How Long For Water Heater To Heat Water

Water Heater Recovery Heat Up Times Comparison Chart

Recovery of Waste Water from Water Heaters Heat Up Times Compared to One Another Time Required for Water Heater to Come to Temperature There isn’t much that can ruin your day quite as quickly as taking an ice cold shower, and if you have the wrong hot water heater, this might become your new normal very soon. In the event that your current heating unit fails on you, don’t let your stress over the situation lead you to make the wrong choice for a replacement. Prior to selecting a hot water heater, take into consideration how long it will take for the water heater of your choice to heat up completely.

The question is, how long does it take a hot water heater to reheat water once it has been depleted?

Water Heater Type	Time to Heat Back Up
Gas – Conventional Tank	30-45 mins
Gas Tankless	0 mins
Electric – Conventional Tank	60-80 mins
Electric Tankless	0 mins

Water Heaters Powered by Natural Gas Specifications for a Gas Conventional Water Heater Once the water is in the tank, the normal gas tank water heater will take 30 to 40 minutes to heat it up to the desired temperature. When new water from your water supply is fed into the tank, this early heat up occurs as a result of the incoming water. Some mathematical calculations are required to provide a more specific explanation of why this takes 30 minutes. The size of the heater’s tank is obviously important, since more water will take longer to heat than a smaller tank.

1. In simple terms, a BTU is the amount of heat required to elevate one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit in temperature.
2. For example, the typical hot water heating unit tank holds 40 gallons of water.
3. Thirty-five gallons times 8.3 pounds per gallon is 330 pounds of water.
4. For the sake of not having to get into full-blown thermodynamics calculations, we may simplify and say that a 40,000 BTU system with a 40-gallon tank needs half a minute to heat each gallon, which results in a half-hour heat up time.
5. For those with larger tanks or lower BTU ratings, on the other hand, it will take longer to heat their tanks.
6. Likewise, keep in mind that this is the amount of time it takes for new cold water to be heated in your tank, so plan accordingly.

When all of the warm water in the tank has been consumed, the length of time it takes to warm up additional water is taken into consideration. It will be necessary to restart the gas tank water heater at that point in order to heat new water from the entering groundwater temperature level.

A gas tank hot water heater will take roughly 40 minutes to warm up new inbound water for the very first time.

Water Heaters Powered by Gas Exact Specifications for a Gas Conventional Water Heater Once the water is in the tank, the normal gas tank water heater will take 30 to 40 minutes to heat it up. When new water from your water supply is put into the tank, this preliminary heat up occurs, as described above. Mathematical calculations are required for a more specific explanation of why this takes 30 minutes. Naturally, the size of the heater’s tank is an important consideration, since more water will require more time to heat.

• In its most basic form, a BTU is the amount of heat required to elevate one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit in temperature.
• In the case of hot water heating units, the typical tank capacity is 40 gallons.
• Thirty-four gallons times 8.3 pounds per gallon is 330 pounds of water.
• For the sake of not having to get into full-blown thermodynamics calculations, we may simplify and say that a 40,000 BTU system with a 40-gallon tank takes half a minute to heat each gallon, which results in a half-hour heat up time.
• For those with larger tanks or lower BTU ratings, on the other hand, it will take longer to heat up their tanks.
• It’s also important to remember that this is the amount of time it takes for new cold water to be warmed in your storage tank.
• When all of the warm water in the tank has been consumed, the length of time it takes to heat up additional water is taken into consideration.

• Water Heaters that use natural gas Specifications of a Gas Conventional Water Heater Once the water is in the tank, the average gas tank water heater takes 30 to 40 minutes to heat it up. When new water from your water supply is put into the tank, this preliminary heating occurs. A more detailed explanation of why this takes 30 minutes will necessitate the use of mathematics. The size of the heater’s tank is obviously important, because more water will take longer to heat than a smaller tank. The BTU (or British Thermal Unit) rating of the heater is the next important consideration. A BTU is defined as the amount of heat required to elevate one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. A heater with a higher BTU rating may heat water more quickly. In the case of a hot water heating device, the typical tank capacity is 40 gallons. Because there are around 8.3 pounds of water in each gallon, our sample tank has approximately 330 pounds of water to heat. Thirty-five gallons times 8.3 pounds per gallon equals 330 pounds of water If the water is at 60 degrees and you want to bring it up to 120 degrees, you will need to increase the temperature by 60 degrees. To avoid delving into full-blown thermodynamics calculations, we may simplify and assert that a 40,000 BTU system with a 40-gallon tank needs one-half of one minute to heat each gallon, resulting in a half-hour heat up time. Warm-up time for your hot water heating system will be significantly reduced if your tank is smaller in size or has a higher BTU rating. For those with larger tanks or lower BTU ratings, however, it will take longer to heat their tanks. If you want a high-efficiency hot water heater that can warm your water in the period of time you specify (after it has run out of warm water), as well as store a significant volume of hot water, keep the following considerations in mind. Also keep in mind that this is the amount of time it takes for new cold water to be heated in your tank. The first time you turn on the hot water after your tank has been holding warm water for a while, you should get warm water in a matter of minutes because tanks store pre-heated water. It is taken into consideration when all of the warm water in the tank has been used up. That’s when the gas tank water heater will have to start heating new water from the entering groundwater temperature level, which will cost more money.

