One of the more startling things that can happen in the course of an otherwise ordinary day is for the deliciously warm water of a shower to suddenly turn cold. It’s especially shocking if your water tank usually delivers enough hot water to last at least as long as a 15-minute shower. What could possibly make the hot water run out so quickly? Here are some reasons.
Sediment Is Building Up in the Tank
One reason that maintaining your water heater is important is to prevent sediment buildup. Sediment in your hot water tank can build up to the point where the appliance has to really struggle to provide hot water when you need or want it. Not only this, but a hot water tank full of sediment can also run up your energy bill and shorten the tank’s lifespan. The solution is to call in a pro to flush the tank and make sure everything else is in good order.
Heating Element Is Broken
Another reason for the hot water running out is that the heating element is broken. Modern water heaters usually have two of these elements. Made of metal alloys with a protective covering, there’s one element at the top and one at the bottom. The bottom element does most of the work of heating your water, and its malfunctioning is most likely to lead to your hot water running out. The solution is to have this element repaired or (more likely) replaced by a professional.
Hot Water Tank Can’t Handle the Demand
You may find that the hot water runs out after you’ve had kids, friends, or relatives coming to live with you or even a lot of people staying with you over a long weekend. There may be nothing at all wrong with your hot water tank, but it just can’t meet the demand. If the increased use in your household is permanent, you might want to simply buy a larger tank. If the larger number of people in your home is temporary, you may want to work out a schedule where the hot water use is staggered.
Water Heater Thermostat Is Malfunctioning
Your hot water tank comes with its own thermostat, and if this thermostat isn’t working the way it should, it can cause your hot water to run out prematurely. You might want to remedy this problem by resetting the thermostat. If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call in a professional.
Contact Us to Learn More
There are many reasons why your hot water heater is just not reliably bringing you hot water when you need it. To find out the reasons why and to have the problem with your hot water tank fixed, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our professional plumbers at Carlson Plumbing of Fountain Valley, CA.
