Wintertime is upon us, and if there’s anything that puts water heaters to the test, it’s cold weather. You might notice that you have to turn your shower dial further toward the hot side to get the same water temperature in the winter as you do in the summer. Or perhaps you have to let the water run for a few seconds before it’s warm enough to wash your hands.
If you’re like most homeowners, you don’t think much about your water heater until you start having problems. Check out our five most common questions people ask about the hot water in their homes.
1. At What Temperature Should My Water Heater Be Set?
Temperature setting for water heaters is a widely debated topic, and some of it can be left to personal preference. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that water heater thermostats be set between 120 and 130 degrees to reduce the risk of burns in children. Tap water is the most frequent cause of nonfatal burn injuries among children in the United States, so follow this recommendation to keep your family safe.
2. Why Does It Take So Long To Get Hot Water?
If you have to wait several seconds or even minutes to get hot water to your shower or faucet, you might be worried that your water heater has problems. In reality, this generally has more to do with the plumbing system in your home than with the water heater. Large homes and ranch-style houses tend to have longer pipelines, so it takes longer for the hot water to reach the faucet.
3. Why Am I Always Running Out of Hot Water?
Running out of hot water faster than you used to is a strong indicator that something’s wrong with your water heater. Problems might include a broken dip tube or a failed heating element. A plumber should be able to help you with the repairs, but in more severe cases, a new water heater might be in order.
4. How Long Do Water Heaters Last?
Generally, a tank water heater will last 10-15 years. A tankless water heater has a longer lifespan and will usually function appropriately for around 20 years. Watch for leaks and strange noises or smells coming from your water heater to know when it’s time to start planning for a replacement.
5. How Do I Keep My Water Heater Working As Long As Possible?
A water heater in a home with hard water will wear down much faster than one with soft water. Sediment build-up in the tank can wreak havoc on your water heater, but you can help extend its life by flushing your water heater tank every year. Call a professional plumber to help with water heater maintenance and repair to keep it functioning year after year.
Quick Quality Plumbing Can Help
If your water heater is acting up, Quick Quality Plumbing can help. Our licensed and certified plumbers have experience repairing water heaters and fixing any other plumbing problems that might arise. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Lehi, American Fork, Provo, and Orem, Utah, and everywhere in between. Contact Quick Quality Plumbing today!
