Hot Water Services
When do I need to replace my hot water?
Your hot water system is one of the most utilised appliances in your home. From washing dishes to laundry and taking showers, an average household consumes 450L a day. Imagine how all these activities exert a toil in your water heater. So when do you need to call a water heater replacement service? Here are some scenarios that you should watch out for.
1. Your hot water bursts.
There are many causes behind a burst hot water heater. It could be that the tank has built up pressure due to a malfunctioning pressure relief valve, or rust has occupied most parts of the tank and created a pin hole causing the unit to leak.
What should you do if your hot water bursts?
In hot water emergencies like this, it is important to first locate and shut off the source of power. Doing so will prevent energy loss, electrocution and even fire. If it is an electrical hot water system, flip the breaker in the electrical box to off. If it is a gas hot water system, shut off the gas supply at the water heater or the gas mains.. Once you have isolated the power supply, turn off your water at either the water meter at the front of your house or at the isolation point athe hot water service. Once the area is cleared and safe, take photos of the damage so you can make insurance claims if required.
2. Your hot water is old.
The average lifespan of a hot water system is 10 years. We usually recommend a hot water system replacement when your product warranty is up or it exceeded its expiry. The life of your water heater varies based on the manufacturer, the fuel type, and frequency of usage. If you have been renting or living in your home for more than 8 years and could not recall ever having hot water heater replacement, it is time to do a quick inspection and check the labels. If you don’t know the age of your water heater, Rheem has a water heater age verifier online if you have the serial number. Visit the page here.
For other brands, you can check the manufacturing date and add 10 years to it to get a rough estimate.
3. Your hot water tank is leaking.
Have you seen a small leak in your water tank? You can check the fittings are in place and the drain valve is not loose. If you suspect the leaking is in the inner tank, it is time for a hot water tank replacement.
What are the steps to follow for hot water system replacement?
When you choose the hot water tank, you should think beyond your budget for the hot water installation. Consider the running costs and energy efficiency of the hot water units too.
1. Decide fuel or energy source.
There are a number of products from the market. The most common in Australia are the electrical hot water systems and natural gas hot water systems. Another energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option is to use a solar-boosted hot water system.
2. Decide the type of hot water you are after.
There are a number of products from the market. The most common in Australia are the electrical hot water systems and natural gas hot water systems. Another energy-efficient and environmentally friendly option is to use a solar-boosted hot water system.
Here is a brief comparison of the pros and cons of each type:
Types | Pro’s | Con’s |
Storage | It has a lower purchase cost if compared to other types. | There is a standby heat loss to keep the water hot, which roughly translates to money out of your pocket as it runs. It has a high operating cost and does not work during brownouts. |
Tankless (Instant or Continuous Flow) | There are an on-demand and countless supply of hot water. | This might not be good for households with multiple users, as this might put a strain on your hot water unit with the excessive demand going on simultaneously. |
Heat Pump | It has lower operating costs than a storage hot water. It gives off cool air which is a plus during summer. | The compressors of heat pumps tend to be noisy. (However, newer models are quieter). You need to have considerable space for its setup. It generates cold air that might not be helpful during winter. |
Solar | It requires the least maintenance and helps you save on energy bills. This is good for regions with warmer climates. | It has the highest upfront installation costs. |
3. Determine the size of the hot water system that you need.
This largely depends on how many users are in the household and how much litres of hot water is consumed during the peak hours. Hot water also come in different standard capacity or sizes:
Electric hot water systems:
- 25 litres
- 50 litres
- 80 litres
- 125 litres
- 160 litres
- 250 litres
- 315 litres
- 400 litres
Gas storage hot water systems:
- 90 litres
- 135 litres
- 175 litres
Gas continuous flow water heaters:
- 16 litres
- 20 litres
- 26 litres
Most Common Mistakes People Make When it Comes to Hot Water Replacement
If you are regularly inspecting your hot water system, you might notice minor problems that could possibly alert you to replace your hot water earlier. These hot water maintenance activities could range from flushing your hot water tank to checking your TP valve and fittings.
No one likes to suffer a cold shower or bath. Often times, hot water damage catches homeowners and property managers by surprise. It is important for you to avoid these common mistakes that people make when they replace their hot water.
Not enough research
It is normal for people to replace their old hot water system with the same brand. Oftentimes, this idea might go against you. As technology evolves, there might be hot water products that might suit your current situation. For example, if your household has become bigger and there are alternative fuel sources that will help you save on your water heating bills, it could make a difference. You also have to check the manufacturer that would give you the most support especially in after-sales.
Overlooking professional installers
You might know old Tom or a neighbour who has recently told you they can install hot water heaters. Putting your trust blindly on people who might not be apt for the job might backfire and increase your installation costs. Always make sure that you contact a hot water plumber or hot water specialist who has ample experience in installing hot waters especially the brand that you are going to install.
Call the Plumbing and Electrical Doctor
The Plumbing and Electrical Doctor has replaced over a thousand hot water systems all over ACT and NSW. If you need a hot water plumber that you can trust and give you the pros and cons of the current hot water systems products available in the market, the Doctor gets it done for you. Book an appointment though chat or give us a call through our hotline.
THE DOCTOR GETS IT DONE
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