Picture this: you step into the shower, ready to relax after a long day, and before you’ve even had a chance to rinse the shampoo out of your hair, the hot water’s gone. Frustrating, right? If your hot water seems to be disappearing faster than usual, it’s not just bad luck—there’s likely an underlying issue. Let’s dive into the most common reasons why you’re running out of hot water and what you can do about it.
1. Your Water Heater Is Too Small
If you’ve recently upgraded to a bigger household or started using more hot water (think soaking tubs, multiple showers, or a new dishwasher), your water heater might not be keeping up. Most traditional tank water heaters hold anywhere from 30 to 80 gallons of water. If your tank is on the smaller side and you’re using hot water simultaneously in multiple places, it’s no surprise you’re running out quickly.
Solution: Consider upgrading to a larger water heater or a tankless model, which provides hot water on demand and never runs out.
2. Sediment Buildup in the Tank
Over time, minerals in your water can settle at the bottom of your water heater tank. This sediment acts as insulation, making it harder for the heating element to do its job effectively. The result? Less hot water for your household.
Solution: Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment and keep it running efficiently. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, call a professional plumber like Rub-A-Dub to help.
3. A Faulty Thermostat
Just like your home’s HVAC system, your water heater has a thermostat that regulates temperature. If the thermostat is malfunctioning or set too low, you might not be getting enough hot water.
Solution: Check your water heater’s thermostat. Most experts recommend setting it to 120°F for optimal performance. If adjusting it doesn’t solve the problem, the thermostat may need to be replaced.
4. Aging Water Heater
Water heaters don’t last forever. If yours is more than 8-12 years old, it may simply be nearing the end of its lifespan. Over time, the efficiency of the heating elements decreases, leading to less and less hot water.
Solution: If your water heater is on its last legs, it’s time to invest in a new one. A professional plumber can help you choose the best option for your home’s needs.
5. Leaking Water Heater
A leak in your water heater tank or its connections can also lead to a rapid loss of hot water. Even a small leak can cause your hot water supply to dwindle faster than usual.
Solution: Inspect your water heater for visible leaks. If you find one, turn off the water supply and call a plumber immediately. Leaks can cause significant water damage if not addressed promptly.
6. Increased Hot Water Demand
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your water heater at all. If you’ve had guests staying with you or your family’s hot water habits have changed, your water heater may not be able to keep up with the extra demand.
Solution: Adjust your schedule to stagger usage, or consider upgrading to a larger tank or tankless system for more consistent hot water.
Stop Running Out of Hot Water – Contact Rub-A-Dub Plumbing for All Your Water Heater Needs in Tyler, TX and the Surrounding Areas
Running out of hot water is a common problem, but it’s one you don’t have to live with. Whether it’s a simple fix like adjusting your thermostat or a bigger project like replacing your water heater, addressing the issue sooner rather than later can save you a lot of frustration (and cold showers).
If you’re in need of professional help, our team at Rub-A-Dub Plumbing is here to assist. From water heater repairs to full replacements, we handle it all. Give us a call today and say goodbye to running out of hot water—for good!