Running out of hot water, whether using a sink or taking a shower, is never a pleasant experience. There are many reasons your hot water might run out, however, you can get more out of your water heater than you think. Here are some tips on how to make hot water last longer in your home.
Change the Water Heater’s Settings
If the thermostat on the tank is set to a higher temperature, hot water may run out more quickly. Lowering it just a few degrees won’t feel much different (it may even avoid being scalding burns). It’ll also avoid a sudden rush of chilly water. Hot water can also run out if the heater is set too cool. In this case, turning up the temperature can provide the hot water you need.
Don’t Use All Your Hot Water Appliances At Once
If someone is taking a shower while the dishwasher and washing machine are running, you’ll run out of hot water faster. To make it last longer, wash the dishes before taking a shower. Running just one water appliance at a time is an effective way to get more hot water. Using cold water instead of hot while doing the laundry also works.
Insulate Your Home’s Hot Water Pipes
Heat escapes more easily from uninsulated pipes, especially if they run through unconditioned areas like the basement or attic. Therefore, hot water will turn cooler once it reaches a faucet or showerhead. To correct this, wrap insulation around pipes and even insulate your water heater to keep heat in. You can do this yourself or hire a plumber to help.
Change Your Shower Habits
A shorter shower can conserve hot water so it’s available for other uses. Or, you can take a bath instead. Showering requires about 5 gallons while a bath typically uses around 2 gallons per minute. These tips can get you more hot water, save on your utility bill, and increase the lifespan of your hot water tank.
Use a Low-Flow Showerhead
Restricting the amount of water used, a low-flow showerhead adjusts the spray so you probably won’t notice the difference. It can help make hot water last longer and reduce your water bill. The device is easy to install and operates just the same as your old showerhead.
Don’t Let the Faucet Run
If you’re wondering how to make hot water last longer, turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing dishes can make a big difference. Letting it run continuously has no benefits. Plus, you’re just wasting water.
Schedule Water Heater Maintenance
Your local plumber can inspect the water heater to determine if the heating elements need to be replaced. They can also check for sediment and corrosion in the tank. The tank can be drained and flushed to remove sediment so the unit works more efficiently. Replacing the hot water tank or installing a secondary tank can improve performance as well.
Replace or Upgrade Your Water Heater
Hot water won’t last long if your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan. A replacement system will provide hot water for longer and is likely to be more energy efficient. Consider a tankless water heater as it can supply a constant supply of hot water and turns on only when needed, thereby saving water and energy.
Ask a Plumber How to Make Hot Water Last Longer
At Village Plumbing, we can inspect your water heater if your hot water isn’t lasting as long as you’d like. No hot water or not enough of it are among the top signs it’s time to have your water heater repaired. To schedule water heater repair in your Houston home, request service by filling out our online form or calling 713-526-1491.