The most common problem we see with hot water heaters is not enough hot water. After all, the whole point of a hot water heater is to produce hot water, so if you find you are constantly running out, there is a problem. Today, the expert plumbers at Indy Renovation are discussing the three most common reasons your hot water heater isn’t producing enough hot water for your household.
1. Sediment Buildup
Over time, sediment buildup occurs in the bottom of your hot water heater tank. This happens during the heating process, as naturally-occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium form into sediment particles that settle to the bottom of the tank. If left unaddressed, the buildup can grow to the point that it can significantly reduce the amount of heat that is transferred between the gas burner and the water inside the tank. To avoid this problem, you need to have your water heater tank flushed yearly by a professional.
2. Undersized Water Tank
Another common reason you might be constantly running out of hot water is that your water heater simply cannot keep up with the demand. If you have a growing family, frequent guests, or several appliances running simultaneously, your water heater might not be able to cope with your high hot water demand. To combat this problem, you can either add a smaller unit to help out your water heater, install a larger tank, or go tankless. Speak with a professional to learn how to properly size your water heater.
3. Temperature Set Too Low
Finally, and perhaps the easiest problem to fix, is that the temperature on your unit is set too low. The temperature of incoming water varies by season and external temperature, so if your hot water is not as hot as it used to be, you should be able to increase the temperature on the thermostat to your liking. However, do not set it too high, as it will become dangerous for young children in the home. If you aren’t sure how to adjust your thermostat, feel free to contact a professional.
For all of your water heater installation and maintenance needs, contact the experts at Indy Renovation at (317) 375-4464. With 50-plus years in business, we understand all facets of plumbing in Indianapolis.