There’s nothing worse than stepping into a warm shower, only to be hit with a blast of cold water halfway through. If your hot water runs out faster than it used to, there’s a reason — and most of the time, it’s fixable.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most common causes of hot water shortages, quick checks you can do, and when it’s time to call a plumber.
1. Your Hot Water System Is Too Small
If your household has grown, or your usage has increased, your current unit may no longer keep up with demand.
- Storage units can only hold so much — once the tank’s empty, you wait for it to heat again.
- Continuous flow systems should deliver on-demand, but if they’re undersized, the water won’t stay hot for long.
If it’s time to upgrade, we can recommend and install the right system in our hot water systems service.
2. Sediment Build-Up in Your Tank
Over time, minerals from your water supply can settle at the bottom of your hot water tank.
This:
- Reduces heating efficiency
- Shrinks the tank’s usable capacity
- Increases energy costs
A professional flush can restore performance and extend the life of your system.
3. Faulty Thermostat or Heating Element
If your unit’s thermostat is malfunctioning or the heating element is failing, your water won’t get hot enough — or won’t stay hot long.
These parts can often be replaced without needing a full system upgrade.
4. Hot Water Leaks
Even small leaks in the hot water line can cause you to run out faster.
If your water pressure has also dropped, it could be a sign of a hidden leak.
Our leak detection service can pinpoint and repair it quickly.
5. Plumbing Issues in the Home
Cross-connections, faulty tempering valves, or old pipework can all cause temperature fluctuations and reduce hot water availability.
A licensed plumber can test your system and recommend the most cost-effective fix.
Quick Checks You Can Do
- Run only one hot water appliance at a time to see if the issue improves.
- Listen for popping or rumbling sounds from your tank — a sign of sediment.
- Check if the issue happens with both hot taps and showers.
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried the basics and still run out of hot water quickly, it’s time to get an expert in.
At ASAP Trades, we repair, service, and replace all major hot water systems, with same-day service available for urgent jobs.
Final Word
Running out of hot water doesn’t have to be your new normal.
Whether it’s a quick repair, a system service, or a full replacement, we’ll make sure you can enjoy a hot shower from start to finish.
