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Why Your Water Heater Keeps Running Out of Hot Water

Water Heater Room

Why Your Water Heater Keeps Running Out of Hot Water (And How to Fix It)

There’s nothing worse than stepping into a hot shower, only for the water to turn ice cold a few minutes later. If your water heater isn't providing enough hot water, you're not alone. It's a common plumbing issue, but why does it happen? More importantly, how can you fix it?

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons your water heater keeps running out of hot water and what you can do to fix it.

1. Your Water Heater is Too Small for Your Needs

If you have a conventional tank water heater, the size of the tank determines how much hot water is available at any given time. If your household’s demand exceeds the tank’s capacity, you’ll run out of hot water quickly.

How to Tell If Your Water Heater Is Too Small

  • Showers run cold after just 10-15 minutes.
  • Doing laundry or running the dishwasher drains your hot water supply fast.
  • Your household has grown, but your water heater hasn’t been upgraded.

Solution
Consider upgrading to a larger water heater or a tankless water heater, which provides hot water on demand without ever running out.

2. Sediment Buildup is Reducing Efficiency

Over time, minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the tank, forming sediment buildup. This layer of sediment insulates the water from the burner, making it take longer to heat up and reducing your available hot water supply.

Signs of Sediment Buildup

  • Your water heater makes popping or rumbling sounds.
  • Discolored water comes from your faucets.
  • Your water takes longer to heat up than it used to.

Solution
Flushing your water heater once a year removes sediment buildup and improves its efficiency.

3. The Dip Tube is Broken

The dip tube directs cold water to the bottom of the tank, where it can be heated. If it’s broken, cold water mixes with the hot water at the top of the tank, reducing your hot water supply.

Signs of a Broken Dip Tube

  • Water turns cold much faster than usual.
  • You notice small plastic pieces in your water (from the deteriorating dip tube).

Solution
A plumber can replace the dip tube to restore proper water heating.

4. The Thermostat is Set Too Low

If your water heater’s thermostat is set too low, it won’t produce enough hot water to meet your needs.

Solution
Check your water heater’s thermostat and set it to 120°F (49°C) for optimal performance.

5. A Faulty Heating Element (Electric Water Heaters)

Electric water heaters use heating elements to warm the water. If one of these elements fails, your heater will only work at half capacity, resulting in insufficient hot water.

Signs of a Failing Heating Element

  • You run out of hot water faster than usual.
  • Water takes longer than normal to heat up.
  • The water temperature is inconsistent.

Solution
A professional plumber can test and replace the faulty heating element.

6. Gas Supply Issues (Gas Water Heaters)

For gas water heaters, an inconsistent gas supply can cause inadequate heating.

Possible Causes

  • A partially closed gas valve limiting fuel supply.
  • A faulty gas burner that needs cleaning or replacement.
  • A thermocouple issue preventing the burner from staying lit.

Solution
Ensure the gas valve is fully open and have a professional inspect the burner and thermocouple.

7. Your Water Heater is Old and Failing

If your water heater is over 10 years old, it may simply be reaching the end of its lifespan.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Replacement

  • Frequent leaks or repairs.
  • Water takes too long to heat, even after maintenance.
  • Rusty water or corrosion on the tank.

Solution
Replacing an aging water heater with a new, energy-efficient model can save you money on repairs and energy bills.

Get Professional Help Before You Run Out of Hot Water Again!

If you’re constantly running out of hot water, it’s time for a professional inspection. The experts at Nearby Plumbing can diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution.

📞 Call us today at 385-308-5384 for fast, reliable water heater repair and replacement services in Midvale & West Jordan, Utah.
🚿 Never suffer through another cold shower again! 🚿