In conclusion, there is a heater that is suitable for any situation. Consider your requirements before selecting a storage tank, whether traditional or tankless in design. Please remember that South End Plumbing provides all plumbing services and that we are only a mouse click away.

We also specialize in tankless water heaters; please contact us for more information. South End Plumbing is one of the few organizations that will provide you with a no-obligation quote. To book a visit, please call us at 704-919-1722 or complete the online form.

How Long Will It Take a Water Heater to Heat Up?

There are a variety of elements that might influence the recovery time of a water heater, as well as how quickly it heats up. The most important things to think about are as follows:

• Temperature increase
• Energy source for the water heater
• Water heater size
• First hour rating

Before purchasing a new water heater, take the time to conduct thorough research. If having hot water as quickly as possible is essential to you, continue reading to understand how the type of water heater you choose can effect how quickly you will have hot water.

How Long Does It Take for Hot Water to Come Back with Certain Types of Water Heaters?

Time required to heat water varies; it may take as little as a few seconds or as long as 60–80 minutes. Whatever sort of water heater you have will determine how much heat you will receive. Here are some typical heat-up times for different types of water heaters, assuming that the equipment are new and appropriately sized for the home: 1.

• Heater time for an electric storage tank water heater is 60–80 minutes
• Propane heater time is 30–40 minutes
• And propane tankless water heater time is zero minutes.

Keep in mind that these are the lengths of time it takes to heat new cold water that is introduced into the water heater’s storage tank. Storage tank water heaters are self-contained appliances that regularly replenish themselves and heat water for when they are needed. However, if you use up all of the hot water (for example, after a busy morning with many showers), you’ll be kept waiting for additional hot water as your appliance refills from the tank’s empty position. Without a propane tankless water heater, which warms water on demand, it’s possible that you’ll be without hot water during high usage periods.

Conventional Gas Tank Water Heater

When starting with an empty tank, a standard gas tank water heater, such as one fueled by propane, can take up to 30–40 minutes to heat the water to the desired temperature.

Gas Tankless Water Heater

When it comes to households with moderate to high hot water consumption, propane tankless water heaters are a popular choice. When properly sized and placed, they have the ability to quickly heat water on demand, delivering hot water in a matter of seconds when needed.

Conventional Electric Storage Tank Water Heater

One of these appliances might take up to 60–80 minutes to heat water, depending on the model. The use of electricity to heat water is not as efficient as the use of propane, thus it is only a viable choice for small households with low water heating requirements.

Electric Tankless Water Heater

These systems, like propane tankless water heaters, heat water on demand, allowing for quicker supply of hot water than storage tank units. However, they will still take a little longer to heat up than propane does.

Solar Water Heater

The installation of solar panels, which gather energy and may later be used to power a water heater, is a popular choice among homeowners. However, unless you live in a place that receives enough of sunshine throughout the year, you’ll most likely need to supplement the solar system with another water heater that runs on gas or electricity in order to have enough hot water.

Other Factors That Can Affect Water Heater Recovery Time

Aside from the kind of water heater, there are a variety of other elements that might influence how quickly your water heater produces hot water.

• Water heater size: If you regularly find yourself without enough hot water in your home, it is possible that your water heater is too small for your requirements. Be sure to learn about how to size a water heater while you’re researching which water heater is best for your needs. Rating for the first hour: This is the maximum number of gallons of hot water that a unit can deliver each hour, starting with a completely full tank of water. Check the water heater’s manufacturer’s information to ensure that the first-hour rating of the water heater will suit your demands during peak consumption periods. Dimensions of the house: If your water heater is located a great distance away from the appliances or fixtures that require hot water, it may take longer for the hot water to reach those appliances or fixtures as it travels through the pipes. Pipe diameter (inches): Smaller pipes are incapable of transporting as much hot water as larger pipes. The water heater’s age and condition are as follows: Over time, the efficiency of water heaters decreases. Considering that one year for you is equivalent to ten for your water heater, it’s possible that yours is older and less efficient than you believe, and that it’s delivering less hot water than it should be. How long has your water heater been in service?

If Your Water Heater Heats Water Too Slowly

Do you live in a house where you have to wait an inordinate amount of time to receive hot water when you need it? It might be caused by any of the difficulties listed above, or it could be the result of a condition that requires expert treatment.

Consult with a knowledgeable specialist, such as a plumber or a propane provider, about your circumstances to ensure that you have enough hot water to keep yourself comfortable.

Keep Reading More

Do you live in a house where getting hot water when you need it takes an inordinate amount of time? A situation that necessitates professional intervention might be caused by any of the difficulties listed above. Inform a skilled specialist about your condition, such as a plumber or a propane provider, to ensure that you have enough hot water to keep you comfortable.

How Long Does a Water Heater take to Recover?

Do you live in a house where you have to wait an inordinate amount of time to obtain hot water when you want it? It might be caused by any of the difficulties listed above, or it could be caused by a problem that requires expert treatment. Consult with a trained specialist, such as a plumber or a propane provider, about your circumstances to ensure that you have enough hot water to keep you comfortable.

