No Hot Water in Your Richmond Hill Home? Check These 5 Things

GTA Plumber Match · Updated October 2026

No hot water is one of the most common calls from Richmond Hill homes. Before booking a plumber, a few checks can save you a visit, or at least help you explain the problem.

Water heater tank with a blank sticker on the side — Look for a rental sticker on the tank before booking anyone.

1. Is it a rental?

Lots of homes in Richmond Hill, especially older ones around Mill Pond and Richvale, still rent their tank. Look for a sticker on the side. If it's a rental, call the rental company. They usually have to do the repair.

Gas water heater control knob and pilot viewing window — Gas control knob and pilot window on a typical tank-style gas water heater.

2. Gas tank: is the pilot out?

Look through the small window near the bottom. No flame means the pilot is out. The relighting steps are on the label. If you smell gas, don't relight it: leave the house and call Enbridge's emergency line.

3. Electric tank: check the breaker

A tripped breaker is the easy fix. If it trips again, the element or thermostat is likely bad.

Water pooling on the floor around the base of a water heater — Water spreading from the bottom of the tank usually means it has to be replaced.

4. Look for water under the tank

A tank leaking from the bottom is usually done. Turn off the cold water valve on top and the gas or power, and get a replacement price.

5. Is the tank too small?

Bigger homes in Jefferson, Westbrook and Bayview Hill often have three or four bathrooms running on a 40 or 50 gallon tank. If you run out mid-shower, ask about a larger tank or tankless.

If you own your heater and need it fixed, text us a photo of the label and your postal code (L4B, L4C, L4E or L4S). We'll match you with a licensed plumber. The plumber gives you an upfront flat price before any work starts.