There’s nothing worse than getting in the shower only to find the hot water has run out. When you’re getting cleaned up after a long day or trying to wake up for an early start, a hot shower is a must. So, why are you running out of hot water? And, what can you do to avoid it?
Common hot water issues
As hot water heaters are complex systems, there could be several reasons why your hot water is running out so quickly. Some are easy to fix, while others may require repair or replacement of your hot water system. Here are the most common reasons behind hot water issues and how you can deal with them.
Excess usage
First off, check your recent usage. Have you had guests stay over or have your family taken more showers than usual? It’s possible your hot water issues could be due to excess usage which is easily addressed by being more conscious of when and how you use hot water. If your usage hasn’t changed, then it’s time to look at the unit itself to find the cause of your issues.
System age & size
Another reason your hot water may be running out faster is an ageing unit. Hot water systems generally have a lifespan of 10 – 15 years. If your unit is around this age and your hot water doesn’t seem to go so far anymore, it might be time to replace it with a newer model. You might also find that your current system is no longer big enough to support your daily hot water needs.
Sediment build-up
Your system might have a build-up of dissolved mineral sediments, such as magnesium and calcium. As the water heats up, some of these minerals can fall to the bottom of the tank, becoming a layer of sediment. Over time, this sediment layer can grow and reduce the amount of water that can be stored and heated in the tank, resulting in less hot water.
Faulty element or thermostat
Another common issue is a faulty heating element or thermostat. If the heating element is faulty, it won’t be able to heat up the water effectively, resulting in less hot water. Similarly, there may be a problem with the thermostat. If the temperature can’t be controlled, this can prevent the water from reaching your desired temperature, again limiting your access to hot water.
Faulty relief valve
Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valves automatically ‘vent’ hot water if the temperature or pressure of the water in the tank gets too high. A malfunctioning TPR valve can affect your hot water supply and pose a safety risk to your family. If you notice the TPR valve leaking after using hot water, this may indicate a problem with the valve which will require replacing.
How to solve your hot water issues
If you’ve ruled out excess usage, it’s a good idea to call an expert in to have a look at your system. Your hot water heater might need a simple fix or you may need to look at replacing your unit. Engaging a hot water system specialist, such as OP Plumbing, gives you the best chance to get back to enjoying those hot showers without having to worry about running out.
If you’re experiencing issues with your hot water system and you need professional assistance, OP Plumbing Services is only a call away. Servicing the Sutherland Shire, St George area, Wollongong and Greater Sydney, we’re ready to help you deal with plumbing emergencies and your hot water system needs. Call 0417 299 820 or contact us for immediate assistance.