Water Heater Recovery Time: Hot Water Takes Too Long

Hot Water Takes Too Long

When you lead a busy lifestyle, you want hot water fast. If your hot water heater has a slow recovery time, however, simple tasks like taking a shower or doing the dishes can take much longer because you have to wait for the hot water to heat up. While you’re waiting, you’re wasting water! Additionally, lukewarm dishwater or water in a dishwasher can spread pathogens. Here’s what you need to know about water heater recovery time and how you can improve or upgrade your slow water heater.

What is Water Heater Recovery Time?

Water heater recovery refers to how long it takes a water heater to heat up the full tank supply after hot water has been used. Different types and sizes of water heaters have different recovery times. Gas water heaters can reheat water twice as fast as electric ones, so you might consider upgrading if your electric water heater just isn’t cutting it. If you have a 40-gallon water heater and more than one bathroom (or a household larger than two people), you might want to get a bigger water heater: 50-gallon or 80-gallon heaters are better at recovering and delivering hot water when you need it, especially in multiple-bathroom households.

If a new water heater just doesn't fit into your budget, you can consider other options.

Improve Water Heating Speed Without Getting a New Unit

Get a point-of-use water heater for your sink. This is usually a four-gallon appliance that you install in the cupboard under your kitchen sink. It keeps four gallons hot at all times so you don’t have to pull from your main water heater for something as quick and simple as doing the dishes or putting the kettle on.

Upgrade your pump to a hot water recirculating pump. If you have older plumbing, or if there are long distances between your hot water faucets and the water heater, you might need one of these affordable pumps. They can be installed on existing piping, and they work by looping water in hot water pipes back into the heater so you waste less water while waiting for the heat.

Insulate your pipes and water heater if you haven’t already. Reducing energy loss through pipes and the water heater unit will make for a more efficient heating process. Mr. Rooter Plumbing can insulate your unit and pipes with the latest appliance insulation materials.

Should You Consider a Tankless Water Heater?

If you have some extra funds to spend initially, a tankless water heater can save you more money in the long run. These water heaters heat water quickly as needed, and they can be up to 35 percent more energy efficient than a traditional water heater. They also typically have more longevity than traditional water heaters, and they are small and discreet, making them ideal for smaller homes.

Water heater recovery time can be complicated and depends on many factors, especially in older homes. If you're still unsure of how to proceed to get the hot water faster, or if you're ready to install a new water heater or other solution. Contact your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing to assess your water heating issues and help you find the best and most cost-effective way forward.