While doing the dishes I noticed the water gets quite a bit hotter than it used to get. We usually have the water running for more than 30 minutes because I let the pile of dishes get huge. The water heater is a 40 gallon tank and I think it's from 2006. The temperature setting is close to the low end so the water never got more than really warm until recently.

We recently started using our furnace because the cold season is creeping in. Not sure if that could play a factor...

Thanks in advance for any suggestions

I have experienced super heating of hot water when the elements are starting to fail.
Just what's happened to me.

If they can see the thermostat, it is probably a gas water heater. (and don't anyone ask what "gas water" is or how do you heat it.)



Edited 1 times.

Hj: It is a gas water heater, but I'm not picking up on your last comment?

Also, would draining the tank to get out sediment help the tank last a little longer or is it unlikely to help?

Thanks

The gas water comment was directed to the resident smartasses on the forum. This is a decent read on sediment buildup [www.waterheaterrescue.com] and yes, you should drain the sediment out of the tank. For safety sake turn it to the pilot setting a couple hours before you start if it is possible.

Go pick up a brass hose cap before you start draining the tank. The drain valve may leak after you're done.

Depending on exactly WHY the temperature changed, draining would probably NOT make any differences. My comment was to "cut off" those who try to be pedantic and say "why do you need a HOT water heater since it starts out as a cold water heater?" That same person migt jump on my juxtapositioning "gas" and heater" to ask "what is gas water' and how do you heat it?"