Turning on the hot water tap in your home can be frustrating when it takes too long to heat up. This is an all-too-common problem for many homeowners, but there are some steps you can take to get your hot water back on track and ensure it’s running efficiently.
This article will explore what causes slow heating water and discuss tips for getting it back up to speed so you can enjoy hot showers without delay.
How Do Water Heaters Work?
Water heaters use electricity or gas to heat water, usually in an insulated tank. As the water is heated, it circulates the tank and any hot water that you use is replaced with cold water from your main supply.
The thermostat then regulates how hot the water should be and will turn off when it reaches the desired temperature. For example, if the thermostat is set to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, then the water heater will turn off when it reaches that temperature.
Reasons Why Your Water Isn’t Getting Hotter
There are several reasons why your hot water might not be heating up as quickly as it should. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Low flow rate — If your home’s hot water flow rate is low, it will take longer for the tap temperature to increase. This can be caused by a variety of issues such as clogged pipes or failing valves.
- Insufficient energy source — Your water heater needs to have enough energy to heat the supply coming in and keep it warm once it’s heated up. If there isn’t enough energy available, then the water won’t get hot enough or stay that way for very long.
- Old Water Heater — If your water heater is getting on in years, it may not be able to keep up with the demand for hot water anymore. This is especially true if it hasn’t been serviced recently and its parts are worn out.
- Low Setting on Thermostat — If your water heater’s thermostat is set too low, it won’t be able to generate enough heat to keep up with demand. You may need to adjust your thermostat setting higher so that
Tips for Speeding Up Your Hot Water Heater
If you want your hot water back on track, here are a few tips that can help:
- Check your pipes and valves — Make sure there aren’t any blockages or clogs in the pipes leading to your water heater, as this could slow down the flow of hot water. You should also check that all valves are functioning correctly, so they don’t restrict the flow of water.
- Replace an old water heater — If your old water heater isn’t up to the task anymore, it may be time to replace it. You could get a more energy-efficient model that can keep up with your hot water needs.
- Increase the temperature setting — If you find that your hot water isn’t getting as hot as you’d like it to, try raising the temperature on your thermostat. Just make sure not to set it too high or you could risk scalding yourself.
When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?
If your hot water isn’t getting any warmer even after you follow the tips above, it could be time to replace your water heater. Generally speaking, electric and gas-powered heaters should last 10-15 years, while tankless heaters can last up to 20 years.
Replacing an old water heater is a big job and not something that should be undertaken lightly. If you’re having trouble with your water heater or think it may need replacing, we recommend talking to a professional plumber who can help assess the situation and advise on what to do next.
When to Call in a Professional?
If you’ve followed the tips in this article but still can’t get your water heater running efficiently, it’s time to call in a professional. A qualified plumber can troubleshoot and diagnose any issues, as well as advise on what kind of repair or replacement may be necessary.
They’ll also know how to properly install a new water heater and make sure it runs safely and efficiently. This is important for preventing damage to your home or any injuries that may occur due to faulty plumbing.
Contact Access Heating & Air Conditioning Today!
At Access Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in all types of water heater repairs and replacements. We offer fast, reliable service at competitive prices and are here to help you get your hot water back on track. Contact us today if you need any assistance with your water heater.