Hot water systems are a serious investment, so we expect them to provide reliable service for years to come. Let’s call it a lasting companion rather than a mere appliance. So what are the signs your hot water system is in decline? Protecting your investment is about regular maintenance and hot water system repairs. But, even with proper care, your hot water system probably won’t last more than 15 years. So how do you know when your hot water system is about to…. turn to a not-hot water system?
1. Your hot water system may show no signs of imminent death
Some hot water systems work at peak performance right up to their dying day. That’s where you end up needing an emergency plumber to come replace it. While it’s a mark of a good unit that it does a flawless job right until the end, it’s also highly inconvenient. Especially if it carks it while you’re in the shower!
2. Reduced hot water supply
A sudden reduction in your hot water supply can be an early indication of underlying issues with the system. From hot water running out quicker than usual, to your tank not producing the volume it used to, these issues can suggest that the system’s heating element isn’t functioning as it should. Over time, mineral deposits can settle in the tank and impact the efficiency of the heating element. Your sacrificial anode may have been sacrificed long ago, leaving the system vulnerable to corrosive build-up. If picked up early through regular maintenance, flushing the tank can reduce/remove sediment build-up, prolonging the lifespan of your hot water system.
However, if your hot water system is older than 10 years and its showing signs of reduced flow, call in Salmon Plumbers Brisbane to get your new model fitted BEFORE it becomes an emergency.
3. Leaks or corrosion
Leaks or corrosion around the base of your hot water system (or even closer to the fittings) can signify a range of potential issues. Rusty or discoloured water, regular drips, and even strange noises can be due to a failure of any one of the tank’s components. Whether it be a valve or a seal, you’ll not only be dealing with significant water wastage over time and potential damage to surrounding areas but also corrosion to the tank structure increasing the risk of damage.
4. Leaks and “death rattles”
There’s water around the base of your hot water system. You hear the occasional weird noise come from it. It stops being that “white good you don’t notice” and starts being intrusive. If you’ve started to notice your hot water system, because it’s “behaving differently”, there’s every chance it’s crying out for your help. Leaks, noises, odd condensation, visual cracks in the seals… these are all signs the old girl needs a doctor. They may not mean imminent failure, or they may. It could be something as simple as replacing a valve. They may mean that a replacement part can save her. But don’t ignore “odd” noises or drips because they’ll only get worse.
5. No Hot Water
OK, so no hot water might mean it’s too late, your hot water system has passed on and is reuniting with its hot water family on the other side. Or, it could mean you need to check few things to get it working again.
Split Tap Washers
If you have hot water coming through all the correct taps in your house, except not through the shower, you may need to replace the tap washers. A dribble of warm water through the shower rose is a sign the tap washer has split and is preventing the hot water to flow through to the shower rose. Get the washers replaced and you should have steaming water running through in no time.
Faulty Tempering Valve
All electric hot water installations should have a tempering valve installed. This tempering valve controls the temperature and tempers the heated and stored water to 50 degrees Celsius. If you have water running through the hot water tap, but it’s lukewarm or cold, your tempering valve may need to be adjusted or tested by a plumber and replaced if faulty.
Rusty, Split Tank
A rusty or split storage tank won’t be able to supply your home when it’s draining from the bottom of the tank. A rusty water tank is a sign of old age and a tank that has never had its sacrificial anode maintained. The only way to fix this issue is to replace the tank with a new system. Salmon Plumbing can give you a quote for supply and install of a new hot water unit to suit your needs.
Tripped Switch
As the name suggests, electric hot water units require electricity to heat the water. Even some gas hot water units require electricity to ignite the pilot light. Before calling a plumber to investigate the system, check the power switchboard of your home. If the switch labelled ‘HOT WATER’ is off, there may be an electrical fault which will require a call out from an electrician.
Faulty Relief Valve
If the hot water pressure is minimal throughout the house, this is a sign the pressure relief valve is faulty. Call your local plumber to replace immediately.
Sometimes the plumbing fault may not be immediately obvious to you. To give your plumber an idea of the possible cause, test all the hot water taps within your house. Make a note of the temperature and flow. This will prepare your plumber on what to look at first when they come out to fix the problem.
What Next?
If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, it’s time to call in the hot water system professionals! Salmon Plumbing can promptly assist with any urgent repairs, and if necessary, install a new hot water system. Our experienced team can help you choose the best system for your household needs and your budget.
TIP! Don’t forget to check your system’s warranty coverage to determine if repairs or replacements are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. This can potentially save a lot of money.
Once your concerns are cleared up, consider setting up a regular hot water system maintenance plan with a qualified Salmon Plumbing technician to help identify and address issues early, and enjoy an uninterrupted hot water supply just like you expect!