• Recovery timings for a typical water heater
• Key elements that impact recovery times for a typical water heater
• Common difficulties that cause recovery times to be delayed

Is your water heater taking an excessive amount of time to recover? Red Cap PlumbingAir can provide you with a water heater repair that is both rapid and efficient. We promise that our skilled plumbers will arrive on time, and in most situations, we will be able to repair your water heater the same day that we identify the problem!

Average Water Heater Recovery Times

Consider the typical recovery time for a water heater and what is considered a “fast” recovery time for a water heater. You will be able to tell immediately if yours is taking substantially longer than normal. An 80-gallon tank with entering water temperature of 62 degrees, for example, will typically recover in the following amount of time:

• Consider the average recovery time for a water heater and what is considered a “fast” recovery period. If yours is taking substantially longer than normal, you’ll be able to tell immediately. An 80-gallon tank with entering water temperature of 62 degrees, for example, would require an average recovery time of the following:

You’ll notice that gas water heaters can heat your water far more quickly than electric water heaters. It heats water more quickly because gas water heaters employ burners that reach greater temperatures more quickly than the heating coils in electric water heaters, resulting in quicker heating. Having said that, they are only fast averages for comparative purposes. Several important elements, which we’ll explore next, influence the recovery time of your individual water heater, resulting in a recovery rate that may be greater or lower than the national average.

Key Factors That Influence Water Heater Recovery Times

Compared to electric water heaters, gas water heaters heat water significantly more quickly. It heats water more quickly because gas water heaters employ burners that reach greater temperatures more quickly than electric water heaters’ heating coils do. As a disclaimer, these are only fast averages for the purpose of comparison. In addition to many important considerations, which we’ll explore next, your unique water heater’s recovery time may be greater or lower than the national average as a result of these factors.

1. Tank size

The tank size and First Hour rating of your water heater may be found on the Energy Guide label on the appliance. / Source: Federal Register In general, the higher the tank capacity of your water heater, the longer it will take for it to recover. The majority of home water heater tanks have a capacity of 20 to 100 gallons or more. If your water heater is on the bigger side, it will take longer for the burners or heating elements to get the water up to the desired temperature.

Furthermore, as your tank is nearing the end of its supply, recuperation durations for larger tanks become considerably longer. As additional cold water is introduced into the tank, the temperature of the current hot water in the tank will be significantly reduced.

2. First hour rating

The “first hour rating” of any tank water heater is based on the fact that the tank is continually renewing its water supply. This rating informs you how many gallons of water the unit can supply in one hour when it starts with a full tank of hot water. The first hour ratings are based on a variety of criteria, including your heating source, burner size, and others. In general, though, the higher your first-hour rating, the faster you may anticipate your water heater to recover from the damage it has sustained.

Examine the label on your water heater that says “Energy Guide.”

3. Fuel type

The “first hour rating” of any tank water heater is based on the fact that the tank is continually renewing its water supply. This rating informs you how many gallons of water the unit can supply in one hour when it starts with a full tank of heated water. Important elements such as your heating source, burner size, and other considerations influence your first-hour ratings. However, as a general rule, the higher your water heater’s first-hour rating, the faster you should anticipate it to recover.

Verify that your water heater is labeled with the Energy Guide rating.

4. Temperature rise

The temperature rise is influenced by the hot water temperature you like. The temperature of the water in your location will vary depending on where you live and what kind of climate you have. As a result, while estimating the recovery of your water heater, it is critical to account for “temperature rise.” The difference between the temperature of the entering water and the temperature you want your water to be is referred to as the temperature increase. The greater the disparity between the two, the longer it will take for the water heater to recover.

If you are a homeowner in the Tampa region, you should know the following:

• It is estimated that your incoming water temperature will be around 72 degrees
• Your targeted hot water temperature is 120 degrees
• And

It is estimated that your incoming water temperature will be around 72 degrees; your ideal hot water temperature is 120 degrees.

• The temperature of the entering water is around 47 degrees
• Use the same intended water temperature of 120 degrees for the remainder of this discussion.

According to our calculations, the temperature would climb by 73 degrees Fahrenheit. When compared to the Tampa example, this is nearly a twofold increase in temperature, which means the New Hampshire homeowner’s water heater will have to work twice as hard to heat their water as before.

Common Problems That Slow Down Recovery Time

When sediment accumulates at the bottom of your water heater, contact a plumber to have it flushed thoroughly. / Image courtesy of St. Cloud State University Even if you have the most energy-efficient water heater available, you may still experience difficulties that cause the heater to take longer to recover from. The following are examples of common issues:

Sediment buildup:

It is caused by the dissolved minerals in your water (calcium and magnesium) settling to the bottom of your water heater, which is known as sediment building.

Over time, this results in the formation of a thick, crusted coating that might impair the ability of your water heater to heat water.

Broken dip tube:

The dip tube is a component of a water heater that directs incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank where it may be heated. In the event that the dip tube fails, incoming cold water will mix with hot water, lowering the total temperature of the water.

Worn heating elements:

Water heater components such as the dip tube force incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank, where it may be heated. A ruptured dip tube causes cold water to mingle with warm water, lowering the total temperature of your drinking water.

Incorrect sizing:

The dip tube is a component of a water heater that directs incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank where it is heated. If the dip tube fails, incoming cold water will mix with hot water, lowering the total temperature of the water in your system.

