I am not very knowledgeable with my homes plumbing like I should be. But I do know this... hot water has never been a problem in my home for the many years I've lived here. Within the past month, I've noticed that the hot water at all faucets lasts only for a few minutes. We have never had that problem. We do have a tankless hot water heater, and I do understand that I should run out of hot water faster than if I had a tank. But the hot water has always lasted for at least 10-15 minutes. Not anymore. Why could this be? What should I be looking for? This is becoming a pain, during the dead of winter, while taking a shower and/or giving the kids a bath. The water never actually gets real cold, it just gets luke warm with the hot valve(s) in the full open position. My hot water heater is very old. 70's I think. I know I should replace it anyway, but just not in the financial position to do so at this time. Please tell me my problem is something simple. Thanks in advance for any/all responses.

Nutty

Hello Nutty,

Your heater is very old and It sounds like you have a broken dip tube.

The dip tube is a long narrow tube that directs incoming cold liquid to the bottom of the tank, preventing pre-mature mixing of incoming cold liquid with the out going hot liquid at the top of the tank. Without the dip tube, or with a broken dip tube, it may seem as though you run out very quickly, or you just get a Luke warm temperature.

See the Image below, Thanks.

John

How a water heater dip tube works and what it looks like.

Hi John. Thanks, I will check the dip tube. Assuming I have one. As I said, I was told that it is a tankless htr. It is very small and tucked under my basement steps. It's a 3ft x 3ft box. I'm sure it has a tank, just a very small one. Should it also have a dip?

You do not have a dip tube on a tankless water heater, (see image). However ,depending on its size, you have elements. Have them checked and replaced if necessary. Good luck, Tom

Thanks Tom,

I miss read it I thought it was the regular water heater, you are correct there is no have a dip tube on a tank less water heater, Thanks.

Regards,
John the tank less

Nutty1...

Is this a gas or electric tankless water heater..?

Let us know...

MARK