Why Is My Water Not Staying Hot?

Do your showers ever feel like you transported from your bathroom to an ice hole in the antarctica? Are you tired of your shower turning ice cold in the middle of shampooing? Do you want to have hot water all winter?

Water heater problems are normally easy to spot. If the water coming from your faucet remains cold, smells, leaks or your water heater makes noise then there’s a problem with your water heater. Wondering how to fix it? Below are the most common issues associated with hot water problems in residences and solutions for them.

Not Enough Hot Water?

Is your water not hot enough? First thing to check when having water heater issues is the temperature dial on the actual heater, adjust the temperature and then wait awhile to see if your water heats up. If it seems like you never have enough hot water in your home, an undersized water heater is most likely your problem. If you have recently added high-flow shower faucets or a new bathroom this could be the cause for your hot water shortage. You will need a larger water heater to support the hot water demand in your home. A tankless water heater is a good option for you because they are instantaneous and you will not run out of hot water.

Another thing to check for is leaks, if your water heater is leaking this could be the cause of your problem. If it is a leak be sure to call a plumber to come out and fix this issue right away. Not a leak and your tank is plenty big? Try flushing the tank to make sure built-up mineral deposits are not the cause of the heat deficiency.

The dip tube is also another possibility for your cold water if none of the problems listed above are causing your issue. The tube that directs cold water to the bottom of your water heater tank may be broken or cracked. If this tube is compromised, the cold water pours into the top of the tank and mixes with the hot water on its way out into your pipes. If this is the issue, call a plumbing pro to come replace your dip tube, if your water heater is showing other signs of wear, consider replacing it.

**Note: If the temperatures drop significantly outside this could be the source of cold water. The water heater is forced to work harder in cooler temperatures losing more energy and heat. To aid with this problem turn up the temperature dial on the water heater.

When it comes to plumbing problems, solutions can be easier said than done. Don’t hesitate to call a plumber to avoid an irreversible mistake and end up with cold water all winter. If you have any questions contact Superior at (801) 438-4798, we are happy to help with your water heater issues.