Why is my water heater not producing hot water anymore?
What’s likely going on
For a gas water heater, a pilot light that's gone out is the most common cause. For an electric one, a failed heating element or a tripped breaker is more likely. Sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank over years can also quietly reduce how much hot water it can hold.
Is this a DIY job or worth calling someone?
Relighting a gas pilot light is something many people do themselves following the label on the tank — but if you smell gas at any point, stop immediately: don't relight anything, don't flip any switches, leave the area, and call your gas utility's emergency line or 911 from outside before doing anything else. That's not a step to troubleshoot further yourself. An electric element or thermostat issue isn't a safe DIY repair either; that's a real job for a licensed pro.
Not sure, or ready to have someone take care of it?