Hot Water Servicing is NOT Optional!

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.

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Hot Water Repairs – Do You Need a Specialist Hot Water Plumber?

Woman shivering under a cold shower - needs an expert in hot water repairs

Hot water system acting up? It’s a very cold wake-up call when reliable hot water suddenly lets us down! Without it, everyday routines are all but impossible – so the quicker you can get hot water repairs sorted, the sooner you can get the family routine back on track.

Here’s what you need to know about getting your hot water system up and running again ASAP!

Common Signs Your Hot Water System Needs Attention

Your hot water system is a mechanical device, and therefore, susceptible to having things go wrong occasionally, particularly if it hasn’t had regular servicing. Some common issues Plumbers in Brisbane see include:

  • No hot water
  • Water temperature is too hot or not hot enough
  • Leaky tank
  • Low pressure when running the hot water
  • Water has an unusual smell and/or colour
  • System is noisy

These are just a few signs that your hot water system needs attention. However, properly diagnosing the issue depends on a range of factors.

What Causes Problems With Hot Water Systems?

Hot water systems are complex and problems are not always straightforward to diagnose – particularly because not all systems operate using the same technology.

There are four kinds of hot water systems:

Hot water repairs can be required for relatively simple things like a tripped circuit breaker or a malfunctioning thermostat. More major problems include a broken heating element, or water or gas leaks. In addition to the hot water unit itself, each system has pipes and other fittings and the problem could be with any of these elements. In some cases, problems arise due to sediment clogging the pipes in your home.

So who do you call to assess and repair your hot water system?

Who Handles Hot Water Repairs?

If your hot water system is not working as expected, calling a plumber with expertise in hot water systems is crucial. By acting quickly to address the issue, you may even prevent further damage to your system.

Hiring the local odd-jobs guy to handle hot water repairs might seem like a smart way to save money but buyer beware. Not only are there regulations around who can undertake certain plumbing and electrical work, using an unlicensed person to repair your hot water system can have expensive consequences. From voiding your warranty to being liable for uninsured work, or even requiring a full hot water system replacement due to incorrect or poorly completed repairs, the risks are just too high.

Installing a New Hot Water System

Over time, a household’s hot water needs can change. If your old system is no longer providing enough hot water or you’re looking for a more energy-efficient option, Salmon Plumbing can advise you on the best hot water solutions for your needs. We’ll install your new replacement system quickly and dispose of the old system for your convenience.

Need help with commercial hot water? We do that, too!

For expert advice and professional hot water repairs in Brisbane, call Salmon Plumbing today!

How to Reduce Water Heating Costs in Brisbane

Running the water to heat the shower. Low Flow shower heads can help reduce water heating costs

With soaring temperatures and frequent use of hot water systems, you might find yourself facing hefty energy bills. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to reduce water heating costs in Brisbane.

Implementing simple strategies can significantly reduce water heating expenses without compromising comfort or convenience. By making small adjustments like installing high-efficiency water heaters and using low-flow fixtures, households can enjoy significant savings without much effort. It’s a practical approach in today’s cost-conscious environment where everyone is seeking ways to cut expenses.

Setting the ideal hot water system temperature to reduce heating costs

One of the most effective ways to save on water heating costs in Brisbane is by adjusting your hot water system settings. This includes adjusting the thermostat to what is considered to be the optimal temperature; typically around 60-70 degrees Celsius. This temperature can prevent bacterial growth in the water while also minimising the risk of scalding injuries.

It is always essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific hot water system to ensure key performance and safety. However, a factory setting is often greater than what it should be so take the time to seek the advice of a professional installer and if there is an opportunity to lower the temperature to what is considered an ideal range, do it. It can instantly help prevent excessive heating and reduce costs.

Regular hot water system maintenance

Regular maintenance of your hot water system is another essential aspect of cost-saving measures. Brisbane’s hot and humid climate can accelerate wear and tear on water heating systems, leading to decreased efficiency and increased energy consumption over time. A simple service callout, scheduled regularly, will help ensure your warranty is maintained. In addition, regular servicing allows your plumber to identify and repair leaks, corrosion and other issues before they become costly problems. Keeping up to date with maintenance is also an easy way to prolong the lifespan of your hot water system.

Water saving solutions in your own home

Another practical tip for reducing water heating costs is to make rather minor changes within your home. By adopting water-saving habits like turning off dripping taps, fixing leaks, and even installing low-flow showerheads, you can significantly lower your water bill. A leaking hot water tap will cost you big time – in water usage and extra water heating costs. Depending on the hot water system you own, some even offer you the option of installing a timer or scheduling hot water usage during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower electricity tariffs.

Upgrade to an energy-efficient hot water system

If you are in the market for a new hot water system, take the time to investigate the range of energy-efficient models on offer. Better still, chat with the team at Salmon Plumbing for expert advice on the best unit for your home. Everyone’s water usage and requirements differ so it’s important to choose the system that fits your household needs.

Modern water heaters come with a range of features – everything from improved insulation to smart controls that allow for better temperature regulation. Whilst the initial outlay may hurt the hip pocket, factor in the long-term savings. It’s a worthwhile investment, especially in Brisbane’s climate. And don’t forget to enquire about any available rebates, incentives, or energy-saving programs offered by the government or your local utility providers. You might find an offer that will accelerate your return on investment.

If you’re keen to reduce water heating costs, Brisbane specialists Salmon Plumbing are here to help. Get in touch today.

4 Signs Your Hot Water System May Be Dying

Water leaking from the base of unit can be a sign of dying hot water systems

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.

Rusty water coming from your hot tap can be a sign of dying hot water systems

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!

Don’t let hot water system woes leave you cold!
Get in touch with Salmon Plumbing today.

Hot Water Tank Valve Replacement and How it Saves You Water and Energy

When your hot water system was first installed, your plumber will have left you with a system manual, a warranty, and a recommendation to arrange routine hot water servicing which includes replacing the tempering valves every five years.

But if that was a while ago, your memories are probably a little hazy – so if you haven’t been thinking about your hot water valves since then, we don’t blame you! It seems like such a small thing – what difference could it really make?

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Don’t Ignore Your Hot Water System Anode Service – Here’s Why

Your hot water system anode is an essential part of your hot water storage unit, so you need to take care of it. It is one part of the system that often goes unnoticed and if neglected can lead to significant costs down the line. As such, it’s essential to replace it at least every five years. Here’s what you need to know about this mysterious part.

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