No Hot Water After 2 Hours
If your water heater fails and gas is detected, shut off gas and call immediately—pilot issues alone may wait but never ignore a smell.
A running water heater losing heat over two hours likely indicates a malfunction—common in Boston’s older units with aging components. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, sediment buildup may be smothering the flame, or the thermocouple could be failing. These issues are usually repairable, but only if addressed before complete failure.
A sulfur or rotten egg smell in hot water can mean bacterial growth in the tank, while a strong gas odor near the heater signals a dangerous leak. In this case, shut off the gas valve immediately, open windows, and call a licensed plumber—do not operate electrical switches or light matches. Gas leaks can lead to fire or explosion even from a tiny spark.
Storage tank systems over 10 years old are especially prone to sudden failure in Boston’s cold winters, as thermal stress and corrosion accelerate. A sudden loss of hot water without warning often precedes total breakdown, so scheduling an inspection before winter hits can prevent disruption. Plumbers see many calls where DIY attempts to relight the pilot delayed needed part replacements.
