I have a 1955 ranch style house with copper plumbing and a 5 year old Kenmore Power Miser gas hot water tank (40 gallons).We have lived here 3 years.

The problem: Luke warm water in the lines about 40% of the time. This can happen any time of the day, not only with the first use of the day. The strange thing is it used to be 100% fine hot water all the time. Could this be a thermostat issue?
Please help me troubleshoot this problem so I don't waste time
Thanks:)

If it worked once then I would change out the thermostat or at least check the setting. It should be set in a 10 degree spread between 120 degrees.
Good luck, Tom

Thank you for the quick response! Now for another question. I checked on a new thermostat from Kenmore and it is $86.00. I called the plumbing supply house and they have a generic one for $12.00. Do the generc work or should I go for the Kenmore brand?
Thanks again,
Sherry

Hi Sherry,

If the thermostat will fit then go with the generic one. I would like to know what makes the Kenmore worth $74.00 more then a thermostat that will do the same thing for $12.00. I would certainly ask Kenmore. Thermostats have but one function and that's to control the temperature. No bells and whistles there.
The Kenmore name isn't worth the extra $74.00.
Good luck, tom