Water Heater FAQs: Why Won’t My Water Get Hot & More

When You Have Questions, We Have Answers

While you rely on your water heater every day, you probably don’t know a lot about how it works. That’s okay! That is what the water heater specialists at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing are here for! We take the guesswork out of water heaters. From repairs and installation to answering your tough questions and clearing up common water heater myths, we are your go-to water heater experts.

Keep reading as we answer five commonly asked questions about water heaters.

#1: Why Is My Water Not Getting as Hot as It Should?

Most of us do not enjoy lukewarm showers. It is incredibly frustrating when we wait and wait for our water to get hot, and it never does. But, what is causing the issue? There are a couple of reasons you may be dealing with water that never gets as hot as it should.

The first and easiest fix is to check the thermostat on your water heater. Most water heaters have multiple settings, and while you do not want to set your water heater too high and risk a scalding accident, you may find that your water heater is on the wrong setting. It is generally recommended that water heaters be set to around 120. This is hot enough to keep your water safe but not so hot that you burn yourself.

Children and babies have very delicate skin that burns more quickly and at lower temperatures than adults. If you have children, always test the water temperature before allowing them to use it. The recommended bath temperature for babies and children is 100° or less. Additionally, never leave children unattended in the bath, shower, or wherever they may accidentally turn on the hot water tap.

Other reasons your water heater isn’t getting your water warm enough could be that your water heater has lost efficiency or a repair problem. If you have checked the thermostat settings on your water heater and are still having an issue, reach out to a professional water heater repair technician for an inspection.

#2: Does the Size of My Water Tank Matter?

Yes! The size of your water heater’s storage tank does matter. If the tank is sized too small for your home or needs, you will find yourself regularly running out of hot water. You will also find that the water heater has to run more often as it tries to keep up with your demand. This can lead to greater wear and tear on the unit and more frequent repair issues.

Conversely, if your water tank is too large, you will end up spending extra money on your water and gas bills to keep that excess water warm. The best way to ensure that your water heater is appropriately sized for your home and needs is to work with an experienced water heater installation team, like ours at Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.

#3: Will My Water Heater Work If the Power Goes Out?

Whether your water heater will work during a power outage will depend on what powers your water heater. If your water heater is powered by electricity, it will not function during a power outage. However, this doesn’t mean you will be completely without hot water. Because most water heaters rely on gravity to distribute water through your home, whatever hot water you have in your tank when the power goes out will still be available to you. That being said, if the power is out for any length of time, this water will either be used up or cool.

While most people have electric-powered water heaters, if you happen to have a gas-powered water heater, it will continue to work during a power outage.

#4: Do I Need a Water Heater Blanket?

Has anyone ever told you that you need a water heater blanket? First of all, you may be wondering what a water heater blanket even is. Water heater blankets are insulation that is designed to enrobe your water heater and prevent heat loss. While this seems like a great idea, it may not be necessary for your water heater. Most modern water heaters have built-in insulation, making extra insulation in the form of a water heater blanket redundant. However, if your water heater is older or if it is warm to the touch, you may be one of the few people who can benefit from extra insulation.

However, before you go out and spend money on a water heater blanket, reach out to Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. We can help you determine if this is truly necessary and worth the cost.

#5: Why Is My Water Heater Making Noise?

Several things may be causing your water heater to make noise. The most common is sediment in the tank. As sediment builds up in the bottom of the tank, it may make a rumbling or even a popping sound as the water boils and moves the sediment. Over time, if there is too much sediment buildup in your tank, it can cause a problem. Therefore, if you hear your water heater rumbling, it is worth reaching out to a water heater repair specialist for an inspection.

Other sounds, such as ticking or hissing, may be related to either your heating element or the pressure inside your tank. Though these sounds may seem concerning, they usually aren’t a big deal. However, if you hear them frequently or don’t go away, you should speak with a repair technician to rule out any other issues.

If you hear excessive noises or notice signs of a leak in your water heater, reach out to Donmar Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. We will be out in a flash to make sure your water heater is running efficiently.