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If a faucet has no hot water, the problem is usually a faulty cartridge, clogged aerator, or a partially closed shutoff valve.

In This Article:
Quick Answer
Start Here: One Faucet or More?
Faucet No Hot Water Diagnostic Table
Common Causes
Cartridge Problems
Aerator Blockage
How to Fix It
When to Call a Pro
Next Steps & Related Guides
FAQs

If only one sink has no hot water, the issue is almost always inside the faucet or its immediate plumbing connections—not the water heater.

Quick Answer

No hot water in a faucet is usually caused by a worn cartridge, clogged aerator, or a shutoff valve that isn’t fully open.

Start Here: One Faucet or More?

  • Only one faucet affected: Local issue
  • Multiple fixtures affected: See No Hot Water

Faucet No Hot Water Diagnostic Table

What you noticeLikely causeWhat to check
No hot water at faucetFaulty cartridgeReplace cartridge
Low hot water flowClogged aeratorClean aerator
Problem started recentlyDebris blockageFlush lines

Common Causes

Worn faucet cartridge

The cartridge controls water flow and temperature. When it fails, hot water may be blocked.

Clogged aerator

Mineral buildup can block the small screen at the end of the faucet.

Shutoff valve not fully open

The hot water valve under the sink may be partially closed.

Debris in plumbing lines

Particles can clog the faucet after plumbing work or sediment movement.

Cartridge Problems

Replacing the cartridge is often the most effective fix for a faucet with no hot water.

Aerator Blockage

Remove the aerator and rinse it clean to restore flow.

How to Fix It

  • Replace the faucet cartridge
  • Clean or replace the aerator
  • Open shutoff valves fully
  • Flush debris from lines

When to Call a Pro

  • Problem persists after basic fixes
  • Valve or plumbing access is limited

FAQs

Why does my faucet have no hot water?

This is usually caused by a faulty cartridge or clogged aerator.

Can a faucet block hot water?

Yes. Internal components can fail or become clogged.

How do I fix a faucet with no hot water?

Start by cleaning the aerator and replacing the cartridge if needed.

NEXT SEE

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About Don Vandervort
Don Vandervort has developed his expertise for more than 30 years as a remodeler and builder, Building Editor for Sunset Books, Senior Editor at Home Magazine, author of more than 30 home improvement books, and writer of countless magazine articles. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTV’s “The Fix,” served as MSN’s home expert for several years, and is featured as Yelp's home improvement expert. Don founded HomeTips in 1996. Read more about Don Vandervort