If you’re running out of hot water faster than you’d like, it could be that your hot water tank is too small for your needs. We get it—it’s one of those little annoyances that can make your daily routine a bit of a struggle. And while it might not seem like a big deal at first, having a hot water tank that’s too small can really get in the way, especially during peak times like morning showers or when you have guests over. So, what do you do when your hot water tank just doesn’t cut it anymore? Let’s break it down.
Why size matters for your hot water tank
The size of your hot water tank directly impacts how much hot water you have at any given time. A small tank means less hot water. It’s simple math. If your family has grown or your hot water needs have increased for any reason (maybe you’ve added a dishwasher or washing machine), your hot water cylinder might not be able to keep up. When your tank’s too small, you’ll find yourself running out of hot water pretty quickly, which can get frustrating fast.
Here’s a scenario: you’ve got a family of four, everyone takes a shower in the morning, and the hot water is gone before the last person even steps in. That’s a sign your hot water tank might be too small.
Signs your hot water tank is too small
So, how do you know if your hot water tank is too small? Here are some common signs: You start off with hot water, but it quickly turns cold before you’re done. This happens more often when multiple people need to use hot water around the same time.
Also, if it feels like your hot water tank is taking forever to heat back up after it’s been used, it could be because it’s undersized. A bigger tank can handle more water, meaning quicker recovery times.
Furthermore, a hot water tank that’s too small will constantly be working to heat water. This could lead to higher energy bills, as the system is overworked to keep up with demand.
And if you notice you’re running out of hot water more frequently in the morning or evening when everyone’s using it, that’s a telltale sign your hot water tank isn’t large enough.
How big should my hot water tank be?
The size of your hot water tank depends on a few factors, mainly how many people are in your home and how much hot water you typically use. For instance, a household of two might get away with a smaller tank, say 125 litres, while a family of four or more will probably need something bigger, around 250-315 litres.
You should also think about how you use hot water. Do you take long showers? Use a dishwasher? Do laundry frequently? All these activities require hot water, and a small hot water cylinder just might not cut it. If your household uses more than average, it’s worth considering upsizing your tank.
How to fix the problem
If your hot water tank is too small, there are a couple of options to fix the issue. You could either upgrade to a bigger hot water tank or consider a tankless system, which heats water on demand rather than storing it. Here’s a look at both options:
Upgrade to a bigger hot water tank. This is the simplest fix. By getting a larger hot water tank, you’ll be able to store more hot water, so you won’t run out as quickly. It’s a good idea to get a tank that can handle your peak usage periods, especially if you’ve got a large family or tend to use hot water all at once.
Consider a tankless hot water system. A tankless system (also known as an on-demand system) heats water as you need it, rather than storing it in a tank. This means you’ll never technically “run out” of hot water, as long as the system can keep up with demand. It’s a great option if you don’t have space for a larger hot water tank or if you’re looking to cut down on energy costs.
What if I can’t upgrade my tank?
Sometimes upgrading your hot water tank isn’t possible—maybe due to space, budget, or other reasons. In that case, here are a few ways you can manage the hot water you do have.
Stagger hot water usage. If everyone in the house is using hot water at the same time, your small hot water tank won’t be able to keep up. Try to stagger showers, laundry, and dishwashing throughout the day to spread out hot water use.
If you lower the temperature on your hot water tank, you can stretch out the amount of hot water available. Just be sure to keep it at a safe temperature to avoid scalding.
Adding insulation can help reduce heat loss from your hot water tank, making it more efficient and allowing the water to stay hotter for longer.
Call Local Plumber and Hot Water Specialist
If you’re dealing with a hot water tank that’s too small, it’s best to consult a professional to find the right solution for your home. At Local Plumber and Hot Water Specialist, we’re here to help with your hot water system. Based in Illawarra, we offer everything from tank upgrades to full system installations. We can also help you figure out the best size for your hot water tank based on your household’s needs.
Don’t keep dealing with a small hot water cylinder that can’t keep up. Give us a call, and we’ll get you sorted with the right system for your home. We’re always happy to answer any questions and offer advice on how to make the most out of your hot water.
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