Whether it's helping you wake up in the morning or unwind at the end of the day, a good shower is something many of us take for granted. So, when your shower starts feeling a bit... underwhelming, it’s easy to think your water heater could be on its last legs. 

The good news? That’s not always the case. 

Whether your shower isn’t as hot as it used to be, the water pressure has dropped or it’s simply not performing like it once did, there are a few things you can check before calling a professional. 

 

Your showerhead could need a clean 

Over time, mineral deposits can build up inside your showerhead, restricting water flow and affecting your shower's performance. This can make it feel like your water pressure is weaker than usual. Try removing the showerhead and soaking it in white vinegar for a few hours before giving it a gentle scrub. You might be surprised by the difference. 

Is it just the shower?

Turn on the hot water in another tap around the house. 

If the water is nice and hot everywhere else, the issue may be with your shower mixer or showerhead rather than your water heater. 

If all your hot taps are only producing warm water, it's worth investigating further. 

 

Your household could be using more hot water

Busy mornings can put any hot water system to work. 

If several people are showering one after another, or appliances like the washing machine or dishwasher are using hot water at the same time, you may notice your shower isn’t performing quite as you’d expect. 

If your home has continuous flow gas hot water, it's designed to provide hot water on demand, making it a popular option for busy households. Learn more about the benefits of continuous flow hot water. 

 

When was your water heater last serviced? 

Like most household appliances, gas water appliances benefit from regular servicing. 

A registered gasfitter can check that everything is operating safely and efficiently, helping identify small issues before they become bigger ones. 

Regular maintenance can also help keep your system performing at its best, so you're less likely to be caught out when you need hot water most. 

 

Know when to call a professional 

If you've tried the simple checks and your hot water still isn't as hot as it should be, it's time to contact a registered gasfitter or plumber. 

It's also worth arranging an inspection if you notice: 

• Your hot water temperature changes unexpectedly.  

• Your water pressure has dropped significantly.  

• Your hot water stops altogether.  

• Your water heater is displaying an error code. 

• You're concerned something isn't operating as it should. 

Keep your shower performing at its best 

If your shower isn't working as well as it used to, don't assume the worst. Sometimes the solution is as simple as cleaning your showerhead, while other times a routine service can help identify an issue before it becomes a bigger problem. A little maintenance can go a long way towards keeping your home's hot water system performing at its best. 

If you're considering different ways to heat your water, you can also explore our water heating cost comparison tool to see how different options compare for your household.