A hot water system is a part of your property that you usually do not notice unless it begins to malfunction. When you start to have a cold shower or cold water, or your kitchen tap takes forever to heat up, you think, ‘How long have I had this tank?’ or ‘Is it time for a new hot water system?’
If you’ve got a hot water system not working correctly, even if it’s a new hot water system, it’s one of the plumbing emergencies you must not ignore. Other plumbing problems can wait a while, but not your malfunctioning hot water system.
For instance, hot water is necessary when you shower during a cold winter night. If you quickly run out of hot water every time you shower, the heater might have some issues. You need to contact emergency plumbing services right away under such circumstances.
Hot water is one of the most vital plumbing supplies for your home. Contacting emergency plumbing services can help maintain the water heater so you don’t run out of hot water.
Replacing your hot water unit is a straightforward task that should only be done by a licensed plumber or hot water professional. Attempting to change a water tank on your own can lead to complications that may cost you more to rectify.
Keep reading for tips and suggestions on when to replace your water system and indicators of a failing tank.
Do You Need A New Hot Water Tank?
Need a Plumbing Service?
A faulty water heater can be hard to spot if you don’t know what to look for. The general rule is to replace your hot water unit every 8-12 years. You can check for the installation date on the hot water system. If the date states it’s been over five years, it may be time to look at a hot water system replacement.
Even though your water system seems to be working fine, the age of the unit may affect its functionality. Wear and tear and regular use can hinder its performance with anything in life.
Older hot water systems can affect the quality and delivery of heating. Even though you carry out regular servicing on the tank, you may need to look at an upgraded heater.
Lifestyle changes like a growing family will impact your heating needs. More family members mean more showers and an increase in heating. Your hot water system needs to work effectively and provide adequate heating.
An enormous household typically consumes a more significant amount of energy. Therefore, the system’s size is essential to effectively service heating water. A small water system will be limited to the litres it can produce.
The Signs Of A Hot Water Heater Going Bad
Corrosion
Rusty pipes and tanks signify a sacrificial anode rod that must be replaced. The anode rod will rust, so your heater doesn’t have to. This can make the water in your house turn brown and change the taste. Rust around the hot water system could be an indicator of its environment. For instance, if your water system is damp, rust could form at the bottom of the tank.
Noise
Various reasons can cause noisy water heaters. The most common cause is sediment and minerals floating around inside the water. The sediment can get trapped underneath the heater and form a blockage. If the water has been reduced inside the heater, steam bubbles will form.
Noises indicate issues with the heating element or something loose internally.
Leaks
A leaking water heater can indicate a burst valve or pipe connection. If water leaks at the top of the hot water heater, it may be a faulty water supply pipe. Water from fittings and pipework rapidly is dangerous as the water heater bursts.
A water leak at the base of the hot water system signifies a broken heating element. Corrosion can form at the system’s bottom, weakening the fittings and valves connected to the hot water heater.
Another cause is a build-up of pressure. When you have hot water, steam will be present.
Dirty Water
If you notice cloudy or dirty water from your taps, sediment may float inside the water system. You could also have corroded pipework that is contaminating your water.
Valves
Your hot water system comprises various valves, such as pressure relief and tempering valves. These are important as they regulate the temperature and pressure safely. These valves do fail and need to be replaced regularly or repaired.
The water temperature is low.
Hot water systems suffer from low-temperature issues if there is a leak in the valves, fittings, or pipework. The heating element in an electric hot water system may be burnt, or the thermostat could be faulty.
Low water pressure
Low water pressure is a problem that can originate from faulty plumbing and pipework, or your hot water system cannot keep up with the heated water demands of your household.
You must replace faulty valves and ensure all fittings run optimally.
Also, the position of the heater in the house will determine the time it takes for hot water to reach your shower and taps.
Should I Repair or Replace My Hot Water System?
Need a Plumbing Service?
The choice is up to you. There are many factors to consider. It may be more cost-effective to upgrade to a new system. Repairs are okay for short-term solutions. Alternatively, replacing a valve or repairing a fitting may do the trick if your hot water system is under five years old. But if your water system is over ten years old, installing a new tank can save you from costly minor repairs and services.
Suppose no repair is enough to fix your hot water system. Well, nothing lasts forever; shop for a replacement.
You can try new models or stick to your old and tested brand. But you need to consider your budget. A hot water system is a significant investment, but you could save on your bill rather than maintain a faulty one or buy a low-quality one.
You must also consider how much hot water you need and whether to have a water tank or go tankless. You must also take into account your water usage, property, and household size. And consider how energy efficient you want to be. Every model and type has advantages and disadvantages.
Contact a licensed plumber. They can advise on a new hot water system that is perfect for your needs.
Whether maintenance and regular services are carried out on your system or a new hot water system installation, call a professional plumbing team to help you.
