My hot water heater is heating the water in half the time than it normally was. It wasn't turned up. Could I be looking at replacing it? Is it adjusting to the colder temperatures? Its only about 5 years old.

Most likely there's nothing wrong with it since it is only 5 years old. Then again, one never knows with a water heater. My suggestion is to call in for a clean and check on the unit.

My source: my Dad - he works on water heaters All the time ;o)

Hi Charlo

It sounds like you have an electric water heater. If this is the case then most likely you have a defective heating element.

If you are handy and have an electrical tester then we can walk you through the tests to confirm which element (or thermostat) is defective.

If you have a gas water heater let me know and we'll see what we can do to trouble shoot the issue(s).

The water heater should NOT need replacing!

Back to you...

Mark

My hot water heater is heating the water in half the time than it normally was
More details please. Gas or electric? Is the water boiling hot or does it simply heat to a set temperature in half the time, Let me say this about replacing a water heater,
Any water heater with the tank intact with no leaks can be rebuilt and with the proper maintenance give many more years of service.
Case in point! My water heater's a 30 gallon, single element, under the counter that is the original heater that came with my house when it was built 57 ago in 1955. Regards, Tom