This was not a problem 28 years ago because flow restrictors weren't used. Today they are, therefore you have to let the water run longer to purge the cold water from the hot water lines. Generally, a bath tub spout does not have a flow restrictor so, just for fun, try opening that hot water valve and notice how long it takes for hot water to appear.
"You could reduce the problem somewhat very cheaply AND save energy by insulating the outbound pipe on the water heater."
This will help if the hot water has been recently used. However, if it hasn't been used for awhile, which frequently happens in places like an upstairs master bath, it will hardly make any difference at all.
"You can get fiberglass strip specially made for the purpose for a few dollars from a home improvement/hardware store. Use latex gloves to avoid itchiness, "
Fiberglass strips? They sell a foam insulation tube type of product that comes in sizes specifically made to wrap pipe.
"I also use the leftover fiberglass to insulate the incoming pipe, an amazing amount of heat leaks out that way and wrapping it preheats the incoming water, saving you energy. "
Now this is really confusing. Insulation can't preheat anything. And what amazing amount of heat is leaking out from the incoming water? Most water coming into homes is from underground, so it's 50 deg or so, not hot.
" I also agree with collecting the start water in a bucket and using it
to flush,"
Hard to see what that accomplishes. Most places, water is cheap enough that screwing around to save a half gallon of cold water sure ain't worth it, cause it costs a tiny fraction of a cent.
The problem went away. I was rather puzzled since the washing machine was not allways on and taking water. It could be also that the boiler had colder water and up to that day had not warmed up completely.
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