My 3-4 year old gas water heater is not keeping the water hot, only warm, when no hot water has been used during the day. Once some hot/warm water has been used I have a lot of 140 degree water. Is there somethng simple that need to be adjusted?

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Originally Posted by parti94

My 3-4 year old gas water heater is not keeping the water hot, only warm, when no hot water has been used during the day. Once some hot/warm water has been used I have a lot of 140 degree water. Is there somethng simple that need to be adjusted?

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If it is a 2 element water heater one element could be burned out. Very simple to replace, that can help you at your local hardware store.

Corriehac, Did you notice that he had a GAS HEATER? That being said, I would check the thermostat. It doesn't want to maintain temperature when not making a draw. When you make a draw it pulls cold water into the heater forcing the burner to kick on and bring the water up to temperature.
Also if you don't flush your heater on a regular basis it will build up minerals on the floor that will act as insulation and not will only cut down on the heat from the burner but will increase your energy bill. For long life and fewer troubles you should keep your heater clear of mineral build-up by flushing on a regular schedule. Let me show you how. Attach a hose to the boiler drain at the bottom of the tank. With the pressure on, open the boiler drain and let it run until the water runs clear. You will see a spurt of red,(rust) followed by white grains,(lime or calcium carbonate). This shouldn't take more then a few minutes. Do this monthly to keep it clear. Don't forget to flush it out every month. Your heater will thank you for it. Hope this helps, Tom

Thanks for the info Tom. How does one check a thermostat? Is that something anyone can do or do I need to call in a pro?

Thermostats are inexpensive so just replace it. Let me know how you make out. Regards, Tom

Thanks Tom. That did the trick.