Water Heaters - Hot Water not hot enough

Please help me. Gas Hot Water Tank setting has always been set to the highest setting. It has been barely ok just hot enough since new a few years ago. Now I can run a whole bath tub at full hot. It is not hot enough. It is lukewarm. I can't set the dial on the hot water tank any higher since day one. Now it's worse. I don't think it's sediment because it's been that way pretty much since day one.

Installer thought when he gave me this new tank, he thought it was so hot it burned his hands. I have complained about it when I bought this tank. Now I guess I have to pay for it again.

Can someone help me what may be the problem, and what should I do before calling another plumber.

P.S. Should have kept my old tank. THAT was fire-ey hot!!
Thanks all.... hotwater88

Try moving the temperature setting knob to the lowest temperature and then back up to about midrange. It probably won't do anything but if it is just a "sticking" thermostat this might work.

How old is this heater? Gas water heaters have a "normal" lifespan of about eight to ten years. If it is older than six years it is probably not worth putting much money into it but if it is newer (or is a premium model with a long warranty) you could replace the gas valve / thermostat assembly.

The tank is about 6 years old. Brand new. Never was right from the start. I had to set it at the highest setting since then. I don't know if it's worth fixing or should I get a new one. Thanks Furd..