Ronald,
We are sorry to hear that the Performance Plus 40 Gal. Short 9-Year 38,000 BTU Natural Gas Tank Water Heater isn’t meeting your hot water needs. It can be disappointing when a new appliance doesn’t perform as expected.
The capacity of a water heater is indeed an important factor to consider, especially for households with multiple members or high hot water usage. A 50-gallon unit might have been a better fit for your needs.
If you’re still within the return period, you might consider exchanging it for a larger model. If not, there are a few things you could try to maximize your hot water supply:
Stagger your showers: By spacing out showers, you give the water heater a chance to recover and heat up more water.
Lower the water usage: Using water-saving showerheads or reducing the flow rate during showers can help the hot water last longer.
Increase the temperature: If it’s set too low, increasing the water heater’s temperature can provide hotter water. However, be careful not to set it too high as it can increase the risk of scalding and use more energy.
Remember, it’s always important to consult with a professional if you’re unsure.
Derius