Frequently Asked Questions

The new standard temperature that manufacturers use when pre-setting your hot water heater at the factory is typically 120°F. This is a sufficient temperature for most households. If you have an older model, you can set the thermostat at medium. Gas models usually have a dial on the front of the gas valve. Electric models have thermostats (there may be two) that are concealed behind the two panels on the side of the tank. You can adjust the temperature to meet your needs. Keep in mind that hot water also helps in minimizing the growth of bacteria. NOTE: Turn off the electricity to the water heater before performing any personal maintenance. There can be exposed wires behind the panels that may result in extreme shock.

Rumbling sounds can be an indication that sediment has built up on the bottom of the water heater. Water can become trapped in this sediment and begin to boil. This means the water heater is not operating efficiently and the sediment isn’t allowing the heat to transfer to the water in the tank. You may try draining a few gallons of water off the bottom of the water heater tank. This is done by attaching a drain hose to the valve at the bottom of the tank. Allow it to drain for about five minutes. 

Many newer models of water heaters have a new feature that prohibits the buildup of sediment in the tank. If your heater is an older model, it may be cost effective to replace the water heater if the buildup is severe.  WARNING: Hot water is dangerous. Discharge the water into a floor drain, laundry tub or bathtub. Hot water will kill your grass if allowed to run on your lawn and will also crack a toilet bowl if discharged into the toilet. Turn off power to water heater prior to draining.

We believe in a collaborative approach to renovation, and your input is invaluable every step of the way. From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, we'll work closely with you to ensure that your vision is realized.

Yes, you should test the pressure relief valve regularly and replace it if it fails to operate. At least once a year you should flush out the sediments. As long as a tank has a functioning anode, it should not rust. Therefore you should have the anode checked, by a Plumbing professional about once every two years.

Do-it-yourself projects have become much more popular in recent years because of tutorials on YouTube and all of the other easily accessible information online. While many DIY projects will leave you with a sense of pride and accomplishment and a few extra dollars in your pocket, there are some household projects that can leave you with a huge mess, costly water damage, a completely destroyed house, or the need for emergency services. Learn from the mistakes of other adventurous do-it-yourselfers, and give  Scioletti Plumbing a call for plumbing service if you need any of the following.

Gas Line Replacement or Gas Line Installation: An improperly installed gas line could lead to a dangerous leak. We can ensure that your gas line is installed correctly so that you can avoid a gas leak emergency at your home.

Water Heater Repair: Many times a homeowner thinks he has repaired his water heater, only to find that the problem still exists or has gotten worse. The slightest improper tinkering can end up causing further damage, so it is wise to call an experienced plumber for this job. Did you know that many manufacture warranties are void if repairs or installation are not performed by a certified plumber? It’s true!

Bathroom Remodeling: Only a certified plumber will be able to make sure required permits are obtained and that the bathroom is built up to code. Furthermore, bathroom remodels are big investments, and your plumber can make sure that the bathroom will not only look great, but also function properly for years to come.

Frozen Plumbing Pipes: The DIY methods for thawing plumbing pipes are almost always either dangerous or ineffective. Don’t burn your house down; don’t waste hours of your life; just call Scioletti Plumbing for fast, friendly plumbing service.

 We hope to provide our valued customers with the excellent plumbing services that will save them from DIY disasters! If you’re not absolutely confident in the plumbing project you’re taking on, don’t hesitate to call! 774-810-0292

Did you know that taking hot showers comes with health benefits? Improved blood flow, relief from aching joints, and better sleep are just a few of the positive effects. (Not to mention, they’re relaxing!) It’s no wonder so many people look forward to a long, hot shower at the end of the day.

So, if you notice your shower water temperature is suddenly on the frigid side, it can be pretty concerning. A blast of ice-cold water isn’t just a shock to your system but also a shock to your wallet if the issue isn’t identified. It could be something as simple as a temperature adjustment, or something bigger — mainly, your water heater.

If those cold showers have you shivering at the thought of taking another one, fear not! We’re here to help you diagnose the problem and find a solution.

