Stop in for a cup of coffee

Hot water heater question...the place I'm renting has an 85 gal hot water heater. For the past few days, the water hasn't been as hot as before, and before the end of a normal shower, it's only warm. Do they "partially fail" like this? If so, can it be fixed or will it probably need to be replaced? Is there anything I should try before notifying the management company? Thanks in advance.

Heat coils may need replaced. If water in your area has a lot of minerals they build up over time and clog up elements. Usually though only a temporary fix. Did mine once only got two more years out of it.