Possible Causes and Repair Options When Water is Not Sufficiently Hot
by Nicholas Chambers
Over time, the water coming from your faucets may no longer be as hot as it once was. This is one of the most common issues that you will have to deal with while using a gas water heater. The cause of the cooler water can vary. This means that you need to be aware of what the various causes may be and what the repair options are.
Unit
If the size of your gas water heater unit is not large enough, this has the ability to result in the water not being hot enough. You can calculate the exact size of gas water heater that is required for your home based on fixture flow rates. You should always begin by double checking to make sure that the unit is sufficient in size. The only way to correct this issue is to get a larger gas water heater.
Dip Tube
One part on your gas water heater that can wear overtime and result in water not being heated correctly is the dip tube. When the dip tube is not properly functioning, this allows the hot and cold water to combine. You can correct this problem by taking off the cold water inlet in order to slide off the dip tube. You can then replace the old dip tube with a new model and the problem should be resolved.
Installation
It is also possible for the culprit of your hot water problem to be improper installation of your gas water heater. In many cases, the hot and cold water connections can become crossed, which results in the water not being hot enough to meet demands. It is possible for you to determine if you have a crossed connection by shutting off the water supply to your gas water heater. If you open the hot water faucet and water flow is evident, you have a cross connection at some point. This means that you have to inspect the many appliances in your home to find out where the hot water line is connected to a cold water connection.
Heating Element
It is also advised that you check the heating element on your gas water heater. This is important because you need to make sure that the gas supply is not hindered in any way. Make sure that you take a look at the flame and ensure that the color is blue throughout and only orange at the tip of the flame.
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About Me
If I didn't know better, I'd think my toddler started each day with a challenge to throw something new and different down the toilet. He has managed to put nearly anything can imagine down the toilet. I have gotten pretty good at figuring out what has gone missing down the loo and whether it's something I can fix or something that I need to call the plumber to help me fix it. This blog is for other mums of toddlers who need to get toys out of the toilet and get the toilet back to working condition as soon as possible!