No one likes standing buck-naked in a cold bathroom waiting for the shower to get hot enough to jump in. You’re fed up with shivering and wondering, “Why does my hot water take so long to heat up?”

Once you know the reason, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do about it.

It’s In the Pipes

Sometimes, your hot water pipes can be the reason it takes so long to get hot water. If your shower is across the house from the water heater, it can take longer to get there.

Other piping issues include the size of the piping and the water pressure. And the larger your home, the worse the problem will be.

All of the cold water in the pipes has to be flushed out before the hot water gets to the showerhead or faucet.

Water Saving Devices

Volume restricting valves on water-saving fixtures can also delay the delivery of hot water. Because they restrict the flow of water, it takes longer for the cold water to empty from the pipes.

All Used Up

If the water heater tank has been emptied already from previous use, you may wonder how long it will take to heat up more water.

Depending on the size of the tank and the heat source, it can take from 30 minutes to an hour and 20 minutes to heat up another 40-gallon tank of water.

The colder the outdoor temperature, the longer it will take to heat the water up to the set temperature.

Water Heater Failure

Finally, your water heater may be the reason you’re not getting hot water.

Electric water heaters may have a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. There may be clogged flame sensor on your gas water heater.

Your water heater may also be on its last legs — sediment buildup, burnt out heating elements, rust, and a faulty thermostat may be the cause.

How to Get More Hot Water Fast

There are a few things you can do to get more hot water, faster.

Recirculation system

A recirculating hot water system provides a closed loop of hot water from the heater that delivers it closer to where it’s used.

Tankless water heaters

Tankless water heaters are making a big splash in the residential market. These small, point-of-use water heaters are installed just where you need them to deliver hot water almost immediately.

Make a Plan

Before planning any upgrades or spending money on a new water heater, make sure your current model is functioning properly. Have it serviced by a professional. An annual checkup and flush will ensure it isn’t just a faulty heating element or sediment buildup causing the hot water shortage.

Make an appointment today with your local plumbing pros at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Pleasantville. They can perform an annual checkup on your water heater and offer suggestions on improving its performance.