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Why Is the Kitchen Sink Not Getting Hot Water?

Plumber fixing a kitchen sink that is not getting hot water

Hot water at the kitchen sink is essential for washing dishes, running the dishwasher, and cleaning. When there is no hot water coming out of the faucet, it can be frustrating. However, knowing why hot water is not coming out of the faucet and how to troubleshoot this problem will make it easier and let you know when you need to call a plumber for help.

Why Is My Hot Water Not Working at the Kitchen Sink?

The Hot Water Is Turned Off

You will not get hot water from the kitchen faucet if the hot water is turned off. Check underneath the sink to verify the hot water valve supplying hot water to the faucet is open. If it is closed or partially open, ensure you open the valve all the way.

There Is a Blockage

If there is a blockage between the water heater and kitchen faucet, it can stop the flow of hot water. Turn off the cold water faucet valve under the sink and verify the hot water is turned on. Turn on the faucet. If no water comes out, you have a blockage and should call your plumber.

Low Water Pressure

If there is a low water pressure problem, it can prevent the flow of hot water. So, it will seem like you are not getting sufficient output at the faucet. Verify if the problem is just in the kitchen or with other faucets in the house. Once you know which faucets are having problems, call your plumber to help pinpoint where the water pressure drops.

Water Heater Turned Off or Thermostat Turned Down

Most modern water heater installations have a secondary switch that can sometimes get shut off. If the switch is off, the heater won’t make hot water. In addition, you should check the thermostat on the front of the heater to verify it is set correctly—between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Broken or Malfunctioning Water Heater

Malfunctioning water heater

Various parts and components of the water heater could be broken or malfunctioning, such as heating elements. Check to see if you get hot water at any other faucets in the house. If not, you will want your plumber to diagnose the problem further.

Why Does It Take So Long for Water to Get Hot at the Kitchen Sink?

It can seem like it takes a long time for water to get hot at the kitchen sink for several reasons. For starters, when you turn on the hot water, there is already existing water in the line between the heat and the faucet.

So, all this water has to be moved before the hot water from the tank reaches the faucet. Next, the distance between the water heater and the kitchen sink determines how long it takes before you will get hot water.

Last, the outdoor temperatures influence how long it takes to get hot water to the faucet. Your crawl space or basement will be much colder in the winter. Even with insulated pipes, the colder temperatures will still lower water temperatures in the hot water supply lines. As a result, it takes longer to flush out the cold water.

How Can I Get Hot Water Faster?

  • Turn Up the Thermostat: You can turn the thermostat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit to help get hot water faster.
  • Increase Insulation on Hot Water Pipes: Adding additional insulation can help retain more heat, providing hot water faster.
  • Install an Under-Sink Water Heater: A tankless under-sink water heater provides nearly instant hot water.

Benefits of Getting Help from a Professional Plumber

Plumber diagnosing a kitchen sink issue with a customer

When hot water is not coming out the faucet, getting help from a professional plumber provides you with several benefits, including:

  • Professional Diagnosis: A professional plumber can diagnose the root cause of why your kitchen sink is not getting hot water and provide a long-term solution for it.
  • Quality Parts & Service: Professional plumbing services use quality parts to ensure that any repairs or installations are done correctly, safely, and efficiently. This ensures that all plumbing issues are resolved properly without further problems arising later on down the line.
  • Guaranteed Workmanship: Most professional plumbing services offer a guarantee on their workmanship. You’ll know that if something goes wrong during or after the repair/installation process, it will be fixed at no extra cost to you.
  • Cost Savings: Hiring a professional plumber may save you money in the long run due to their expertise and knowledge of what needs to be done.
  • Preventative Maintenance: They may uncover other potential future problems while working on your issue, which could help prevent costly repairs in the future.

Have Hot Water Issues Fixed Today

When you need help determining the cause of no hot water coming out of the faucet, you can count on the experienced plumbers at Christianson Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our San Antonio and Austin plumbers will diagnose the problem, provide viable solutions, and offer advice on ensuring your home has plenty of hot water. Schedule plumbing service by calling 512-246-5400 today.

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