Winter is the time of year when your water heater can struggle. You may experience lukewarm showers, longer wait times for hot water, and everything in between. But why do these happen?
Here, your partner in water heater repair in Coeur d’Alene, ID, breaks the issues down and what you can do about them.
The Cold Water Factor
Your water heater’s job is simple: heat incoming water to your desired temperature. During winter, water entering your home is significantly colder than it is during the other seasons. This means your unit has to use more energy to get the water up to temperature.
For example, if your heater is set to 120°F, it may have no problem providing hot water in the summer. But in winter, when groundwater temperatures can drop below 40°F, it has to work overtime. This leads to slower heating and lower efficiency.
Pro Tip: Try increasing the temperature setting slightly if it struggles this winter season—just be careful not to go above 140°F to avoid scalding risks.
Aging Water Heaters Struggle More
An aging water heater is slower to warm up. Think of it like an old vehicle on a freezing morning that takes a longer time to turn on. Older units (typically over 8–10 years old) have to work even harder in cold weather. This is especially true if there’s sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank.
Over time, minerals can cause settle at the bottom of the tank, creating a layer that blocks heat transfer. This makes it harder for your unit to heat water efficiently, causing even longer wait times in winter.
How to Flush Your Water Heater
An annual flush can help improve performance. Here’s a simple breakdown of the processes involved:
- Turn off the heater and let it cool.
- Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
- Open the valve and let the water drain into a safe area.
- Once empty, close the valve and refill the tank.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, call a professional.
The Tank vs. Tankless Debate
Winter performance issues are more common with traditional tank water heaters. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, heats water on demand. This means they don’t experience the same heat loss and tank issues as tanks do.
However, even tankless units can struggle in extreme cold. If the incoming water is too cold, it can take longer to reach the desired temperature, reducing the overall flow rate.
A plumbing specialist notes, “Tankless water heaters are great for energy efficiency, but in freezing weather, they can sometimes struggle to deliver hot water at the same rate. Insulating pipes and using recirculation systems can help.”
Signs It’s Time for a Replacement
If your water heater isn’t just slow but outright failing, replacement might be your best option. Here are some warning signs:
- Your unit is over 10 years old: Efficiency declines significantly with age.
- You see rusty or discolored water: This can indicate corrosion inside the tank.
- Water isn’t heating no matter what you do: This may mean that your heater may be at the end of its lifespan.
The Cost of Ignoring Water Heater Issues
Water heater issues can lead to bigger problems. You are at risk of experiencing overheating, causing pressure buildup and potential leaks. A failing unit can also cause major water damage or drive up energy bills.
Real-Life Homeowner Experience: One homeowner on a plumbing forum shared how their heater completely failed during a cold snap. They ignored the early warning signs, and the unit eventually burst, flooding their basement.
When to Call a Professional
If troubleshooting hasn’t improved your water heater’s performance, it’s time to call in an expert from a reputable plumbing company. A professional can:
- Inspect your system for damage or inefficiency.
- Flush and maintain your unit if needed.
- Recommend upgrades if your heater is outdated.
There’s no need to suffer through cold showers in the winter. By understanding why your heater struggles in colder months, maintaining your unit, and knowing when to call a plumbing professional, you can keep your home comfortable, regardless of season.
