When your hot water suddenly stops working, it can come as a shock. Checking the hot water system is rarely thought about until something fails. Our emergency plumbing experts at Newman and Barker Plumbing outline the signs your hot water system needs to be repaired or replaced.
1. Lukewarm or cold water
No hot water is the most obvious sign that your hot water system is in need or repair or replacement.
2. Discoloured water
Discoloured water is not normal. Brown water can be caused by rusting within the pipes or inside the heater itself. This is a sign that the hot water system is about to start leaking.
3. Irregular water pressure
If the water pressure seems low, the problem could be as simple as the home using too much water. It can also be a sign that the hot water system needs replacing.
4. Strange noises
Hot water systems are designed to be silent. If you hear strange noises such as clanging when the water is turned on, it is a sign it needs to be checked. When sediment builds up inside the heater, it hardens, and the tank has to use more pressure to heat the water. This causes noise and is a sign that your hot water system needs urgent attention.
5. Your hot water system has past its use-by date
How old us your water heater system? A standard water heater should have a useful life of 8-12 years depending on how it has been maintained. If it is pushing the 10-year mark, this is the perfect time to replace it instead of waiting for a total breakdown. For hot water system maintenance tips, click here.
6. There is a puddle around the hot water tank
A water tank leak can indicate a serious problem. If you notice standing water around the appliance or there is a visible leak in the water heater, then this is an obvious sign that you need a replacement. Unfortunately there is no repair for a leaking tank and trying to operate with a leaking one keeps you at a risk of flooding or serious failures in the near future. It is important to check where the water or the leak is coming from. Some leaks like those coming from valves may be repaired but not the tank itself. Always remember to check other areas such as pressure overflow pipe and other connections for leaks before replacement. If you’re noticing any of the above signs, it’s wise to call a plumber sooner rather than later, to prevent a minor issue from escalating.
7. Drain valve not working
Over time, the bottom of the water tank’s heater will start collecting sediment. As the sediment starts building up, it can break down the tank interior, clogging the drain valve and stopping the water from coming out. Sometimes a blocked drain valve can result in leaks.
8. Metallic smell and taste
If your water has a metallic taste and smell, it is a sign that the water heater is breaking down. This can be caused by corrosion from the inside. Rusting the water tank or wearing off the heating element could be another reason for this. Metal in the water is hazardous health, and thus you need to have the water heater replaced immediately.
Hiring the right emergency plumber in Sydney
Do you have a plumbing emergency? Newman and Barker Plumbing specialise in plumbing emergencies, hot water system repairs and servicing. Our hot water services cover both gas and electric systems. Other specialties include backflow prevention testing, commercial plumbing, and gas plumbing.
Our plumbers cover a wide service area of Sydney, including Campbelltown, Narellan, Thirlmere, Camden, Bowral, Tahmoor, Appin, Bargo, Picton, Wilton, Mittagong, Braemar, Wattle Ridge, Yerrinbool and Hill Top.
For more information and quotes, contact our hot water specialists at Newman and Barker Plumbing on (02) 4625 5409 or online here. You can also connect with us on Facebook.