If your water heater is not providing the water hot enough, or is taking too long to heat up, there are a number of possible cause. Several of these items can be checked before calling a plumber for service.
1. Is the Power Supply On? If you have an electric water heater check that the circuit breaker has tripped. If it has tripped, rest the circuit and check the operation of the water heater. If it trips a second time do not reset it again, this is a sign of an electrical problem. Have the electrical system inspected by a licensed professional. If you have a gas water heater, check the other gas appliances in the home, such as your gas range, to determine if the gas supply is working.
2. Is the Dip Tube Broken?
Cold water enters the water heater through the dip tube where it is forced to the bottom of the tank for quick heating. When the tube is broken the water remains at the top of the tank, where the hot water outlet is, causing it to return cold water with the heated water. The dip tube is usually accessible by loosening a nut at the top of the water heater and pulling the dip tub out.
3. Has Sediment Built Up at the Bottom of the Tank?
Over time, minerals in the water can build up at the bottom of the water heater tank where the burner is located. This causes a gradual reduction in heating efficiency that will make the water heater work harder and eventually resulting in less hot water. Flushing the tank will remove the sediment build up.
4. The Heating System Is Malfunctioning
Most water heater problems occur with the following systems:
- Thermal switch
- Thermostat
- Heating element
A licensed plumber should inspect the water heater and repair the pasts as needed. In some cases parts can be replaced.
5. The Water Heater Is Too Far From Where It’s Needed
If you have to run the water heater for a long time for the water to heat up, the problem could be that the tank is located too far away from where it’s needed. In the cold months in particular, pipes will cool the hot water before it reaches the faucet where it’s needed. Insulating the pipes can help reduce heat loss.
6. The Water Heater Tank Is Undersized
If you have recently noticed that your water heater suddenly seems to provide less hot water? Or, that it runs out suddenly? It could be that your water heater tank is too small to keep up with demand. Installing a larger tank or a tankless water heater can ensure that you have all the water your household needs. Your plumber can help you determine the best size tank for your household’s needs.
Have questions about your hot water heater? Call Superior Plumbing & Heating, we can help.