No Hot Water? Common Plumbing Fixes for Singapore Bathrooms!
There’s nothing worse than jumping into the shower expecting warm water — only to be hit with a blast of cold. In Singapore homes, hot water issues are more common than you’d think, especially with older water heaters or fluctuating HDB pressure.
Here’s a breakdown of what could be causing the problem and how to fix it — or when it’s time to call in a licensed plumber or technician.
Instant Heaters: Is the Water Flow Too Low?
Instant heaters (common in smaller bathrooms) rely on steady water pressure. If the flow is too low, the heater may not activate.
What you can do:
- Fully open the shower tap
- Clean or replace clogged shower heads
- Avoid using multiple taps at once if pressure is low
For Storage Heaters: Wait Time or Faulty Thermostat
Storage water heaters take time to heat up — around 10 to 20 minutes depending on the model. If it’s still cold after that, the thermostat or heating element could be faulty.
Try this:
- Let it heat up, then test again
- If still cold: turn off power, let it cool, and call a technician
Airlocks or Blockages in the Pipes
Sometimes, trapped air can prevent hot water from flowing through, especially in homes with recent plumbing works.
Signs of an airlock or blockage:
- No hot water but cold works fine
- Gurgling or sputtering sounds from the tap
- Hot water works in some taps but not others
Fix:
This may need a plumber to bleed the air or check for pipe clogs.
When to Call a Pro
If you’ve checked the basics and there’s still no hot water, it’s time to bring in the experts — especially for these situations:
- Water heater is over 5–7 years old
- Leaking from the heater or pipes
- Burning smell or tripped circuit breaker
- Inconsistent hot water even after resets
Tip: Always use a licensed PUB-approved plumber or certified water heater technician in Singapore.
Final Thoughts: Stay Warm, Stay Safe
Hot water is a daily essential, and when it’s suddenly gone, it’s more than just inconvenient. Luckily, many common issues can be solved quickly — as long as you know what to look for.
By checking the basics and acting fast, you can avoid long cold showers and expensive repairs. And when in doubt? Don’t DIY — call a trusted local pro.