In a restaurant, you obviously use a lot of hot water. So far, you might not have had any problems with your existing hot water tank, and you might assume that there is no need to invest in a larger one. However, many restaurants have smaller hot water tanks than what they actually need. If you look for these four signs, then you can determine if it's a good idea to invest in a new tank for your place of business.

1. Your Water Tank Isn't Commercial Quality

If you are currently using a hot water tank that is designed for residential use, then now is the time to replace it. These tanks typically aren't large enough for restaurant use. Plus, the health inspector could write your restaurant up for not using commercial-quality equipment.

2. You Run Out of Hot Water

It's important to never run out of hot water in your restaurant, particularly during busy times. Even if your water heats up quickly and your restaurant isn't without hot water for long, there is still a good chance that your dishes aren't being washed properly and that your hands are being cleaned well enough during the period that you are without hot water. If you have ever had a shortage of hot water in your restaurant, now is the time to invest in a new hot water tank.

3. Your Electric Bills are Extremely High

If your electric bills are extremely high, your water heater could be to blame. This can happen when your water heater has to work too hard to try to produce enough hot water for your restaurant. One way to cut costs is to invest in a more energy-efficient water heater and a large hot water tank.

4. You Have Problems With Your Water Heater's Heating Element

Although it isn't uncommon for a water heater's heating element to go out once it ages, it isn't a part that you should have to replace constantly. If you often find yourself replacing your water heater's heating element, there is a good chance that the water heater is working too hard to try to produce the amount of hot water that your restaurant needs. This can lead to your heating element burning out and could be a good sign that it's time to buy a larger water tank.

As you can see, some of the clues that you need a larger hot water tank aren't always obvious. Look for these four things; however, and you can make the investment that you need to make if your restaurant's water heater isn't large enough. Talk to a professional like Mayfair Gas Plumbing & Electrical for more information.