[Hugh R]

Check the temperature setting dial on the water heater. Also, most water heaters have a tube that discharges the cold water to the bottom of the tank, where the heating element is located. Sometimes that tube breaks or falls off. You can usually access the tube via' the cold water inlet connection. Also, try draining the junk out of the bottom of the heater, there is a drain valve on the front with a garden hose connection. 40 gallon is average for a family of four.