I’ve got a 40 gal natural gas hot water heater in a house that lost it’s recovery time. The inhabitants claim that after 1 shower there is no hot water. This is a recent problem. I assumed that it was the dip tube. I pulled out the old and it was fine. I also flushed the unit and got very little sediment. The temp setting is fine. We even increased the temp to see if the thermostat was off. No change, same problem. Any ideas? The unit is about 6-8 years old. Before I put any significant money into it, I’d change it out. But I want to satisfy my curiousity. THE THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE! (Said in a deep voice)
Thanks,
John
Replies
Dear John,
Pin the temperature control and watch it light. Be sure the burner is putting out a full and clean blue flame.
Reset the temp control to 120* and check the actual water temperature.
Regards, Fred
[email protected]
So what are you suggesting.....dirty burner or bad thermostat?
If so, what are my options?
A water heater 6 years old probably isn't worth changing the thermostat.....
Thanks,
John
Dear John,
I suggest you get good information before taking action.
If the burner is fouled, you can clean it. If the temp control is misaligned, you can simply turn it up to produce 120* water.
Easy, fast, cheap, no waste. What's not to like? Fred
[email protected]
That's what I like to hear. Simple repairs vs. replacement.
Thanks,
John