No hot water? Quick checks before you call

Electric water heater

• Check the breaker. If it tripped more than once, stop and call a plumber.
• Some units have a reset button behind a panel; only press it if the manufacturer's label says so.

Gas water heater

• Check that the gas supply valve is on.
• Look through the viewing window for the pilot light. Relight only by following the label on the unit.
• If you smell gas, leave and call your gas utility.

Call a plumber when

• The tank is leaking.
• The pilot won't stay lit.
• The breaker keeps tripping.
• Water is rusty or smells bad.