Water Heater Taking Too Long To Recover? Call Red Cap PlumbingAir.

Red Cap plumbers are standing by to assist you in getting hot water more quickly. Simply contact Red Cap for a water heater repair if you believe your water heater recovery time is too short or if you aren’t sure. We will inspect your water heater, diagnose the problem, and resolve it in a short period of time. If your water heater is running too slowly for your liking and you’d want to upgrade, we’ll provide suggestions for a tank water heater, a tankless water heater, or a solar water heater that will fit your budget and meet your hot water requirements.

How Long Does It Take for a Water Heater to Heat Up?

Whenever you need hot water, our Red Cap plumbers are standing by to assist. Please call Red Cap for a water heater repair if you believe your water heater recovery time is too short or if you are not sure. We will inspect your water heater, determine the problem, and resolve it as quickly as possible. Our recommendations for a tank water heater, tankless water heater, or solar water heater that matches your budget and hot water demands will be provided if your water heater is too sluggish for your liking and you’d want to update.

Jump to:

• Approximately how long does it take for a gas water heater to come to temperature. Is it possible to tell how long it takes an electric water heater to heat up
• What factors influence heating time

Request a Quote Plumbers in your area can be found here. To assist you in locating local plumbers in your region, we have teamed with Networx. To receive a no-obligation estimate, please complete the form below. Find a Plumber in your area. We may receive a commission if you click on this link, but there is no additional cost to you.

How Long Does It Take for a Water Heater to Heat Up?

A storage water heater (one with a tank) requires some time to heat up the water in the tank before it is ready to use. When it comes to water heaters, though, how long does it take for them to heat up? You should be aware of this whether you have recently installed a new water heater or simply want to determine whether your current water heater is operating as it should. After filling the tank, you should be able to anticipate hot water within 30 minutes (gas) to around an hour and 20 minutes (electric) after doing so.

However, there are a few things at play in this situation. The size of your water heater, the power source, the First-Hour Delivery rate, and the recovery rate are all factors that influence how long you’ll have to wait for hot water. Read on for the next section:Gas versus Electric Water Heaters

How Long Does It Take a Gas Water Heater to Heat Up?

A gas water heater is more energy efficient and can heat water more quickly than an electric water heater. With strong burners located at the bottom of the tank, they use natural gas as a fuel to heat the water stored in the tank. The temperature at which a gas water heater is set, as well as the temperature of the cold water that it must heat, determine how quickly it can heat water. Here are several averages to consider:

• Gas water heaters with capacities of 40 and 50 gallons take 30-45 minutes, while 80-gallon gas water heaters take 60-70 minutes to heat.

The average gas water heater holds around 40 gallons of water and takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes to heat water from 40 degrees to 120 degrees. It will take around 40 to 50 minutes to heat up a 50-gallon unit. It takes around 60 to 70 minutes for a big 80-gallon gas water heater to reach operating temperature. Of course, this is only a rough estimate, and actual costs may vary depending on the age and model of the vehicle.

How Long Does It Take an Electric Water Heater to Heat Up?

Electric water heaters require more time to heat up than gas water heaters. To heat the water, these machines make use of electrical heating components that are submerged within the tank. They require almost double the time to heat up. The amount of time it takes is affected by the wattage of the heating element and the temperature that has been set on the water heater. Here are some averages, on the other hand:

• 40-gallon electric water heaters take 60-80 minutes to heat water
• 50-gallon electric water heaters take 145-150 minutes to heat water
• 80-gallon electric water heaters take 120-130 minutes to heat water.

If you have a 40-gallon electric water heater that uses 5500 watts and is set to 120 degrees, it will take around an hour to an hour and 20 minutes to heat the water. It will take around an hour and 45 minutes to an hour and 50 minutes to heat a 50-gallon electric unit. It will take around 2 hours for a big, 80-gallon electric water heater to reach the desired temperature.

6 Factors That Affect Water Heating Time

We’ll look at the elements that influence how long it takes to heat water heaters now that you’ve seen that they may take anything from half an hour to more than 2 hours to heat up.

First-Hour Delivery Rate

A rating for first-hour delivery (FHD) is given to all water heaters. When the water heater is fully charged, the FHD tells how many gallons of hot water it can deliver in an hour. The flow rates for FHD are provided in gallons per hour (GPH). A high FHD rate indicates that you will receive more hot water more quickly than you would from a unit with a lower FHD rate, which means you will save time and money. A FHD rate of around 60 to 80 GPH is appropriate for a 50-gallon container.

Recovery Rate

The recovery rate of a water heater refers to how many gallons of hot water the device can deliver each hour while it is being utilized. It informs you how quickly the water heater can recover (also known as refill) with cold water and heat it back up to normal temperature. Due to the fact that it takes less time to heat up hot water in a unit with a high recovery rate, it will supply hot water faster. A high recovery rate water heater, on the other hand, will be able to swiftly heat cold water that enters the system, regardless of how much hot water you’re consuming at once.

Power Source

The power source of a water heater (gas or electricity) has a significant impact on the amount of time it takes to heat water. Electric water heaters are notorious for taking a long time to heat the water. This is due to the fact that using electrical heating components rather than gas burners is less efficient. A typical 50-gallon gas water heater may have a flow rate of 80 to 90 GPH, but an average 50-gallon electric water heater may have a flow rate of 58 to 66 GPH, depending on the model.