Here are some of the most common reasons your shower water is cold (and why plumbing services may be needed):

Your Water Heater Is Maxed Out

The simplest explanation? Your water heater has hit its capacity. If you have a larger family, the amount of shower time, dishwasher cycles, and laundry loads push your hot water to the limit. It’s easy to turn on the faucet or start the washing machine, but how often do you think about the amount of water that’s being used?

Here is an average daily breakdown for a household:

Shower: 27 gallons

Dishwasher: 2 gallons

Faucet: 27 gallons

Washing Machine: 22 gallons

If hot water is the primary source for each, that’s a lot of work for your water heater! There are ways to decrease the amount of hot water used, such as washing your clothes with cold water, reducing shower time, and paying more attention to how long the faucet runs (especially while brushing your teeth).

Of course, it may also be time for an upgrade to a larger capacity water heater. A small tank heater might not be big enough to keep up with your family’s water habits. Having a new tank installed by a plumber is the best way to ensure it functions properly to avoid future issues.

There’s Sediment Buildup in Your Water Heater

Over time, naturally-occurring minerals (like calcium and magnesium) buildup in your water heater. Too much sediment buildup can lead to an array of problems, including a lack of hot water. The sediment impacts the tank’s capacity to hold hot water, so it’s imperative to perform regular cleaning maintenance.

Too much of a buildup can lead to more severe issues, such as a clogged drain valve, blocked water lines, or even tank failure. Older water heaters are more prone to sediment buildup, especially if there hasn’t been proper upkeep.

If you hear popping or cracking noises from your water heater, it may be a sign of significant buildup. Having your water heater flushed by a professional can help get you back on track to hotter showers.

There’s a Problem With the Shower Mixing Valve

If you’re sure there isn’t an issue with the water heater, the issue could lie in the shower valve. The valve’s limit-stop may need adjusting, which controls the maximum temperature of the shower water.

Additionally, the mixing valve may need fixing. The mixing valve helps control the temperature by mixing hot and cold water during your shower. If one or both of the mixing controls are broken or worn out, they will need to be prepared by a professional plumber.

The Hot Water Temperature Needs Adjusting

If your shower seems to take a frigid turn pretty quickly, you may need to adjust the temperature of your water heater.

The recommended temperature for hot water is 120 degrees Fahrenheit with a maximum of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because, at 150 degrees Fahrenheit, it only takes around two seconds to suffer third-degree burns, which is especially alarming if there are children in the household.

That said, every home is different, so you’ll need to find the temperature that works best for your family. (Just remember to test out the water each time you adjust.)

A Broken Dip Tube

Your water heater contains a line that adds cold water to the tank, called the dip tube. It sends the cold water to the bottom of the tank, allowing the warmer water to rise to the top and flow to your faucets and other appliances.

Over time, cracks, fractures can appear on the dip tube. This causes it to break into pieces and eventually get flushed out of the water heater. If the dip tube is broken or missing, it can significantly affect the water temperature. Basically, the cold water that is supposed to sit at the bottom of the tank is sent to the top, which then reaches the faucets and appliances before the hot water.

Dip tube issues are especially common in older water heaters, so repair or replacement might be necessary to fix the issue.

Is It Time for a New Water Heater?

The average lifespan for a traditional water heater is around eight to twelve years, while a tankless heater can last up to twenty years. Of course, proper maintenance is necessary to ensure they stay functioning.

So, is it time to invest in a new one? Besides the obvious reason — you need a larger tank for your hot water use — here are a few other signs you might need to start planning for an upgrade:

Strange noises coming from the tank, such as banging, rumbling, or cracking (just assume any unusual noise should be checked out)

There is water pooling around the bottom of the tank — water heater leaks should be examined immediately by a licensed plumber.

Water discoloration, especially if it is red or yellow, since it could be a sign of rust

Is Your Shower Water Cold? We Can Fix It!

When your shower water is cold, and you’re not sure why, we can help. 

If you’re looking for a Cape Cod plumber, we provide the plumbing services you need to get your hot water back. From water heater installation and repair to drain cleaning, we ensure your plumbing issues are completed quickly, safely, and professionally.

Contact us today and let us help you get your hot water back!