Is there anything as annoying as getting into a nice warm shower…only for the water to turn icy cold a few minutes later? It’s truly miserable, but you don’t have to suffer.
Here are a few simple steps to take to make sure your water heater works the way it should.
Turn Up the Thermostat
A temperature of 120℉ is sufficient for the hot-water needs of most households. But if it isn’t working, try turning the thermostat up a bit and see if it helps.
Relight the Pilot
Follow the directions on the side of your unit to relight your water heater’s pilot light. Sometimes a draft down the vent or from the window can blow it out.
Reset the Circuit Breaker
If your heater runs on electricity, your hot-water woes may be caused by a tripped breaker. Simply switch it back on from the main circuit box.
Check Your Tank For Leaks
If your tank is leaking, this can quickly deplete your hot-water supply. Take a look at the lines connecting your tank to valves and pipes to see what might be causing this.
Pay Attention To the Weather
If you’re in the midst of a cold snap, plunging temperatures can reduce the efficiency of your water heater. Turn the heater all the way up to kick-start it, then turn it back down again.
Reevaluate the Size of Your Tank
Has your family grown since your water tank was installed? It may be time for an upgrade so that your water supply can keep up with the growing need.
Consider a Replacement
If all else fails, you may need to replace the entire unit. The lifespan of a water heater is typically 10-13 years, or less than that if it is overworked and/or poorly maintained.
If troubleshooting a faulty water heater is outside your comfort zone, don’t hesitate to call the team at Icon Plumbing Solutions, and you’ll be enjoying a warm shower again in no time.