proteus0034
Dec 17, 2007, 09:46 PM
Runs out of hot water to fast
Flying Blue Eagle
Dec 17, 2007, 11:59 PM
Proteusoo34 - There can be 4 causes . #1- What is the settings on the thermostates?? #3 you could have a water leak in the hot water lines somewhere. #4 on the cold side water inlet, there is a tube down inside of the tank that puts the cold water down to the bottom of the tank as hot water is drawed out, they desolve away a lot of the time or brake off,and puts cold water at the top. Lets do easiest first, #1 Turn off power ,remove cover s over thermostates * Heating Elements ,Normal setting is useally set at 115 to130 , when children are in the household I always set them at 110(Letting owners know) If OK go to #2 While you are at the right place, take a ohm meter (POWER STILL OFF) a#2phillips screw driveer on one side of heating element lossen one screw and remove wire, with ohm meter set on conuinity, put a probe on each screw, needle should move to right on meter, IF THE ELEMENT IS BLOWED THE METER WILL LIE TO YOU <SO take and move one probe to the metal tank it self ,if meter needle moves to right element is bad. If OK ,hook wires back up ,replace covers, turn power back on#3 with all water off inside & outside of house ,open water meter cover and watch the needles for movement. Most meters now have a small red or blue needle also , it will show a small leak faster then the big one , no movement ,good #4, the tube on cold water side, turn off water & power to hot water tank,hook water hose to drain on bottom of tank to drain off pressure in tank,about 4 OR 5 gal. Disconnect water (COLD) line at tank then remove the tube and install a new one, the tube goes almost full length of the tank ,if it don't don't worry thers a lot of broke off pieces in tanks in the country, I went blank I can't think of the name of the tube. After replaceing all you took apart ,open kitchen faucet on hot side turn on water ,let tank fill Until GOOD FULL STREM COMES OUT FAUCET, Turn off faucet ,check for any leaks at hot water tank, if any repair. Now Turn power back on . I hope this has helped you ,If so rate my answer, Good luck ,Stay safe, GOD BLESS< :::: F.B.E.