While you might have to wait around 30 minutes for an ordinary gas water heater to heat up all of the water in the tank, you’ll have to wait twice as long for an electric water heater to do the same thing.

Water Heater Type

Those with tanks that store and heat water are referred to as storage water heaters. Tankless water heaters do not have storage tanks and heat the water as soon as it is drawn from the faucet, saving energy. These two types of water heaters have a significant variation in the amount of time required to heat water. It might take anything from 30 minutes to an hour and a half for a storage water heater to reach operating temperature. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, makes hot water accessible almost immediately.

Continue reading: The Best Tankless Water Heaters

Water Heater Size

The size of a storage water heater, measured in gallon capacity, has a significant impact on how rapidly it can heat water. Storage water heaters may typically hold anywhere from 30 to 80 gallons of water, depending on the model. Smaller tanks heat water more quickly (and run out of hot water more quickly) than larger tanks because there are fewer gallons of water to heat. This is analogous to heating water in a tiny 2-qt. saucepan on the stove instead of a large 12-qt. stock pot on the stove.

Larger tanks, on the other hand, do not take as long to heat up as you might expect.

Because large capacity gas water heaters feature a larger gas burner, they heat water faster than smaller capacity gas water heaters.

Continue reading: The Best Small Water Heaters

Original Water Temperature

The temperature of the starting water has a significant impact on the amount of time it takes for a unit to heat it up. If the water temperature at the input is low, the water heater will have to work harder to increase the water temperature to the setting you’ve selected. Temperatures in cooler areas are typically about 40 degrees Fahrenheit for the water entering the system. In warmer areas, the temperature is around 50 degrees. It takes some time for the water heater to heat the water from 40-50 degrees to 140 degrees.

To assist you in locating local plumbers in your region, we have teamed with Networx.

Find a Plumber in your area.

So, How Long Does It Take for a Water Heater to Heat Up?

In most cases, if you have a gas water heater set to 120 degrees and the incoming water is about 50 degrees, you should not have to wait more than 30 to 50 minutes for hot water (in 40 and 50-gallon units). A 5500-watt electric water heater set to 120 degrees will provide hot water after about 50 minutes if the incoming water temperature is roughly 50 degrees. This will require a little longer wait time. It will take around one hour to one hour and forty-five minutes (in 40 and 50-gallon units).

Generally speaking, no matter what sort of water heater you have, you should have hot water in less than 2 hours. If your water heater takes longer than around 2 hours to heat up, you should contact a professional to inspect it.

You Might Also like:

• In most cases, if you have a gas water heater set to 120 degrees and the incoming water is about 50 degrees, you should not have to wait more than 30-50 minutes for hot water (in 40 and 50-gallon units). A 5500-watt electric water heater set to 120 degrees will provide hot water after around 50 minutes of waiting if the incoming water temperature is approximately 50 degrees. A total of one hour and forty-five minutes will be needed (in 40 and 50-gallon units). No matter what sort of water heater you have, you should be able to have hot water in less than 2 hours in most situations. A professional should be contacted if your water heater takes longer than about 2 hours to heat up.

How Long Should a 50-Gallon Water Heater Take to Heat Up?

If you have a gas water heater set to 120 degrees and the incoming water is roughly 50 degrees, you shouldn’t have to wait more than 30-50 minutes for hot water (in 40 and 50-gallon units). A 5500-watt electric water heater set to 120 degrees will provide hot water after about 50 minutes of waiting if the incoming water temperature is roughly 50 degrees. It will take around one hour to one hour and forty-five minutes to complete (in 40 and 50-gallon units). In general, no matter what sort of water heater you have, you should have hot water in less than 2 hours.

Draw Efficiency

The draw efficiency of both gas and electric heaters is calculated on the basis of a formula that accounts for 70% of the total storage tank capacity. It is possible to get 35 gallons of use from a 50-gallon hot water heater since cold water replaces hot water throughout the heating process. A 50-gallon hot water heater is ideally suited for three-bathroom homes or for a household with two bathrooms and a washing machine, among other applications. Washing machines require 20 gallons of hot water, dishwashers demand 10 gallons, and a one-person bath takes at least 10 gallons.

First-Hour Rating

The total amount of water drawn from the hot water heater in gallons during one hour – with the unit set to a water temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit – determines the unit’s first-hour rating, which is determined according to the tests specified by the United States Department of Energy for the unit. The results of the unit’s energy efficiency tests are shown on the unit’s sticker. Testers pull three gallons of hot water per minute for the duration of the test, which terminates when the drawn hot water cools to 25 degrees.

Amount of water drawn during this hour shows the hot water heater’s full-hourly capacity (FHR), which provides an indicator of how much water is available during peak use periods throughout the day.

Recovery Rating

In accordance with the tests required by the U.S. Department of Energy for the unit, the total volume of water pulled from the hot water heater in gallons during one hour – with the unit set to a water temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit – determines its first-hour rating. The unit’s energy guidance sticker displays the results of the unit’s tests. Based on a 3-gallon draw per minute, the test is completed when the drawn hot water cools to 25 degrees. After the temperature hits 135 degrees for a second time, the process is repeated in the same manner for an additional hour continuously during the course of the hour.

