Hot water problem. Help!
We recently bought an apt, top two floors of a Brownstone and noticed last night that the hot water in the bathroom runs hot for 10 seconds or so then runs cold. If I try it again a few minutes later the same thing happens. Hot, then cold. Had to do this a dozen times…
We recently bought an apt, top two floors of a Brownstone and noticed last night that the hot water in the bathroom runs hot for 10 seconds or so then runs cold. If I try it again a few minutes later the same thing happens. Hot, then cold. Had to do this a dozen times last night just to have a bath!
The previous owners had a brand new boiler installed recently, but I believe the hot water heater is around 10 years old.
Any advice much appreciated 🙂
Thanks!
P.S If the problem is the HW heater, how much does it cost to replace it?
Sorry for the late post on this and I’m sure someone has looked at the heater alread, but in case not…..don’t forget about the dip tube!!!! Common symptom is hot water for a short while and then luke warm and then cold. As the new water enters from the top, it doesn’t make it’s way to the bottom for heating if the dip tube is broken off. The cold water comes in and goes right out. May not be, but something to look at.
It doesn’t sound like your water heater at all, unless you’ve got some kind of tankless system. It sounds like a cross connection: cold water getting into your hot water piping.
Me:
http://www.GatewayPlumbing.com
try to clean heater: find went on the side and let some water out. be sure not to get scolded.
Thanks!
I agree with tinarina, John Hlad does really good plumbing work 718-768-0689.
John Hlad and Gateway are the two most consistently recommended plumbers on this site. We use Hlad and are very pleased.
Thanks all! Professional plumber it is then 🙂 Any recommendations?
Could be a failing hot water heater, but could also be a bigger problem with the plumbing. My recommendation: consult a professional.
Sad to say, but the life of the average water heater is ten years or so. I would have a plumber take a look–maybe it just needs some adjustments, or it might be time for a new one.