Your hot water running out too quickly? Top 6 reasons why

Hot water is something that many households rely on, particularly while bathing and cleaning. However, it is frequently not apparent how much it is required until you have a relaxing shower and the hot water abruptly runs out. Contact your local New Westminster, Coquitlam or Burnaby plumber to learn more about typical water heater issues and solutions.

Solving the Problem of Quickly Running Out of Hot Water

Size of the Water Heater Tank

It is essential to have the proper size water heater for the household. The water heater heats the tank by filling it with cold water and heating it to the desired temperature. Less hot water will come from a water heater that is too small for the residence. You may not need to replace the tank if this is an infrequent occurrence. However, suppose you discover that this is a frequent occurrence. In that case, it is critical to consult with a plumber about the many possibilities for larger tank sizes that will fit adequately within the home.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters should avoid the problem of running out of hot water too soon. In actuality, it is very dependent on the sort of water heater in the house and how much stress it is subjected to. Electric tankless water heaters may not be able to provide the single energy increase necessary to heat many sources simultaneously. However, it is still required to determine the ideal times to run hot water. If you're thinking about installing a tankless water heater in the house, talk to a plumber about the best models for the allotted space and how much hot water you use.

Sediment Buildup within the Water Heater Tank

The water in a typical water heater can only take up as much room as the tank allows. Minerals will collect in the tank in areas prone to hard water. If the tank is not cleaned regularly, silt accumulates and makes less room f
or water. Over time, the accumulation might consume several gallons of important space, leaving the household chilled. At the absolute least, one should think about hiring a plumber to clean any dirt and silt from the water heater and plumbing system. Installing a water softener in your house can also help avoid buildup.

Equipment that is Worn or Broken

Failure to schedule regular maintenance might result in more than simply hard water deposits in your water heater. It may also result in damaged components within the water heater. For example, if the water heater's dip tube is damaged, you may notice a change in water temperature. The dip tube directs incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank and straight to the heating element, allowing the water to heat up faster. A damaged dip tube does not guide the water anywhere; instead, it mixes hot and cold water. It is critical to schedule maintenance services at least once a year to verify that everything within the water heater is functioning correctly.

Piping Issues

You may run out of hot water due to plumbing issues such as broken or defective pipes. One example is when hot and cold water merge, resulting in just chilly water coming from the faucet. This may lead you to believe that there is no hot water when, in fact, there is.

Inefficient Water Heater Use

There is no such thing as a perfect water heater that can meet all of your requirements. If you want to be certain that you will have access to hot water, you must also limit your usage of hot water to an acceptable level. While there are several reasons to save water, many of them are also connected to your comfort. Wait until there is a full load before washing clothing or running the dishwasher. Creating a timetable to utilize water-based appliances when there is no cooking or bathing is another approach to save hot water. With a bit of forethought, you can save yourself a lot of trouble.

Contact New West Plumbing Today

Your hot water heater works extremely hard to keep you and your family warm when you need it most. When the hot water runs out faster than anticipated, it is vital to assess the situation as soon as possible. Doing so ensures that there are not more serious problems going on. Plumbing maintenance is always best done by experts, as they have the skills and knowledge to get the job done the first time correctly. If you need help inspecting your water heater in the Burnaby, Coquitlam, and New Westminster area, contact us at New West Plumbing today!  ​