Have you recently noticed a fluctuation in your home’s hot water temperature? Is there an unexplained pool of water around your hot water system? Is your system outdated or is it still the same unit that was in the house when you moved in?
A yes answer to any of these questions means it may be time to have your hot water system assessed by the plumber Brisbane locals are using for regular maintenance. Hot water systems are an essential part of our daily lives. That is of course, if they’re working properly!
It May be Time to Assess Your Hot Water System
Having your home’s hot water system replaced can be quite costly. For this reason, many homeowners move it into the “deal with it only when it’s absolutely necessary” category of home maintenance.
However, this isn’t also the best option. Ignoring a small cheap repair can quickly turn into a more expensive issue down the line. To help prevent this, we’ve drawn up a list of the top signs that you should be looking out for to avoid a costly replacement.
1. Your Hot Water System May be Old
Your hot water system may have run perfectly when you first moved into your home. This will unfortunately not last forever. Hot water systems, like any other mechanical items around your home, have an expiration date.
Typically, hot water systems can last between eight and twelve years, depending on varying factors such as regularity of maintenance, and the quality of water. However, an increase in demand, such as a growing family, can put additional pressure on the components. If you haven’t done any work on your hot water system in about five years, it may be a good idea to have a plumber perform a routine check.
2. You Start Seeing Rust Coloured Water
One of the most obvious signs of a faulty water system is the appearance of murky or rust-coloured water. Old, rusty components will cause the water to become hazy and may even be accompanied by a metallic smell.
In some instances, the water flowing from your taps may run from murky to clear after a few minutes. Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. It just means that the issue is only beginning. It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible.
3. There are Strange Sounds in the Pipes
It’s common for your hot water system to make the occasional sound. This has to do with the expansion and contraction of materials in hot and cold temperatures. However, if you start hearing new sounds, it could be a sign of a potential problem.
A common example of this is a faulty heating element that often creates rattling and banging noises that sound like they’re coming from inside the system. Some homeowners have also reported hissing and clunking sounds that don’t sound like any noises they would normally associate with their water systems.
4. Fluctuating Water Temperatures
Another clear indication that you may need to call your plumber is a sudden fluctuation in the usual water temperature. In some cases, this starts out as simple variations and moves onto more extreme fluctuations.
That means, your water can go from cold to scalding and sometimes nothing in between. You may also notice that the unit can no longer provide hot water throughout the day, resulting in only a few hours of hot water. Inconsistent water pressure may also accompany the fluctuating water temperature.
This can often be a result of a faulty thermostat or heating element. If you’ve never replaced either of these components, it’s a good starting point. Fortunately, a thermostat is considerably cheaper to repair than a complete hot water system.
5. There’s Signs of Water Drips and Leaks
If you’re waiting for a blatantly obvious sign of a problem, you’ll get in the form of a leak under or around your hot water system. Unfortunately, this sign is the worst of the lot as it generally means your water system has reached the “beyond repair” stage.
In addition to a complete failure of your hot water system, leaking water can also damage the area around the unit. In addition to damage to the flooring, there is also the risk of an electrical shock.
Avoid additional damage by calling your local plumber or emergency plumber immediately when you first notice the leak. Ask for specific directions to follow regarding switching the unit off while you’re waiting for the plumber. Be sure to keep family members and pets away from the area.
Final Thoughts
A small issue with your hot water system doesn’t necessarily mean you will need to have the unit replaced. If caught early enough, your plumber may be able to repair or replace a few minor components which will reduce the need for costly system overhauls. Not only will this mean you have hot water when you need it, but you’ll also reduce the risk of more permanent damage!
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.