5 Signs Your Hot Water System Is Broken

You never take your hot water system for granted once it breaks. Getting up bleary-eyed and stumbling into the shower and reaching for the tap only to have cold water fall on you is not an experience people want! Often people don’t pay any attention to their hot water system until it stops working. We recommend a hot water service every 2 years to make sure you don’t wake up to cold showers but also to make sure it’s running properly not causing your water or energy bills to go up. 

There are other signs other than a cold shower that you should pay attention to and give us a call to fix.

1. Rusty Water

If you notice brown or orange deposits in your hot water, it’s a clear indication of a problem with your tank or system. Rust is the culprit behind this discolouration. If both your cold and hot water taps produce rusty water, it may be a plumbing issue. However, if only the hot water tap has rusty water or small black particles, it points to a problem with your water heater. Regular check-ups and maintenance of your water heater can help prevent this.

2. Low Pressure

Weak water flow from your taps could signify a blockage in the line or a malfunctioning pressure regulator. Pressure regulator problems are often caused by leaks or worn gaskets inside the regulator. Repairing the leak or replacing damaged gaskets can help resolve pressure-related issues from within. Mineral deposits can also contribute to reduced hot water pressure by blocking the pipes. Over time, these deposits accumulate and hinder the flow of water from the tank.

3. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Inconsistent water temperature in your hot water tank is typically caused by mineral deposits building up around the water heating components. These deposits can reduce the tank’s hot water holding capacity by taking up valuable space. While minor mineral build-up can be easily removed, severe deposits in older or heavily damaged water heaters may require replacement rather than repair.

4. Internal Tank Leak

When a water heater tank develops cracks, corrosion, or leaks from the inside, it compromises its durability and ability to handle internal pressure. Lack of regular maintenance is the most common cause of internal tank leaks. Regular inspections can identify small issues before they escalate and cause significant damage. If there is an internal leak in the tank, it’s essential to replace the water heater rather than attempt repairs.

5. Old Hot Water System 

Consider the age of your hot water system. Electric or similarly powered hot water systems typically have a lifespan of ten years, while gas hot water systems generally last 10 years. While proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your hot water system if it’s older than the recommended guidelines, repairs and maintenance may not be advisable. It’s worth considering a replacement to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Upgrade to a New Energy-Efficient Hot Water System 

As the chilly winter months approach in Melbourne, having a reliable and energy-efficient hot water system becomes important. If you find yourself facing hot water woes with an old system, it’s time to turn to Harley Plumbing. Not only is it the threat of a cold morning shower that might make you want to upgrade to a new hot water system, but it’s also the ever-rising cost of energy bills that might make you want a new hot water system.

With rising energy costs and environmental concerns, having an energy-efficient hot water system is more important than ever. A new energy-efficient system saves you money by using less energy plus reduces your home’s carbon footprint. Before choosing a new hot water system, assess your household’s hot water needs. Factors such as the number of occupants, daily hot water usage, and available space will help determine the most suitable system for your home. Harley Plumbing’s experienced team can give you advice on what size system to get. 

We offer a range of energy-efficient hot water systems such as solar hot water systems, heat pump systems, and high-efficiency gas systems. Click here to see our prices.