The morning rush to get ready for work certainly tests your patience when it takes several minutes for your shower to get hot. So why is your water taking so long to heat up? Well, there are four likely answers at the top of the list of common possibilities, and one easy way to determine which one is causing your hot water woes. Continue reading to learn the 4 common causes of slowly heating water, including how to identify and resolve your particular hot water deficiency issue.

There are several reasons why your water takes too long to heat up. However, topping the list of possibilities include the following 4 culprits:

⚠ Old or Defective Water Heater

The most common and obvious reason why your water takes too long to heat up is due to an old or defective unit. Water heaters are designed to last between 8 to 10 years on average; so if your unit is close to 8 years old, or older, it is likely time to have your water heater replaced with a more efficient and innovative model. See our blog, “The Water Heater Repair Facts You Need to Know” to learn how to distinguish between the need to replace or repair a water heater.

⚠ Water Heater Sediment Buildup

The next most common cause of delayed water heating is sediment buildup inside your water heater tank. Hard water contains hard minerals that are extracted from the water when heated, but settle at the bottom of the tank. If you do not stay on top of routine water heater maintenance, including regular flushes, this sediment will begin to negatively affect the overall performance and efficiency of your unit. See our blog, “Learning About Sediment Buildup in Water Heaters” to understand the effects of water heater sediment, and what you can do to prevent sediment issues.

⚠ Hot Water Heater Distance

If there is no obvious reason for your delayed water heating, it could be due to the fact that your water heater is far away from your shower. The distance of water heaters from the demand source (in this case, your shower head) can affect the length of time it takes to reach the temperature that is set on your water heater. You can combat this issue by installing a point-of-use water heater, or similar alternative. Otherwise, you would have to re-do the entire plumbing architecture of your home.

⚠ Low Volume Restrictors

If nothing else seems to jump out as a reason for your delayed water heating, it could be because you have low volume restrictors set on some of your plumbing fixtures, like your shower. These restrictors delay the amount of water delivered, as well as, the level of heat achieved. Talk to a licensed and insured Indianapolis plumber to learn how to fix or adjust your home’s low volume restrictors.

How to Confirm Your Water Heater Issue

The most accurate and efficient method to determining the problem with your unit is to call in a professional Indianapolis plumber who specializes in hot water heater repair and service. They have the proper training, experience, and resources to make correct diagnostics in a convenient time frame. Just be sure to choose a reputable plumbing company that is state-licensed and fully-equipped for the job.

Who Can You Trust for Water Heater Service?

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for free estimates, advice, and information regarding hot water heaters, anytime. Not only are we state-licensed master plumbers who specialize in water heater repair and service, we gladly provide recommendations and advice. Whether residential or commercial, we can provide all the water heater services you need. Call 317-784-1870 to get started.