Are you stressed that your water heater is not getting hot enough and sick of lukewarm showers? When you call a professional plumber with Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, you’ll love how quickly you restore your hot water supply.
Why Your Water Heater Is Not Getting Hot Enough
From faulty heating elements to a broken dip tube, several issues can prevent your hot water heater from performing well. In many cases, calling a professional for water heater repair can fix the problem. But in some cases, you may need a new water heater tank or model. When that happens, consider upgrading to a tankless water heater or another innovative model.
Thermostat Issues
Both gas and electric water heaters have a thermostat at the bottom of the tank, which sets the temperature for your water. Most homes set the thermostat between 120 and 140 degrees, and anything lower likely won’t feel warm enough. You may have bumped your thermostat or you have a faulty thermostat that needs replacement.
Broken Gas Valve
If you feel your water heater is not getting hot enough, you may have a faulty gas valve, a feature included in all gas water heaters. The valve regulates the flow of natural gas, so if it doesn’t deliver enough to your water heater, you’ll have lukewarm water.
If you don’t know whether you have an electric water heater or a gas model, your plumber can tell you. You should also never replace the gas valve yourself.
If you smell rotten eggs or feel dizzy or nauseous, you could have a gas leak. Leave your home immediately and then call your gas company once you’re a safe distance away.
Power Issues
If you have an older electrical system or faulty wiring, your water heater may cause a blown fuse. You may not know when your water heater shuts off, but a lack of hot water is a clear sign you may have power issues.
Excessive Demand
If you recently increased your hot water demand or installed a hot water heater that is too small for your home, you may experience lukewarm water. This happens because the heating elements cannot warm the incoming cold water fast enough before it leaves the water tank. Tankless units almost always avoid this issue.
Sediment Build-up
When dissolved minerals and other debris settle at the bottom of the tank, it can hurt the effectiveness of your hot water heater. At worst, you’ll experience cold water, but with only a minor problem, you’ll have only lukewarm water. A plumber can clean the water heater tank, restore the correct hot water temperature, and even help you conserve energy.
Leaking Hot Water Tank
If you’re wondering why your water heater is not getting hot enough, inspect the hot water tank for condensation or puddles. Your water tank shouldn’t leak, but corrosion and wear and tear can cause enough damage to make a hole.
Worn Out or Broken Components
Over time, your hot water heater can develop wear and tear, which leads to the following issues:
- Broken dip tube: The dip tube guides the cold water into the bottom of the tank over the two heating elements. A broken dip tube can prevent the tank water from adequately heating up.
- Clogged drain valve: Clogged drainage can increase the sediment in the hot water tank and prevent you from obtaining adequate hot water.
- Old anode rod: This rod helps prevent corrosion in your hot water tank, but you must replace it every three to five years.
- Faulty heating element: If your dip tube leads to a broken heating component, you won’t get enough hot water for your home.
What To Do When You Lack Hot Water
If you don’t have enough hot water, follow these steps:
- First, check the thermostat on your device to determine whether you set it too low.
- Next, inspect the appliance for signs of damage or puddles on the floor around it.
- Inspect your fuse box or electrical panel for a tripped breaker.
- Call for repairs or replacement.
If the plumber determines you need a new water heater, use the opportunity to buy a more efficient model that will save you money in the long term.
Helpful Resource: 8 Reasons To Consider Water Heater Replacement Now
Schedule Hot Water Services With Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Today
When your water heater is not getting hot enough, don’t delay calling Grasshopper Heating & Cooling. From regular maintenance to installing plumbing fixtures, we perform every job with excellence and for a competitive price. We take pride that our services keep you safe and comfortable.
To book an appointment, call (518) 545-3271.
