We all know how vital water is to life on Earth—especially when you need a steaming hot shower at the end of a tough day at the office. But you also need hot water on tap for the dishes, the bath, and many other uses in a smooth-running household. So, if you think you’ve noticed leakage in your hot water system, it’s not something to ignore.
Why’s that? Because right now, a hot water system leakage may not seem a big deal. But tomorrow, a hot water system leak can create an almighty mess, a massive bill, and angry family members screaming about cold water coming out of the hot taps.
Hot water cylinder leaking? Deal with it today!
It’s no surprise that many people ignore a leaking hot water tank. Often, your hot water heater will keep producing hot water, which seems no big deal. But you could have a significant problem lurking around the corner due to hot water system leaks. Depending on the gravity of the situation, you may need a professional to check on your hot water heater leaks.
So if you’re tempted to ignore the leaks in your hot water system or even the leaks in your pressure relief, may it be a gas hot water system or electric, think again:
1. Do your maintenance
An expensive hot water service with an extended warranty means you can trust it will keep working, right? Wrong!
While this household appliance may be low-maintenance and relatively trustworthy, it’s essential not to forget about it. So now and then, give your system a once-over—from the tank to the pressure relief valve to the hot water supply—because a leaking water tank is a sign that something is wrong.
Also, pull out the manual and flick to the maintenance section, which will almost certainly include a section about how often to test the relief valve.
2. Investigate your leak
Is your hot water cylinder leaking from somewhere? Is the leak coming from the pressure relief (PRV) or temperature relief valve (PTRV)? That is not great news. But it’s not the time to panic! We know that a leak can be stressful, but don’t jump to conclusions until you (and your excellent local plumber!) have had a closer look.
Firstly, you may have correctly diagnosed your tank leaking. Also possible is that the drips are coming from somewhere else or just a part of a deeper problem. It could be the hot water cylinder leaking, but it might also be a much more innocent pipe — or something else entirely! Faulty T&P valves, loose pipe fittings, and tank or cold water inlet valves cause water leaks from the top.
Check the Pressure Relief Valves created to release pressure inside the tank. They regularly expel small amounts of water, which may cause a pool of water.
High water pressure in your house can cause a leaky system. If this is the root cause of your problem, you only need to install a Pressure-Limiting Valve (PLV).
Also noteworthy is that if you’ve misdiagnosed a leaking hot water system, you may still need the help of that friendly local plumber to diagnose another problem with your household plumbing.
3. Bite the bullet and call your plumber!
Even if you’re a whizz with a plunger and a wrench, your leaking tank is NOT an excuse to indulge your DIY love.
Why’s that? Firstly, a hot water system isn’t as cheap as chips. Secondly, remember that plumbers and gasfitters must be licensed for a good reason — because hot water heater repairs, your home and family’s safety is no joke. Next, tinkering with your leaking water tank might affect your all-important warranties and insurance. Lastly, you could find yourself in hot water if you go alone and fail to get the mandatory compliance certificate that proves the work is up to Australian standards.
So, don’t change into your DIY overalls for leaking hot water systems; call a plumber instead.
4. Prepare for your plumber’s arrival
But just because you shouldn’t indulge your love of DIY with a water tank leaking profusely, there are still things you should do before your plumber gets to your place to deal with your hot water systems.
First, turn the water mains off to prevent a flood and further damage your system and property. But only turn off the water supply after filling up some bottles (and maybe even the bath) so the family can still drink and wash while the work is being done.
5. Also, turn off the power/gas
And when dealing with a malfunctioning appliance, it’s also a great idea to turn the power off. It’s recommended for your hot water services to have a circuit breaker. Find the remote switch that is probably marked hot water in your power box if your leaking hot water is electric. And for a gas system, turn the dial to’ off’ on the unit itself. If the top or bottom of your electric or solar hot water system is leaking, turning off the electricity in your house on your power board is essential.
Finally, prepare for a hot water system leakage, which could mean you are now in the market for a new system. We can help you decide between gas and electric.
Hot water service leaking? We can help with that!
It’s not good news when you discover a hot water service leaking everywhere. Avoid working on your hot water system. A faulty hot water system requires professional hands.
The bright side is you’ve got Fixed Today, Sydney hot water system experts on your side. Our hot water specialists have accumulated thousands of hours of experience in hot water system technology, repairs, maintenance, advice and replacements of electric, gas and solar hot water systems. We can also check your water supply and water pressure. So don’t ignore that leaking water tank; instead, call Fixed Today, your hot water specialist, on 1800 349 338 for all your hot water system issues.