Electric Hot Water Heater Recovery

It takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes for a 50-gallon hot water heater with 5,500-watt elements set to 120 degrees to heat water that comes into the unit at a temperature of 60 degrees.

In contrast, when the water entering this same tank is 40 degrees, it takes 1 hour and 47 minutes to heat it to the desired temperature. It takes 1 hour, 6 minutes for water that is 70 degrees when it enters the tank to reach its maximum temperature of 120 degrees.

Gas Hot Water Heater Recovery

When calculating the recovery time for an electric hot-water heater, reduce the results by two to get the recovery time for a gas unit. Water entering a 50-gallon tank at 40 degrees Fahrenheit heats up in about 53 1/2 minutes to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. In the case of 60-degree water entering the tank, the time it takes for the water to reach the 120-degree temperature is around 40 minutes. It would take 33 minutes for water that was 70 degrees.

How Long Does it Take for Electric & Gas Water Heaters to Heat Up?

An ice cold shower is one of the few things that can completely derail your day, and if you have the improper water heater, this might become your new normal. If your present heater is on its last legs, don’t allow the stress of the circumstance push you into making the wrong decision about your new heater. Before you purchase a water heater, take into consideration how long it will take for your water heater of choice to reach operating temperature. If you want to run a large amount of hot water at the same time, you’ll need a more powerful system than if you merely want to take a hot shower on a consistent basis.

In spite of the numerous variables that might influence the time required, the chart below illustrates the average time required for each kind of water heater to heat up.

How Long It Takes A Water Heater to Heat Up For The First Time

Water Heater Type	Time Takes to Heat Up
Gas Tank	30-40 minutes
Gas Tankless	0 minutes *
Electric Tank	60-80 minutes
Electric Tankless	0 minutes *

*If the tankless water heater is appropriately designed and placed, it may offer practically immediate heat. Source of the graph

How Long Does it Take for a Gas Water Heater to Heat Up?

*When correctly designed and installed, tankless water heaters may deliver virtually immediate heat. Source of the chart

How Long Does it Take an Electric Hot Water Heater to Heat Up?

When compared to its gas equivalents, electric tank water heaters often need double the length of time to heat water. Despite the fact that electric components are often more cost-effective, they cannot match with the great performance of gas-fired systems. It would take approximately one hour for an electric water heater to heat the 40-gallon tank indicated above from the moment new water is introduced. As a result, residences with higher water needs are more likely to choose for a whole-house gas tank water heater rather than an electric type.

When it comes to heating water, an electric tank water heater takes 60-80 minutes, compared to 30 minutes for a gas tank water heater.

How Long Does it Take a Tankless Gas Heater To Warm Up?

Tankless water heaters heat your water on demand, which means that the distance between your heater and the device you are using is the only factor that defines how long it will take for you to obtain hot water from your faucet. Ideally, this should not take more than a few seconds with a typical-sized house if the system is functioning properly. It may take a few extra seconds for the water to travel through the water pipes and reach appliances that are located further away from the heater in a large home.

Because a tankless gas heater warms water instantaneously, it should only take a few seconds for the hot water to flow through your pipes and into your fixture after being turned on.

How Long Does it Take a Tankless Electric Heater To Warm Up?

Considering that tankless water heaters heat your water “on demand,” the only factor that decides how long it will take for you to obtain hot water from your faucet is the distance between your heater and the item you are using. Ideally, this should not take more than a few seconds for a typical-sized house if the system is functioning correctly. Depending on the size of the house, it may take a few more seconds for the water to travel through the pipes and reach appliances located at a greater distance away from the water heater.

Factors That Affect Heat Up Time

Apart from the variables we’ve already covered, such as tank size and BTU rating, there are a variety of other elements that might influence how long it takes your water heater to heat water for the first time.

• Apart from the variables we’ve already covered, such as tank size and BTU rating, there are a number of other factors that might influence how long it takes your water heater to heat water for the first time.

In conclusion, there is a heater out there that is appropriate for everyone. Be sure to consider your requirements before picking either a traditional tank or a tankless system. See our assessment of the top models on the market now that you know how long it takes for both gas and electric water heaters to heat up. With amazing brands like Bosch, Rheem, and Takagi, you’re sure to find something that works for your needs!

How Long Does it Take for a Water Heater to Heat Up?

Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links. Briefly stated, less water warms more rapidly than more water; hence, the volume of water you are heating, as well as the temperature at which it is heated, influences how soon you will get it.

Does Your Hot Water Flow Seem Too Slow?

Hot water heater flow rates may be determined with the use of a simple formula that only requires two variables to be entered into the computer. One possible version of the formula is as follows: Available hot water is determined by the size of the hot water tank and the rate of heat input. Hot WaterIn layman’s terms, the volume of water you are heating, together with the amount of heat you apply to it, affects how soon you will have warm water. Consider a tiny point-of-use water heater or a water heater for a recreational vehicle.

