Why Your Water Heater Takes Too Long to Heat & How to Fix It
- dj1220131
- Mar 21
- 4 min read
It is really annoying if your water heater heats slowly—especially in a hurry for that hot shower. Slow-heating water heaters waste time and increase energy expenses. Luckily, there are a number of reasons this could be happening, most of which have simple solutions. If you run into this problem in San Diego, you might need to call water heater repair San Diego experts to help you sort it out.
Most Common Causes Why Your Water Heater Takes Long to Heat:
Before trying to find a solution to your problem, it is good to start by knowing what could be causing the slow heating of your water heater. Here are some of the well-known reasons:
1. Sediment-Buildup in the Tank
Slowly, some minerals from hard water settle at the bottom of the water heater. These sediments reduce the efficiency of the heating element, which makes heating water take more time.
Solution:
Drain water heater at least once every year to remove sedimentation build-up. If the heavy sedimentation has caused problems, seek professional assistance from a San Diego water heater repair to drain the tank properly.
2. Broken Heating Element
In the course of time, the heating elements in an electric water heater may wear out or become defective. When either one of the heating elements or both fail, the heater will no longer be able to heat water to an appropriate temperature.
Solution:
We would suggest you measure the heating elements with a multimeter.
Replace any defective heating units with new ones to make sure it works properly.
3. A Small Water Heater for a Large Household
Your present water heater may have been perfectly sufficient years ago, but as the family has grown, it may no longer be able to support demand. The small tank takes more time to reheat hot water once it is consumed.
Solution:
Get a water heater with a capacity that corresponds to your household needs.
Think about possibly installing a tankless water heater that provides on-demand hot water.
4. Thermostat Issues
Any prolonged heating would generally indicate a low temperature setting on the water heater thermostat. Also not so operationally efficient could be a faulty thermostat.
Solution:
If the hot water thermostat is, unfortunately, set to erratic settings, it should be set between 120°F and 140°F. If found faulty, you may need to call an expert on replacing water heater thermostats or even consider hiring a San Diego water heater repair expert.
5. Low Gas Pressure (Gas Water Heaters)
A gas water heater needs a constant supply of gas to heat water properly. The burner would not generate enough heat due to a consistent low gas pressure in your house, and delays would be experienced in heating the water.
Solution: Check for obstruction or leaks in the gas supply line. An emergency call to the gas company would suffice for the low gas pressures or a plumber to check the entire system.
6. Problems Associated with Pilot Light or Igniter
Lack of proper ignition by pilot light or igniter in gas water heater causes failure in flame start by burner causing delay in heating function.
Solution:
Check it from the pilot light if on; if not, relight it according to manufacturer's instructions.
Faulty igniter needs replacement done by an expert.
7. Damaged dip tube
The dip tube directs cold water downwards for heating at the lower portion of the tank. If it is cracked or ruptured, cold water will mix with the hot water at the upper part of the tank and delay the heating process of the collected water.
Solution:
Inspect the dip tube for damage and replace it if necessary.
8. Inadequate Insulation Surrounding the Tank or Pipelines
Poor insulation of heat water pipelines or the water heater's tank can cause heat loss in the system, making the heating of water take a longer time.
Recommendation:
Wrap the water heater with an insulating blanket to reduce loss of heat.
Insulate hot water pipes for the retention of temperature of water while passing it on to faucets and showers.
9. Extreme Cold Weather
In winter months, water being fed into the heater is far colder, so the unit is slower to warm it up.
Solution:
Raise the thermostat setting a notch or two to account for colder water.
Look into replacing the water heater with a more energy-efficient model if cold weather consistently is an issue.
10. Old or Obsolete Water Heater
If your water heater is older than 10-15 years, it might just be losing efficiency because of age. Older models have worn-out parts that reduce performance.
Solution:
Replace your water heater with a new energy-efficient unit.
A professional water heater repair San Diego expert can assist you in selecting the best unit for your requirements.
When to Call a Professional for Water Heater Repair in San Diego
While some minor problems can be resolved with DIY help, large problems need professional help. If you notice:
Water taking much longer to heat
Odd noises emanating from the water heater
Leaks or water damage around the unit
Rusty or discolored water
It's time to call a water heater repair San Diego professional for inspection and repair.
Conclusion
Although a water heater that heats up slowly is certainly a nuisance, having an idea of the causes can help you zero in on possible solutions. Whether sediment build-up, faulty heating elements, or a defective thermostat, the sooner the repair takes place, the less you have to worry about running out of hot water. Should you be unable to make the repairs, do not stress about it; just call for professionals to handle water heater repairs in San Diego and keep your unit in order.
Require professional assistance? Hire a professional plumbing expert today!
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