There isn’t much point in having a water heater if it’s not going to provide hot water for you. If your water heater output is dropping, there might be a couple of different things wrong with it. A noticeable drop in water heater output is not something to be taken lightly, as it can easily get worse if left alone. Let’s take a look at the different problems that can lead to water heater output dropping, and what you can do to prevent it.
Broken Dip Tube
In a tank water heater, the dip tube is a plastic pipe that runs from the water line to the bottom of the tank. All fresh water that enters the system moves through the dip tube, which prevents it from intermingling with the already-hot water leaving the tank. If the dip tube breaks, cold water from the water line will mix with the warm water in the tank. This causes the overall output of the water heater to drop. The dip t6ube will need to be replaced in order to restore proper function.
Sediment Buildup
Hard water is water with an unusually high amount of calcium and magnesium in it. As hard water flows over surfaces, it deposits small amounts of these minerals. Over time, enough sediment can build up on the bottom of your tank due to this phenomenon that it actually insulates the water inside from heat. This will cause the output of your water heater to drop. A good way to prevent this from happening is to call for water heater maintenance services at least once a year. Most water heater technicians will flush out the tank as part of a maintenance appointment, just in case.
Carney Plumbing, Heating & Cooling offers water heater services throughout Doylestown, PA. Call today to schedule an appointment.