When you step into your shower, you want to feel the hot water hit you, especially during the winter months. No one wants to take a lukewarm shower in the winter. But, when your water heater isn't performing as it should, your water may not be getting as hot as you would like. Here are a few of the reasons why your water heater may not be working as well as it should.

A Failed Heating Element

Most electric water heaters have two heating elements in them. These heating elements work in conjunction with one another to keep your water as hot as you would like. In most cases, only one heating element burns out. It is rare that both burn out at the same time. When the heating element goes out, you will notice that your water is warm, but not hot. This is a sign that one of the heating elements needs to be replaced. If you fail to replace it and then your other one burns out, you will be left with cold water. 

A Faulty Gas Control Valve

If you have a gas water heater, your gas control valve may be faulty if you notice the water is not heating up. If this is the case, you should head down to where your water heater is and smell. If the area smells like rotten eggs or old garbage, the valve is indeed faulty. Unfortunately, because of this, you now have a gas leak. Shut off your gas and get help with the issue immediately to keep yourself, your family and your home safe. 

A Defective Dip Tube

The final reason why you may not be getting enough hot water is because of a defective or broken dip tube. The dip tube takes cold water and places it next to the heating element where it can be heated. But if the tube is cracked or broken, cold water can leak out, mixing your hot and cold water. This creates only warm water. A defective dip tube can be pricey to replace, but it does need to happen if you are not getting water that is as hot as you would like. 

It can be frustrating if your water heater is not heating water hot enough during the winter months. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why this could be happening, and all of them require the help of a professional. If your water heater in Central Ohio is not heating water up as hot as you would like, Amanda Plumbing Sewer & Drain can take a look, diagnose the problem and repair it. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for us to come out and have a look.