Updated 2024 By John Salmon. Hot water servicing is never top of your to-do list. In fact, most Brisbane homeowners don’t even realise that hot water servicing is a thing needed every five years, at least. And no, it’s not one of those sneaky services designed to charge you an arm and a leg for no reason. If you check out the manufacturer’s guidelines or your warranty, you’ll see that hot water units live a tough life, especially in Brisbane. Brisbane water is “hard” and can be particularly hard on electric hot water heaters. It is an essential service to replace two of the more crucial components of the hot water system: the sacrificial anode and the hot water valves.

What our expert plumbers say

After more than 20 years as leading plumbers in Brisbane, we can tell you that a neglected hot water system costs more to run, is less efficient and it dies far sooner than it should. It’s not just the valves and anode, regular “checking” is key to making sure you aren’t paying a fortune in water heating costs, hot water repairs and looking at premature hot water system replacement.

What is the sacrificial anode?

The sacrificial anode protects your hot water tank from rust. When it is fully worn out or beginning to corrode, a natural result of its use, electrons in the water begin to rust the hot water tank. Replacing the anode significantly extends the life of your hot water tank – and it may even double it! Learn more about sacrificial anodes here.

Old Sacrificial Anode and Replacement Sacrificial Anode - replaced during hot water unit service

Demonstrating its significant importance, some warranties stipulate that tank maintenance and anode change must be completed otherwise the warranty is void. It doesn’t matter if you have a heat pump hot water installation, gas, electric or solar, you’ll need to replace this or risk trashing your system.

What is a hot water valve?

Hot water valves progressively fatigue over time and do not operate to peak effectiveness. These components may be small in size, but don’t underestimate their importance!

Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve

This valve, also known as a TPRV, regulates the pressure and temperature in your hot water tank. By releasing water when the pressure reaches a certain level, it reduces stress on your hot water tank. The older it gets, the stiffer and less sensitive it becomes which diminishes functionality. This increases the expansion and contraction of the hot water tank, leading to greater fatigue and a shorter tank life.

Cold Water Expansion Valve in a Hot Water System

This valve sits on the inlet of the tank. Also known as ECVs, cold water expansion valves are designed to be activated at lower functioning pressure than a TPRV and release cold water instead of hot water when the hot water storage system becomes pressurised. They become less effective with time.

Plumber performing hot water tank service

Tempering Valve in your Hot Water System

Working to regulate the temperature of the hot water to 50 degrees +- 3 degrees. The tempering valve should be replaced every 5 years – but as a minimum, its filters should be cleaned and temperature reset.

Pressure Limiting/Pressure Reduction Valve

This valve limits or regulates incoming water pressure to ensure it does not go above 500KPA. When operating effectively, it works to extend the life of your hot water unit and downstream tapware, fixtures, and appliances. Be aware, if the water inlet pressure does exceed 500KPA, your system’s warranty may be void. Don’t take the risk!

Duo Valve or Isolation/Non-Return Valve

Designed as a shut-off point for the water supply into the hot water unit, this valve prevents hot water from being pushed into cold water. Ultimately, this is a health and safety issue and works to save energy by preventing hot water from escaping.

Why do Brisbane hot water units need servicing?

Investing in a reliable and energy-efficient hot water tank is important, but you can now see that investing in the maintenance of it is extremely important, too. Brisbane’s hard water can negatively affect the longevity of hot water units and residents should take every step possible to help extend the life of their hot water system through regular servicing. Simply call Salmon Plumbers North Brisbane, and we’ll come to you anywhere in Greater Brisbane, on time, guaranteed.

By carrying out regular hot water servicing, Brisbane homeowners can:

  • Ensure the hot water system operates at optimal efficiency
  • Extend the system’s lifespan, and possibly double it
  • Avoid costly repairs or the need to completely replace the system prematurely
  • Have peace of mind that safety mechanisms such as pressure relief valves are in good working order to prevent accidents or gas leaks.

So don’t wait until something goes wrong! When you need hot water system servicing, Brisbane professionals Salmon Plumbing are here to assist – contact us today.