Few things ruin a good morning faster than a shower that suddenly turns cold. Well, it is a common problem, especially during winter when everyone in the house is using more hot water.
So, what’s really going on? Why does your water heater seem to give up halfway through? Below, this water heater repair company in Des Plaines, Illinois is going to explain the most common reasons why your hot water runs out too quickly.
How does a water heater work?
Traditional tank-style water heaters hold 40 or 50 gallons of hot water. Once you use it up, the tank must refill with cold water and heat it again. That reheating process takes time, which is why you might run out if multiple showers or appliances run back-to-back.
Tankless systems don’t store hot water. They heat it on demand. But even these can get overwhelmed if too many faucets or showers are running at once.
Over time, both types of water heaters lose efficiency. Sediment builds up, and heating elements start to struggle. When that happens, your system works harder but delivers less hot water.
This is where a visit from a professional water heater repair company in Des Plaines, Illinois can be useful. They can clear out buildup and inspect the heating elements to make sure your water heater operates properly.
A few likely reasons your water heater can’t keep up.
One of the biggest reasons is sediment buildup. In Des Plaines and nearby areas, the water is very hard. (For example, Mount Prospect’s water measures around 247 PPM, which is considered very hard.) That means it is packed with minerals like calcium and magnesium, which settle at the bottom of your water heater tank over time.
That layer of sediment acts like insulation, only in the worst way. It blocks heat from reaching the water and takes up valuable space in the tank. The result is less hot water and longer recovery times. Regular flushing by a water heater repair company in Des Plaines, Illinois can clear that sediment and instantly restore performance.
If you have an electric water heater, another possibility is a burned-out heating element. With gas models, a faulty burner or thermocouple can be responsible. Either way, your system just can’t heat the water fast enough, so you run out before you are ready to rinse.
Thermostats can also cause trouble. If yours is set too low (or is malfunctioning), you will never get truly hot water, regardless of how long you wait. Sometimes a small adjustment is enough. Other times, it is a job for a professional.
And then there is the simple issue of water heater size. Families grow, appliances are added, and suddenly that water heater that once worked fine just can’t keep up. In that case, upgrading to a larger tank or a tankless system can be the best long-term solution. Your local water heater repair company can help you decide the best size for your household.
How do you know if it is time to call a professional?
If you notice your water temperature fluctuating, popping sounds, rusty water, or small leaks around the base of the tank, it is recommended that you call a professional. Modern water heaters have safety valves, gas lines, and electrical components that need proper handling. Making a mistake could be dangerous.
Looking for a water heater repair company in Des Plaines, Illinois?
Are you looking for a professional water heater repair company in Des Plaines, Illinois that can get your system back to peak performance? If so, R Carrozza Plumbing Co. is the company to call. Contact us today at (847) 451-7040 to get started.