Why Your Hot Water Runs Out and How to Prevent It

Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we’ve seen our fair share of water heater disasters. In this blog post, we walk you through the common reasons why your hot water might be running out faster than usual.

• Your Hot Water System Just Isn’t Big Enough

One of the common culprits for hot water running out faster than usual is an undersized hot water system. A small hot water system can’t keep up with high demand. Consider upgrading if your household size or hot water needs have outgrown your current system.

• Wrong Water Heater Temperature Setting

Sometimes, it’s not about size but about settings. Check your water heater’s temperature dial. If it’s turned down low, you might be playing it safe in terms of energy bills but sacrificing comfort. Make sure you check your settings and ensure they match your desired water temperature. Remember, higher temperatures mean faster depletion.

• Too Much Hot Water Demand At Once

Running multiple hot water sources at once can overwhelm your hot water system. Coordinate showers and dishwashing to avoid depleting your hot water reserves.

• Broken Dip Tube

This crucial component delivers cold water to the bottom of the tank for heating. If it breaks, it will cause hot water to rise and mix with cold water, leading to a faster cool-down. Call a nearby plumber for a replacement. Regular water heater maintenance will help you identify minor issues, like a broken dip tube, early enough to prevent more costly repairs.

• Sediment Build-Up In Your Water Heater

Over time, minerals accumulate in the tank, reducing its heating efficiency and capacity. You’ll know there’s sediment buildup inside your water heater if you notice strange noises, fluctuating temperatures, and a higher than usual energy bill. The good news is that this problem is easy to fix. You’ll just need to flush out your water heater tank regularly to remove the sediment and keep your hot water flowing. If you don’t have an idea how to go about the process, let a professional plumbing service help you out.

• Broken Heating Element

A faulty heating element won’t generate enough heat. If your water never gets truly hot, it’s likely time for heating element replacement. Call a nearby plumber to inspect your heating element and give you recommendations.

• Old Water Heater

Even the best water heaters reach a point where they’ve simply given all they’ve got. If yours is approaching its lifespan (usually around 10-15 years), consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. Talk to a plumber about modern, efficient options. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we can walk you through the available options and help you choose the right hot water system for your home or business.

Need A Hand? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today

Is your water heater acting up and you need professional water heater repair? Is it time to upgrade your current hot water system? Are you looking to schedule regular water heater maintenance? If so, the experienced plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing are here to help. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is your local plumbing company that you can rely on for all of your water heater needs. From water heater installation to water heater repair and routine tune-ups, we’ve got you covered. Our plumbers have the tools and know-how to get your hot water flowing again.