiple showers on weekends.

These point to sediment, element failure, or dip tube issues. Quick service now prevents leaks and higher energy bills later.

Why Choose Summers for Water Heater Service

• In business since 1969 with deep Kendall County experience.
• Drug tested, background checked, licensed, and insured technicians.
• Upfront pricing. You agree to the price before work starts.
• Fully stocked trucks for faster same-day repairs.
• 24/7 emergency availability and easy, flexible financing.

We will help you determine your hot water needs and find a budget-friendly solution that provides enough hot water for your family.

Special Offers for Local Homeowners

• Water Heater Flush + Plumbing Inspection $59. This Month Only. Preventative maintenance, improved efficiency, peace of mind, and safety.
• $59 water heater safety inspection. Present coupon at time of service. Schedule by 11/30/25.
• $200 off your water heater purchase. This Month Only.
• $500 off tankless water heater installation. Present coupon at time of service. Schedule by 11/30/25.

Call (331) 294-8731 or book at https://www.summersphc.com/yorkville/ to claim your offer before it expires.

What Homeowners Are Saying

"The technician was On time and a professional... instructed my wife on how to change the temperature on the water heater... Good job Mike."
–Rich S., Water Heater Service

"Water heater went out and it was replaced the same day!"
–Brett W., Water Heater Replacement

"Great service- came out same day made repairs and able to fix water heater rather than replace."
–D. H., Water Heater Repair

"From the first first up to today Cole and Brandon were the best... nonstop working until the new tankless water heater was installed. Great work and awesome clean up afterwards."
–Lakesha G., Tankless Installation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my water heater not heating after a power outage?

A tripped breaker or high-limit switch is common after outages. Reset the breaker and press the unit’s reset button. If it trips again, call a pro.

What temperature should I set my water heater to?

120°F is a safe, efficient target for most homes. It helps prevent scalding, reduces mineral scale, and saves energy while providing comfortable hot water.

How often should I flush my water heater in Northern Illinois?

Once per year is typical. With hard water in areas like Aurora and Joliet, consider every 6 to 9 months to reduce sediment and extend tank life.

When should I replace instead of repair?

If the tank is 10 to 15 years old and needs a major part, replacement often makes sense. Frequent leaks, discolored water, or variable temps support replacement.

Do tankless water heaters really provide endless hot water?

Yes. Properly sized tankless systems provide an instant and virtually unending supply of hot water on demand when installed and maintained correctly.

Conclusion

If your water heater is not heating, start with power or gas checks, thermostat settings, and signs of sediment. For lasting results, schedule professional service. Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling provides same-day water heater repair and installation across Aurora, Joliet, Naperville, and nearby communities.

Call or Schedule Now

• Call (331) 294-8731
• Book online: https://www.summersphc.com/yorkville/
• Active offer: Water Heater Flush + Plumbing Inspection $59 This Month Only. Or save $500 on tankless installation when scheduled by 11/30/25.

Get reliable hot water today with upfront pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Ready for fast, reliable hot water? Call (331) 294-8731 or schedule at https://www.summersphc.com/yorkville/. Ask for the $59 water heater inspection or $500 off tankless installation before 11/30/25.

About Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling

Since 1969, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling has helped Kendall County homeowners with reliable, affordable plumbing. Our drug tested, background checked, licensed technicians arrive in fully stocked trucks, provide upfront pricing, and back every job with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We offer 24/7 emergency service, same-day availability, and easy financing. From tank and tankless water heaters to whole-home plumbing, we do it right the first time with industry-leading warranties and local expertise.