Tag Archives: Water heater flush

Are You Wondering Why Your Shower Was Cold?

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Have your hot showers suddenly gone cold? If so, there is a perfectly good explanation, and more importantly, a prompt solution. Continue reading to learn the most likely reasons why your shower is no longer generating hot water and how to fix a water heating problem, fast.

Indianapolis Hot Water Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Hot Water Heater Services 317-784-1870

Cold Shower Causes and Solutions

Water Heater Thermostat Settings

If your showers are suddenly cold, first check that your gas water heater pilot light is still lit. If this is not the problem, check the thermostat settings on your water heater. It is recommended to keep your water heater set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding accidents. If your water heater thermostat is already set to your desired temperature, it may just be broken.

Hard Water

Have you noticed your showers getting colder and colder overtime? An onset of water heating issues often indicates an accumulation of sediment inside the water heater tank. Sediment is made up of limescale and hard mineral ions that precipitate out of hot water when it is heated. To prevent sediment buildup, have your water heater flushed regularly, and manage hard water with a quality water conditioning system.  

Water Heater Tank Size

Do your showers start off hot or warm, but finish lukewarm or frigid cold? If so, it could be due to your water heater tank size. If your water heater tank is too small for your household, it cannot generate the quantity of hot water needed on demand. This is often the case when a house suddenly takes in more occupants. Be sure your water heater is the right size. For a household of two, a 40 to 50 gallon water heater is suggested. For a house with 4 or more occupants, add another 10 to 15 gallons of tank size per person. A family of 5, for example, would need a 70 to 80 gallon water heater.

Water Heater Parts

Whether your shower has suddenly gone cold or has gradually decreased in warmth overtime, broken water heater parts can always be a likely cause. The most common culprits are dip tubes and lower elements. When these water heater parts break or begin to malfunction, the ability for the water heater to perform as it should diminishes. The dip tube pushes cold water to the bottom of the tank where it is heated, so if it breaks, all the cold water will mix in the tank and make all available water less hot. If the lower heating element is damaged, your water is not being heated at all, resulting in cold showers galore.

Water Heater Age

Water heaters are not designed to last forever, in fact, no more than 8 to 10 years. So, if your water heater is old and you are experiencing cold showers, it could be that you need water heater replacement.

Would you like some assistance with your cold shower and water heating issues? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for professional water heater repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We sale, service, install, and repair hot water heaters.

You Should Also Read:

Top 3 Solutions to Cold Shower Problems
3 Ways to Make Your Shower More Refreshing
How to Retrieve Items that Fall Down the Shower Drain

Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Indiana Master Plumbers 317-784-1870

Can Poor Quality Plumbing Make You Sick?

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Long story short: your plumbing system can make you sick. Continue reading to learn how, and what you can do to treat and prevent plumbing-borne illness at home and in the office.

Indianapolis Emergency Plumbers
Indianapolis Emergency Plumbers 317-784-1870

Plumbing and Health Risks

Plumbing systems are intended to provide and distribute clean, safe water for consumption. So, it might surprise you that your plumbing system can actually be a cause of certain health complications and even illnesses. There are several ways a plumbing system can both cause and transmit illness. However, the top 4 most common areas that are known to generate plumbing-related health issues are water leaks, water heaters, faucets, and drains.

Drains

Clogged drains are a hotbed for all sorts of germs and bacteria, as well as mold and mildew growth. Bacteria, mold, and other types of pathogens are very harmful to a person’s health. They can cause a wide range of infections and health complications, especially in the upper respiratory system. For those who are already suffering from low immunity or respiratory issues, such transmission can be dangerous. If you notice that your shower or bathtub is draining slower than usual, you might have a working clog. Read our blog, “Unclog Any Drain With These 4 Simple Steps” to resolve this issue quickly. Be sure to always maintain your drains by keeping them clear and cleaning them regularly.

Faucets

Faucets, spouts, spigots, and valves are important parts of a plumbing system. However, many were manufactured with lead prior to 1986, as we discovered it is highly toxic. So, if yours fit this description, they might contain lead too. Long-term lead exposure can cause severe illness and health complications, including lead poisoning.

Water Heaters

Water heaters are known to rust overtime if they are not properly-maintained or replaced when necessary. When rust enters the water system, it can have negative effects on your health upon consumption. It is important to replace your water heater every 8 to 10 years, or when recommended by the manufacturer. Furthermore, have your water heater regularly serviced and flushed to avoid harmful sediment buildup that promotes rust development. Aside from rust-colored water, low water pressure may also a sign that your water heater is rusty on the inside. In either case, contact a local water heater professional for emergency service.

Water Leaks

Plumbing leaks can be a major source of disease and germs since standing water can grow all sorts of harmful organisms. Not only can water leaks cause mold and mildew growth, which spread airborne spores that are harmful to our respiratory health, it can also be a Petri dish for bacteria and other toxic pathogens. As soon as you discover a plumbing leak, contact an emergency plumber to avoid causing further damage to your walls, ceilings, floors, foundation, and more. See our blog, “The Common Signs of Leaky Plumbing Pipes” to learn what to look for.

Get Emergency Plumbing Repair For Leaks, Clogs, and More

Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 when you need emergency plumbing repair in Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding counties. We service residential and commercial plumbing services, including water heater repair and water softener repair. Our state-licensed master plumbers have been in the plumbing business for over 100 years because we have earned the trust of thousands of Hoosiers all across the city as a result of our professional service and outstanding results. Request a free estimate or advice, today.