Does your water heater run out of hot water within a short time? This post will give a complete idea about this issue and how to fix it.
A new water heater may go out of hot water quickly if there is an excessive demand for hot water, a small water heater, incorrect temperature setting, reduced water pressure, damaged dip tube, or sediment build-up.
Here is the list of various water heaters and their maximum temperature, pressure range, and capacity range that will help you to operate the machine effortlessly.
| Type Of Water Heater | Maximum Temperature | Pressure Range | Capacity Range |
| Conventional Tank Water Heater | More than 120° Fahrenheit | 40 to 100 psi | 20 to 80 gallons on average |
| Tankless Water Heater | As high as 140° Fahrenheit | 15 to 150 psi | 2 to 5 gallons per minute |
| Heat Pump Water Heater | As high as 80° Fahrenheit | 12 to 150 psi | 40 to 80 gallons on average |
| Instant Gas Water Heater | As high as 120° Fahrenheit | 15 to 100 psi | 10 to 30 liters per minute |
| Solar-Powered Water Heater | As high as 80° Fahrenheit | 20 to 150 psi | 100 to 300 liters on average |
| Condensing Water Heater | As high as 140° Fahrenheit | 15 to 80 psi | 34 to 75 gallons on average |
Why Your New Water Heater Runs Out Of Hot Water Quickly And How To Solve It?
It is crucial to figure out the main culprit. Here are the most common causes that trigger a new water heater to go out of hot water swiftly.
Inadequate Water Heater Size
How many family members do you have?
Choosing a larger tank is essential if you have a large family.
You are more likely to run out of water faster if all family members actively use water daily.
Solution
If you have chosen a too-small water tank for your large family, replace it with a new one.
Here is an ideal water tank size depending on your family size.
| Family Size | Number of people in the family | Ideal Storage size |
| Small Family | 2 to 3 people | 50- to 60 gallons of water |
| Medium Family | 3 to 4 people | 70- to 80 gallons of water |
| Large Family | 4 to 6 people | 50- to 60 gallons of water |
Excessive Demand
Do all your family members bathe or use hot water during the peak hours at a time?
This will cause a quick ending of hot water storage.
The water storage can’t cope with the excessive demand.
Solution
01. Install a new water tank with a larger water capacity.
02. Or, make a schedule for when to use the water. Avoid using it during peak hours.
03. Alternatively, increase the psi of your main water line to refill the tank rapidly.
Decreased Water Pressure
Didn’t you install a compatible water pressure regulator to ensure the optimal water pressure level?
Extremely slow or rapid changes in water pressure level can lead to a quick shortage of hot water.
Solution
01. Grab all handy tools to increase the water pressure.
02. Keep the psi level at least 40 for a smooth water flow.
03. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation to know the ideal psi
Sediment Build-Up
Does your tap water have an extreme water hardness or too much contaminant?
Water with 120 to 170 mg/L hardness level is more likely to cause a faster sediment build-up.
Cross-check the base of the water heater tank to learn its current condition.
Solution
01. Drain ad flush all water from the water heater tank.
02. Add one gallon of cider vinegar and keep the entire tank soaked for 6 hours.
03. Finally, wash the tank properly with normal water and refill the water.
Improper Installation
Another common issue could be improper installation.
Some household owners prefer to install them of their own to save a few bucks.
But it could lead to long-term issues.
Solution
01. Hire a professional plumber if you don’t have advanced plumbing skills.
02. Go through all plumbing fittings and parts to ensure everything is installed correctly.
03. If any parts are leaked or damaged, repair or replace them immediately.
Final Words
Regardless of the reason for the quick hot water shortage in a water heater, it is crucial to address them immediately to avoid further issues in the future.
Reference
01. Vermont Department of Health, Health & The Environment, 2022. HARDNESS IN DRINKING WATER, DRINKING WATER
