Why Do I Run Out Of Hot Water So Quickly
With hot water solutions, a comfy bath or household chores are complete. Picture this: you're standing in the shower waiting to freshen up in warm water, and suddenly, your water heater surprises you with cold water.
This can also happen when you're washing dishes; when you expect hot water, it can turn out too cold for unknown reasons. However, with a water heater working flawlessly, you should have enough hot water for everyone in the house.
Let's explore the possible reasons behind your running out of hot water quickly and some water heater troubleshooting.
- Multiple Appliances Demanding Hot Water At The Same Time
If multiple appliances in your home are vying for hot water simultaneously, like the dishwasher and washing machine, while you're showering, it can result in a hot water shortage. This can also occur when too many family members take extended showers or use excessive hot water from the tank. To address this, consider turning off the appliances during showers or upgrading to a larger water heater if your family size has increased.
- Wrong Temperature Setting on the Water Heater
Typically, a water heater should be between 120 and 140 degrees. If you run out of hot water, reset your water heater thermostat to fix the issue. If you don't see any improvement, increase the temperature to check if your water heater is functioning at the wrong temperature. Ensure you don't raise the temperature too high, which may lead to injury. If the problem persists, call a professional plumber to check.
- The dip tube is broken.
The dip tube sends the cold water to the bottom of the tank to get heated inside the water heater. However, a broken dip tube means cold water doesn't go to the bottom and stays on top of the tank. As a result, the water can heat inadequately, and you get frigid water from the hot water pipes.
Look for any small plastic pieces in the shower head, strainers, and filter screens of water appliances. If you spot anything, this can signal that your dip tube is broken and you need a new one. So, seek help from professionals to replace your dip tube.
- Sediment Buildup Inside the Water Heater
Sediment can form from loose minerals like sand and rust in your water supply. When loose mineral deposits in our water supply build up at the bottom of the heater tank, it can lead to hot water issues. It's because sediment buildup might take up too much space in the tank, leaving less room for hot water.
Sediment also creates a barrier at the tank bottom that prevents the water from heating up properly. Consider calling a professional to drain your water heater and remove the sediment buildup.
- Faulty heating elements
For an electric water heater, there are usually two heating elements in play to maintain hot water. Typically, one heats the top, while the other operates at the bottom of the tank.
Mainly, the heating element at the bottom does most of the heating, and the top one keeps the water hot by maintaining its temperature when it reaches the top. If your bottom heating setup is damaged, you will quickly run out of hot water. Remember routine water heater maintenance to keep everything in check.
- Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater
Installing a tankless water heater is the best way to avoid all your hot water run-out issues. In the tankless vs. tank water heater battle, the tankless one is the winner as it can offer an endless supply of hot water whenever needed. Tankless water heaters are also best for using multiple appliances and showers simultaneously. These models last longer than average water heaters, saving you money in the long run.
Get Water Heater Troubleshooting & Installation from Rock Solid Plumbing
Rock Solid Plumbing provides hot water solutions and water heater maintenance services in Jacksonville, FL. If you're searching for top-notch quality and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, we can be your ideal companion for all your plumbing needs.
We can handle all your requirements, from routine maintenance to replacing tanks to fixing broken equipment. Contact Rock Solid Plumbing today to get free, no-obligation estimates.