My hot water doesn't last as long as it used to
If the second shower of the morning now turns cold when it never used to, your hot water system is telling you something. Running out sooner usually means part of the system has failed or the tank isn't holding as much hot water as it should. Sometimes it's a simple repair; sometimes it's a sign the system is near the end of its life. Here's how to tell.
Common causes
Failed element or thermostat
Electric storage systems heat with an element controlled by a thermostat. When one fails, the tank heats slowly or only partly. Some tanks have two elements, and losing one halves the hot water.
Sediment in the tank
Grit settles in the bottom of the tank and takes up space, and on gas systems it insulates the water from the burner, so heating takes longer.
Off-peak timing
Systems on an off-peak tariff only heat at set times. A changed meter or tariff can mean the tank isn't reheating when you need it.
Gas burner problems
A dirty burner or faulty gas control means the water takes longer to heat and recovers slowly between showers.
More people, same tank
A household that has grown, or new rain showers with higher flow, can simply outrun the tank.
Heat pump issues
Heat pumps slow down in cold weather and need clear airflow. A blocked filter or failed fan reduces how much hot water they make.
Repair or replace?
If the system is under about ten years old and the tank isn't leaking, a new element, thermostat or gas control is usually worth doing. If it's older, leaking, or the water is coming out brown, replacing it is often the better spend. We'll check it and give you clear options and a fixed price before any work starts, so you can decide. See hot water servicing and hot water replacement.
Things to note before you call
- How old is the system? The date is usually on the label.
- Electric, gas, heat pump or solar?
- Has anything changed: more people, new shower heads, a new electricity meter or tariff?
- Any water around the base of the tank or from the relief valve?
In southern Eastern Suburbs homes
Many family homes in Matraville, Pagewood, Eastgardens and Maroubra still run the same storage tank that was put in years ago, sized for a smaller household. When the kids become teenagers, the tank can't keep up. In those cases a bigger tank or a continuous flow system is often the real fix. Our hot water guide compares the options.
Why locals call us
- Local to Matraville and the southern Eastern Suburbs
- Free on-site quotes, with a fixed price before any work starts
- Lifetime labour warranty on our workmanship
- 100+ five-star Google reviews
- Licensed plumbers and gasfitters (Lic. 398171C)
Common questions
Why does my hot water run out so quickly now?
Common causes are a failed element or thermostat, sediment in the tank, a gas burner fault or a change in off-peak heating times.
Can a hot water element be replaced?
Yes, on most electric storage systems the element and thermostat can be replaced, which is often worthwhile if the tank is in good condition.
How long should a hot water system last?
Many storage systems last around eight to fifteen years, depending on the water, the type of system and how well it's maintained.
Should I get a bigger hot water system?
If your household has grown or you've added showers, a bigger tank or a continuous flow system may be the better fix. We'll help you size it.
Related help: hot water repairs and replacement, electric hot water, gas hot water, continuous flow hot water and brown hot water. Local pages: hot water Matraville, hot water Pagewood, hot water Eastgardens and hot water Maroubra.