Water Temperature in Winter

Once the outside temperature drops, typically so does the area that your water heater is located at. This will cause the water heater to work extra for the water temperature to reach a comfortable temperature. The last thing a resident of a home wants to experience is being mid-shampoo and the hot water begins to run out. There are steps a homeowner can take to make sure the hot water heater is being used most effectively in the cold weather season.

Consider

Where the water heater is located. If your water heater is located in a basement, utility closet or any room that is significantly cooler than the other house, the water going into the system will be colder. When the colder water is mixed with the already hot water inside the tank, the inside water will begin to decrease in temperature. This will make the water feel colder, faster.

The pipes. Are the pipes that carry the hot water from the tank to the faucet exposed for extended periods of time? If the delivery system of hot water is through cold pipes the water will begin to cool down on its way to the output of water.

Solutions

• Add a specially designed blanket for the hot water heater tank to help keep the water warmer.
• Areas of pipe that are exposed can be wrapped with insulation to conserve some of the heat and keep the pipes from getting very cold.
• Insulate the tank.
• Increase the temperature of the water heater tank. A slight change in temperature will make a recognizable difference in the output of water.
• Perform maintenance to ensure there is no sediment buildup inside the tank; this could hinder the functionality.
• Seal any drafts that around the area of the water heater.
• Increase room temperature of where the water heater is located.