SOLUTIONS TO PREVENT RUNNING OUT OF HOT WATER
You may have numerous alternatives for dealing with a lack of hot water at home, depending on the cause. Some of the possibilities are straightforward. One option is to completely replace your unit.
Here are some ideas to assist you to avoid running out of hot water in your home:
- USE LESS WATER
Although this may appear self-evident, some homes just use more water than others. Look for strategies to reduce the amount of water you use. Whether by running your dishwasher less often or performing larger but more occasional loads of laundry, even a slight reduction in your overall water usage can help you save money on hot water. Replace current aerators on your faucets with low-flow aerators.
- TAKE SHORTER SHOWERS
In the same line as conserving water, encourage everyone in your family to take shorter showers. Place a waterproof timer in your shower to keep track of your time. To avoid wasting hot water, keep showers to under five minutes. Installing shower heads with low-flow rates can also help you save water in the shower.
- SCHEDULE YOUR SHOWERS
Most of us have the same morning routine, which means that if you have a large family, many people may shower inside a one-hour window each morning. You may need to assign specific workers to shower sooner or the night before. You can alternate being the one to shower first weekly or daily basis. Make a plan that works for your family's needs, and keep in mind that it will prevent everyone from having to take a cold shower.
- USE ECO-MODE
Most dishwashers now offer an eco-mode that consumes less water and does it more efficiently. Sprayers are used on both the upper and lower racks, and a pre-soaking spray is used to soften food on dishes before introducing soap for the wash. If you know you'll be using many appliances or showers simultaneously, set your dishwasher on eco-mode to avoid running out of hot water.
- WASH CLOTHES IN COLD WATER
While washing delicate clothing in cold water is suggested, other things can be washed in cold water. Put your items in a cold-water washing machine. Today, specially formulated detergents are available to clean just as well in cold water as in warm water.
- UPGRADE TO A MORE EFFICIENT UNIT
Over time, older units become less efficient. Check your water heater's sticker to check if it's nearing the end of its life. To avoid running out of hot water, it's probable that you'll need to replace your unit. The money spent will be money saved from wasteful energy use in your home.
- UPGRADE TO A LARGER UNIT
If you've determined that a larger hot water unit is all you need to fulfill your family's needs, you'll need to figure out how big to go. First, figure out when your family's "peak hour" is.
One household's peak period, for example, could be from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m., when people are getting ready for work and school. Estimate the total number of gallons consumed by adding bathing, shaving, washing, any cooking activity, and any clothes washing activity during that one hour. The US Department of Energy estimates that a person uses an average of 10 gallons of water per shower. The expected water flow when using the kitchen or bathroom faucet is two gallons per minute.
Based on your calculations, you'll need to choose a hot water tank with an FHR (First Hour Rating) within one to two gallons of your peak hour demand figure. The water heater's FHR will be displayed on the Energy Guide label.
- CONTACT A PLUMBER
If the problem persists and you fear your water heater is broken, call a pro. A plumber can diagnose the problem and recommend a solution to stop running out of hot water.