Running Out Of Hot Water Is Annoying
There can be few worse ways to start the day than the hot water running out while you are having your morning shower. Annoying as having to finish showering in cold water may be, there could be a perfectly simple reason why your water heating system has stopped providing hot water.
The source of the issue may be a high demand on your hot water heater. This issue is common in homes that use radiators and hot water to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the winter season. However, it will not be long before heated water is back on tap. If the hot water doesn’t last long when you shower, we have created a list of tips to help you diagnose issues with your hot water heater.
Why Is There Minimal Or No Hot Water When I Shower?
1. Temperature Control
Before putting in a call with a licensed plumber it is well worth checking if there really is a problem with the water heater unit. This will include checking if the temperature control is set properly.
You will also want to check if any fuses have blown or if the pilot light on a gas powered system is out. If any of these ‘issues’ are responsible for the lack of hot water, they can be fixed fairly simply. Otherwise the problem could be far more serious and may need the expertise of a professional to fix them.
2. Damaged Parts
The lack of hot water for the shower and elsewhere in the home may be down to several reasons. It could be faulty parts in the water heating unit, an obstructed flue, the build-up of sediment or a malfunctioning temperature control. When dealing with these problems it is always best to call in the plumbing professionals.
3. Faulty Shower Valves
If your hot water is not lasting long in your shower, this is a sign of a damaged shower valve. The issue may negatively impact the hot water in your bathroom even though warm water is available elsewhere on your property. Are you receiving warm water in your kitchen and not the bathroom? You will need to perform an inspection of your shower valve to determine if it needs to be replaced.
There are various reasons why a shower valve may not function properly. They can deteriorate over time, particularly the rubber valves. The heated water, over a long period can make the rubber distort and swell, inhibiting the flow of water. Bits of the rubber breaking off can also lead to blockages in the hot water valve and could be the reason why your showers are turning cold.
A majority of issues with shower valves will require special tools to take apart the fixture and or remove the cartridge. You need to know what you are doing to prevent water damage and other issues in your bathroom. It may be smart to contact a professional plumber to help fix your deteriorated valve.
Tips & Insights: What Are the Benefits Of Buying a Tankless Water Heater?
4. Corrosion
In older properties the problem could be caused by corroded galvanized steel pipes. Corrosion is much less likely to occur in modern properties which have copper or plastic piping installed. In such cases it is best to first shut off the hot water valve and check if it is closed. Opening it may well solve the problem. If not, it may be time to call out a plumbing contractor to deal with the piping.
Plumbing Repair and Installation Services
Are you receiving little to no hot water in your shower? Give our team of skilled technicians a call at 1-800-642-4419 to schedule an appointment. Our team of local plumbers in Abington, PA and other areas have the tools and skills required to restore hot water in your shower.
Our team of plumbing professionals consists of some of the most experienced and most qualified plumbers working today in industry. Our technicians offer a variety of plumbing services such as sump pump installation, water line replacement, drain cleaning, and water heater repair. Our staff can accurately diagnose and quickly fix any and all plumbing problems. Plumbing emergencies are our specialty!