Lower level in water heater?

[jbolty]

I seem to be running out of hot water sooner than I used to and it started all at once. I remember years ago someone told me that the head of air in the tank would get too big and allow for less water capacity. But, that could be BS.

[tired-medic]

sounds more like you have an element out. If the lower element is out then you will lose hot water capacity.

[jbolty]

Originally Posted by tired-medic

sounds more like you have an element out. If the lower element is out then you will lose hot water capacity.

Gas, sorry did not mention that.

[majakdragon]

There should not be a "head of air' in the tank. The water should push out any air. More likely the dip tube is broken. The dip tube is a plastic tube on the cold water inlet side of the tank that takes cold water to the bottom of the tank which, in turn, pushes the hot water out. When the tube breaks, the cold water immediately mixes with the hot water you have stored in the tank and causes a "cross connection" where the cold goes straight out the hot outlet instead of mixing with the hot water. In the newer tanks, they are installing back flow preventer fittings and you cannot see or access the dip tube. On the older tanks, you can see and pull out the dip tube with your finger as it just sits in the opening. A few years ago, there was a problem with the plastic being used for these tubes and they disintegrating within a couple years. Lawsuits abounded.

[jbolty]

Thanks, prob 5 or so years old. Is that considered older or newer?

cheers

[majakdragon]

No, that is fairly new. Still could have gotten broke or cracked earlier and just lately bit the dust.