• To determine whether or not your water heater’s recovery rate is slow, do certain basic measures that are often utilized by many plumbers in the industry.
• to 9 a.m.
• The peak use reflects the greatest amount of water that the water heater can handle.
• If it is capable of managing peak hours, it is capable of fulfilling the remainder of your requirements.
• Add extra 20 gallons to accommodate two more baths for a household of four people.
• The entire amount of water is 90 gallons.
• Any unit’s maximum draw capacity is around 70% of its total capacity.
• That implies that with a 50-gallon water heater, there is always 35 gallons of hot water accessible at all moment.
• In accordance with this prediction, bathing while also washing dishes and clothing at the same time will result in running out of hot water very rapidly.

Either don’t do it, get a higher capacity hot water heater, or replace your tank-style hot water heater with a tankless water heater is the Einsteinian answer to this enormous planet-destroying problem. Who would have thought it!?

Recovery Efficiency

Another element to consider while scaling is the amount of time it takes to recover. While gas heaters heat water more quickly, their recovery efficiency is lower than that of electric heaters. For gas water heaters, the efficiency is 75%, whereas for electric water heaters, the efficiency is 100%. Gas hot water heaters, on the other hand, even at lower recovery efficiency, generate more hot water and do it much more quickly than their electrically powered equivalents. Gas heaters with a 30,000 BTU burner create 27.3 gallons per hour at 75 percent recovery efficiency, but electric heaters with a 750-watt heating element produce 3.1 gallons per hour at 75 percent recovery efficiency.

The output of an electrical hot water heater rises with the addition of more heating elements and the use of greater wattages.

One hour’s worth of heating with an electrical heating element results in 20.5 gallons of 100 percent increase when using a 4,500 watt electrical heating element.

The 20,000 BTU burner has a 33 percent lower BTU output than the 30,000 BTU burner (BTU example).

What is a Good Water Heater Recovery Rate?

If the water heater has a capacity of 40 to 50 gallons per hour, anything above 40 gallons per hour would be considered an excellent recovery rate. The higher the BTU rating of the burner, the better it is for recovery in general. An average 50-gallon electric water heater with twin heating elements has a recovery rate of 20 gallons per hour, which is satisfactory for most applications. Single element water heaters will, of course, have a lesser recovery rate than their two-element counterparts.

The Major Factor

The image is courtesy of HotWater.com. Don’t get yourself mixed up. The amount of water being heated, the method by which it is heated, and the amount of water being utilized are the elements that determine how long it takes the water heater to heat up. The amount of water heated each hour is specified in the heating rates. The capacity of the storage tank indicates how much hot water is immediately accessible when you turn on the faucet. You might consider upgrading to a larger tank if your family is large, has several bathrooms, and has several hot water-consuming activities occurring at the same time on a frequent basis.

Greater tank capacities are designed for homes who require a big volume of hot water in a short period of time.

As a result, a 40-gallon tank will meet your demands, and you will save money by not purchasing a larger 50-gallon tank that you will not need.

See the water heater recovery table in the preceding section.

When using an electric water heater, increase the time by half to 1.5 hours. It goes without saying that you will never have to be concerned about the recovery rate with a tankless water heater. Another point to consider in the discussion over whether to use a tank or not.

How Long Does It Take a Water Heater to Heat Up?

Are you in the market for a new water heater but are unsure of how to select the most appropriate model for your requirements? Do you regularly run out of hot water in the middle of a shower and wonder what you can do to fix the problem? Let’s have a look at how long it takes a water heater to heat up in real life. In every family, water heaters serve a crucial function; without them, we wouldn’t have enough hot water for our everyday activities. However, they are not magic machines that can produce an unlimited supply of water, and the rate at which they heat up is dependent on a variety of factors.

How Long Does It Take a Water Heater to Heat Up

In terms of water heaters, there is a tremendous range of sizes, styles, and fuel or power sources to choose from. All of these factors have an impact on the time it takes for the water heater to heat up.

Gas Water Heaters

Natural gas boilers are one of the most efficient and long-standing methods of heating water in a household. For a long time, gas has been a popular source of energy. One of the advantages is that energy expenses are kept to a minimum. As an alternative to employing electric components, they heat the water with gas burners that are located at the bottom of the storage tank. As a result, their recuperation period is much shorter. Generally speaking, a standard gas water heater does not take long to heat a full tank of water, however the time may vary depending on the size.

Electric Water Heaters

Electric water heaters are somewhat less efficient than gas water heaters. These make use of electric heating components that are contained within the tank, similar to a toaster or an oven. The recovery period of these units is somewhat longer than that of gas-fueled machines. If you have a 40-gallon tank, you may anticipate to get hot water in between 60 and 80 minutes. You’ll get hot water in around two hours if you have an 80-gallon storage tank.

Solar Water Heaters

No other source of energy besides the sun provides electricity for solar water heaters (1). However, because we can’t rely on him to be there at all times, they are frequently backed up by a normal electric water heater. It follows that they require approximately the same length of time as an electric unit. Having said that, there are solar units on the market that are solely powered by solar energy. On overcast days, you should expect a lengthy wait time if this is the case. On really rainy and dreary days, there may be no hot water at all.

• However, instead of directly creating heat, they make use of the incoming power to circulate the heat, so boosting their efficiency (2).
• This is often comprised of a hybrid mode as well as a high-demand mode.
• In hybrid mode, the waiting period for hot water might be up to two hours, depending on the size of the water storage tank used.
• If you’re searching for a water heater that requires little to no waiting time, a tankless water heater is the best option.
• They do not have a tank, which means that the water is brought in on demand and is heated as it circulates through the system (3).

