Water Heater Problem

remodeling joe

my water heater won't stay hot for long anymore like it used to. a couple of glorious hot water minutes then cold as hillary's a--!! i'm thinking the elements or the thermostat....... any help would be appreciated.
thanks

Ron The Plumber

Dip Tube

remodeling joe

can you please explain in some detail...... i thank you for your reply

gmp

He's saying the diptube may be shot.

Instead of getting the cold water to the bottom of the water it is mixing with the hot at the top.
The diptube's purpose is to keep the cold water from immediately leaving the water heater once it enters. The diptube is located on the cold inlet. It is usually plastic and inserted below the cold nipple.

How old is the water heater? There were defects in water heater diptubes in the late 90's I believe.

remodeling joe

well guys........i checked the dip tube and it was in good shape. no cracks or breakage. i did find that the bottom element was bad, so i replaced it and hot water is on again!! thanks guys for all the advice.