Common Reasons a Water Heater Keeps Shutting Off in Painesville, OH

If you’re asking yourself: “Why does my water heater keep turning off?” it could be a symptom of a few different issues. You need professional plumbing support to diagnose and repair the unit. Luckily, Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. offers exceptional water heater service and repair. 

As one of the most trusted plumbers in Painesville, Ohio, our expert team is well-versed in the many possible causes of water heater issues in this lakeside community. 



Gas Water Heater Issues: What Are the Common Culprits? 

To answer the question, “Why does my water heater keep turning off?” You’ll need to investigate either gas or electrical issues, depending on what your system uses.

The most common issues in gas water heaters include the following. 

Water Heater Pilot Light Issues 

A few things can go wrong with the pilot light. First, the pilot tube may become clogged, preventing gas from reaching the light. This stops combustion and shuts off the system.

The pilot light will also shut off if there is inadequate airflow or any indication of a gas leak. These built-in safety measures protect you from leaks or overheating events. 

Gas Valve Malfunctions 

Often, water heater failure is due to a faulty main control valve. This valve regulates gas and water pressure. Wear and tear can cause issues with this component. 

A professional plumber will investigate whether the valve is functioning correctly and repair any worn-out components to restore the gas flow. 

Thermocouple Failure 

The thermocouple detects whether the pilot light is lit. If it is dirty or damaged, it can’t reliably detect heat from the light and will shut the system down. 

Electric Water Heaters Face Different Challenges in Painesville, OH 

If you’ve been searching online for: “Why does my water heater keep turning off?” you’ve come to the right place. The most common electric water heater problems in Painesville, OH, are as follows. 

A Faulty Thermostat 

A thermostat regulates the temperature in your system based on your settings. Sometimes, these settings need to be recalibrated to restore warm water. However, if the thermostat malfunctions, it will not turn the heating elements on, regardless of the settings. 

A certified plumber needs to repair or replace the thermostat in this instance. 

Sediment Buildup in Tank 

If sediment builds up in the tank, your water heater may overheat. Overheating triggers an automatic shutoff switch to prevent dangerous situations. 

Consistent maintenance should include an annual inspection and draining of the tank. This prevents sediment buildup and allows your plumber to address subtle signs of wear and tear. You can attend to minor repairs before they escalate into a total loss of hot water. 

Wiring Issues 

Electric water heaters depend on reliable connections to your home’s power supply. The unit will shut down if these central wires come loose or corrode. 

Do not attempt to fix wiring issues yourself. These repairs are dangerous and should fall to a professional. Our expert team will diagnose and repair wiring issues safely and efficiently, protecting you and your home. 

Faulty Heating Elements 

The heating elements responsible for warming your water may burn out over time. If this happens, the system will not emit hot water. 

This repair can be expensive, so some homeowners replace older units when the heating element fails. If this is the cause of your shutdown, it might be time to choose a new water heater that offers better energy efficiency. 

Tripped Circuit Breaker 

Sometimes, the answer is as simple as flipping a switch. When you experience sudden power surges or outages, your circuit breaker may trip and cut off power to your unit. This is safe and easy to investigate as a homeowner. 

If switching the power back on at the breaker doesn’t work, the problem lies elsewhere. You should contact professionals for assistance immediately. 

Trust Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. for Water Heater Service in Painesville, OH 

After a springtime dip in Lake Erie or a breezy day out on the boat, you need a functional water heater to help you warm up. If yours keeps shutting off, call Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. Our expert team provides repairs and replacements to keep your system running efficiently.  



We also service tankless water heaters in Painesville, OH. Our team will advise you on proper maintenance despite the many tankless water heater myths.  

Get in touch for assistance with any water heater issue, no matter how small it seems. The sooner you seek professional repair, the sooner you can stop wondering: "Why does my water heater keep turning off?" Contact us today to restore warmth and comfort to your daily routine.