There are a variety of sizes available, with the majority of them intended for use as a point-of-use device. Having said that, the average waiting time is less than a minute in most cases.

Factors That Influence Heating Time

It is none other than the sun himself that powers solar water heaters (1). They are, however, frequently backed up by a regular electric water heater, because we cannot rely on him to be available all of the time. This, of course, implies that they require approximately the same length of time as an electric unit. Although solar power is not always the most reliable source of energy, some solar systems do rely exclusively on solar energy. You might expect a lengthy wait time on cloudy days if this is the case.

• Given that they are modified electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters are commonly referred to as “hybrid” models.
• When it comes to heat pump units, they are often high-tech, providing you the choice of selecting from a variety of energy-saving modes.
• Although the machine consumes less energy when operating in hybrid mode, the heating time is prolonged by this feature.
• However, if you choose high-demand, the electric portion of the machine will activate and reduce the waiting period to around 60 to 80 minutes.
• When it comes to water heaters, tankless or on-demand models are the most convenient.
• Nonetheless, there are a variety of sizes available, with the majority of them being designed to be used in a single location.

1.First Hour Rating

It is indicated by the first hour rating that the water heater can supply a certain number of gallons within the first hour of operation. It displays the water heater’s capacity to return a full tank to the proper temperature once it has recovered from a power failure (4). A high ranking for the first hour indicates a lower waiting time. In order to determine this value, we need to know the fuel source, tank capacity, and size of the heating components or burners (5).

2.Size of Water Heater

It is indicated by the first hour rating that the water heater can supply a certain number of gallons in the first hour of operation. When the water heater has recovered from a full tank and reached the required temperature, this parameter reflects the heater’s capability (4). If you have a good first-hour rating, you will have a reduced wait. According to the fuel source, tank capacity, and size of the heating elements or burners, a determined number is generated (5).

3.Inlet Water Temperature

Another element that can have a significant impact on recovery time is the temperature of the incoming water, often known as temperature increase. It is possible that the inflow water will be at a different temperature depending on where you reside. Generally speaking, the weather is cooler in the North than it is in the South.

We refer to the temperature disparity between the entering water and the temperature that has been established on the boiler as “temperature increase.” The colder the intake water is, the longer it will take for the water to heat up to the proper temperature.

4.Fuel Type

Another element that might have a significant impact on recovery time is the temperature of the inflow water, or the temperature increase. The temperature of the inflow water will vary depending on where you reside in the world. Generally speaking, the weather is colder up north than it is down south. We refer to the temperature disparity between the entering water and the temperature that has been established on the boiler when we speak of “temperature increase.” The colder the intake water is, the longer it will take for the water to heat up to the desired temperature.

Why Is It Suddenly Taking Longer?

Over time, it is likely that your water heater may take longer to heat up. However, if it occurs too soon, keep the following in mind:

1.Sediment Buildup

Sediment accumulation is the most likely cause of your water heater’s unexpected inability to heat water quickly. This is a frequent problem that occurs over time as your machine becomes older. Although it is possible that it will occur sooner if you have hard input water or if you ignore upkeep. When the minerals contained in the water begin to settle on the inside of the tank, this is referred to as sediment building. The phenomenon can occur even with soft water that is low in minerals, although it will often take a bit longer before it becomes evident.

These are located on the tank’s walls and around the heating components, where they can severely impair the tank’s capacity to heat the water in it.

• The unit takes slower to heat up, and you’ll run out of fuel far more quickly than you did previously
• There are weird noises coming from the device, such as popping, banging, or hissing. Increased energy bills by a significant amount

The most effective method of resolving this problem is to cleanse the tank on a regular basis. If, on the other hand, you have an electric unit and the heating elements are broken beyond repair, you will need to have them replaced.

2.Needs Troubleshooting

If sediment accumulation isn’t the problem, it’s possible that the heating components or the thermostat need to be checked out for problems. If you have an electric heater, this is a rather simple technique; but, if you have a gas heater, you’ll need some prior knowledge. This is also one of the reasons why we advocate consulting with a professional. If your unit is powered by electricity, the following is a basic description of how to troubleshoot:

• Turn off the electricity: Before you handle any electrical components, make sure the breaker is in the “Off” position. To gain access to the thermostat, follow these steps: Using a screwdriver, remove the access panel from the wall. Afterwards, carefully remove the insulation to reveal the upper thermostat. Check the battery’s capacity: Make use of a multimeter to check for indicators of voltage on the cables. Before you proceed, make sure that they all have a reading of zero. Adjust the temperature as follows: To adjust the temperature, use a flat-bladed screwdriver to turn the arrow displaying the temperature. Reduce the temperature by a few degrees to see if it helps. To sum it up: Insulation and the access panel should be replaced. When you’re ready, switch on the breaker to bring your water heater back to life.

Alternatively, if the recovery time is still too slow, it is possible that the heating components need to be replaced. Another possibility is that your water heater is just not large enough to meet your hot water requirements.

This Took a While…

Alternatively, if the recovery time is still too slow, it is possible that the heating components need to be changed. Another possibility is that your water heater is just too small to meet your hot water requirements.