Back to Questions	Why does my water heater run out of hot water right away when I take a shower?	.
	If the water heater is a two-element, electric model, the usual reason to run out of hot water quickly is that the lower element has burned out. If the water heater is a gas model, this symptom indicates that the tube that directs the cold water to the bottom of the tank (this is called a dip tube) is faulty. If the dip tube is broken or cracked, the cold water mixes with the hot water higher in the tank and causes the water to cool off.   This can be the problem in an electric water heater also.  An electric water heater element can be checked with an ohmmeter for continuity.  To check the dip tube, disconnect the cold water supply and remove the nipple that is screwed into the tank.  On some water heaters the dip tube or what is left of it will come out. with the nipple.  Other tubes are flared and can be removed by inserting a finger into the center of the tube and pulling it out for inspection. If you need more help, go into Bill's Plumbing and ask one of their specialists, or email your question. One of Bill's specialists will get a prompt answer to you, often by the next day!