Is your home having hot water issues? There are many causes for a hot water shortage – from settings to size to other more significant issues. By figuring out when and how you’re running out of hot water, you may be able to better pinpoint the problem at hand.
Typical Hot Water Issues
Your Water Runs Hot and Cold
If your water temperature seems to have a mind of its own, the issue may be caused by a build-up of sediment in your water heater. Homes that are prone to sediment build-up tend to be those with older pipes or hard water. This causes sediment to build up and allows for less space for water in your tank. It can also begin to absorb the heat itself, leading to water running hot and cold.
Your Water Never Gets Hot
This issue may be caused by your water heater’s dip tube. A dip tube is a device that pushes cold water to the bottom of the tank. If it is faulty or broken, replacement cold water gets added to the hot water, causing your showers to become lukewarm.
You Aren’t Getting Any Hot Water
Your water heater has a thermostat on it that manages how hot your water gets. Like your home’s central heat thermostat, you need to set the temperature to your desired level. If you aren’t getting any hot water, it could mean that your thermostat is set too low or, potentially, that it is malfunctioning.
Your Hot Water Runs Out Quickly
A typical water heater has two heating elements (at the bottom and top of its tank). The bottom element’s job is to ensure the water stays heated at a constant temperature. However, if it stops working, the water in the tank isn’t being heated thoroughly, leaving the top element to heat only a portion of the water. This causes you to run out of hot water more quickly.
The Hot Water is Affected by High Usage
Many families are in constant competition to grab the bathroom before anyone else. However, sometimes, those last in line for the morning shower run the risk of dealing with cold water. Alternatively, if you are showering and someone starts the dishwasher or washing machine, you may have your warm shower diverted to other appliances. The likely cause of this common issue is simply a hot water tank that is too small for the jobs you are asking it to do.
If you suffer from any of these typical water heater issues, don’t hesitate to call Rite Tech right away. We can come to assess your water heater and help you fix it, so you’ll never suffer through another cold shower again.
