Shower Story

A couple weeks ago there were some people working at the end of our street. They hit a gas line and they had to shut off the gas for our entire neighborhood. Once the line was repaired, Consumer’s Energy went from house to house to relight pilot lights and bleed any air out of the lines.

Ever since they were down at the water heater, Sam complained her showers were not getting as warm as she wanted. I just figured we had run the washer or dishwasher and used up the hot water. My showers seemed to be a tad cooler, but nothing too noticeable to me.

Thursday night, I took a lukewarm shower and mentioned it to Sam. We were still getting hot water in the kitchen, so I assumed it was this shower handle which limits how hot the water can get. It’s an adjustment cog inside the handle.

Friday morning, Sam said the shower was even cooler. We went out that day and I had showered the night before, so I didn’t shower until I had to get ready for work. By that time the water was ice cold!

I went downstairs and the water heater status indicator light was non-existent. According to the chart on it, that meant the pilot light was out. I didn’t have a whole lot of time, but I attempted to light it a few times to no avail.

I called my father-in-law and he said if the ignition switch got dust in it, it would quit working. I asked how much that would be for us to fix it. He told me it was something a licensed professional had to do because of the gas line.

We called Consumer’s Energy because we have the appliance protection thing on our water heater and furnace. After an hour on the phone, three reps, and countless “3 minute holds” they finally were able to get someone to come out this afternoon.

I had hoped it would be first thing this morning, but it had to be an afternoon appointment. When the guy arrived, he walked downstairs and I told him what I did and what was going on. He proceeded to do the exact same thing that I had done the day before and “whoooosh” the pilot light lit.

I felt like a complete idiot! I mean, the guy was at the house for like 3 minutes!!! His work took…..25 seconds! I’m sure that was the easiest money he made all month!

On the bright side, I will be taking a nice hot shower tonight!