Causes Of Water Heaters Not Heating The Same
Many homeowners have experience with a water heater not working and the inconvenience of not having hot water. Sometimes it is an issue that can be repaired, but some homeowners find out that they need to get a new appliance. There are also instances where a water heater continues to perform but at a noticeably diminished difference. This can be puzzling for homeowners, especially if this phenomenon occurs suddenly. The following points represent some of the reasons that a water heater might start producing lukewarm rather than hot water.
Plumbing Upgrades
If you are making plumbing upgrades, your new system might require more water, and assuming the appliances require hot water, using them could deplete your water tank. This means that your water might be lukewarm until the tank can replenish and rewarm. An example would be buying a new dishwasher when, in the past, you did not have one in your home. Other things such as installing a new showerhead could also result in more hot water consumption.
Sediment in Tank
Water heater tank flushing is something that some homeowners forget to do or underestimate its importance. If water heaters do not get routinely flushed, sediment from minerals in the water will settle in the tank. The sediment will eventually negatively impact water heater performance. It is also possible for a water heater's lifespan to end prematurely due to sediment build-up. A plumber can perform a water heater flush as part of routine plumbing system maintenance or as an ad hoc service.
Changes in Demand
Household changes can cause a difference in how and when hot water is used. If you have visitors or if someone moves into your home, you might notice changes in how your water heats. Activities such as showering involve using a lot of water. If multiple individuals shower one behind the other with short pauses between each shower, you are likely going to run out of water faster than the tank can refill and rewarm. If other activities requiring hot water are going on at the same time, your water heater might not be able to keep up with the demands.
Failed Components
Electric and gas water heaters have critical parts that are responsible for heating the water. When the parts fail, the appliances cannot function normally. A water heater inspection can determine if failing parts are the cause of changes in performance. The heating element in electric water heaters could be the cause of changes in the heating, and the pilot tube in gas water heaters could be faulty and negatively impact performance.
For more information about water heaters, contact a local plumber.
Share