Monday, September 24, 2018

3 Reasons why you’re Always Running out of Hot Water

Your water heater probably doesn't cross your mind very often, at least not until the water runs cold in the middle of your nice hot shower. Do you find that you're running out of hot water more quickly than you used to? If so, here are some possible causes.

Simple overuse of hot water.


There is a limit to how much hot water your water heater can supply at a time. If you are running multiple appliances while you take a shower, or if multiple people shower at the same time, you will run out of hot water fairly quickly.

Your water heater isn’t the right size for your home.


If several people live in your household, it's possible that your water heater is too small for your needs. This is especially likely if you have a tankless on-demand water heater. Some electric tankless water heaters are only adequate for households of one or two people. Gas-powered models often handle larger households better. If you're considering a tankless water heater, ask your plumber to recommend the best one for your home.

There is sediment buildup in the hot water tank.


In areas with hard water, mineral deposits build up in your water heater tank. The sediment accumulates in the tank if it's not cleaned out on a regular basis. After several years, the buildup can even occupy several gallons, leaving less space for hot water. If you hear cracking or popping sounds coming from your water heater tank, it's an indication of sediment buildup. Hard water doesn't only affect your water heater. The mineral deposits left by hard water can damage your pipes. If your home has hard water, consider installing a water softener to address the issue.        
 
The Polite Plumber is here to help if you find yourself running out of hot water. Contact us today to learn more about our services.