How to Tell If Your Hot Water System Needs Repairs?

Hot water is essential to everyday living. From cooking to cleaning to bathing, an average household will use varying degrees of hot water at least 8 to 10 times a day. However, over time your hot water tank may take some strain, and there is nothing worse than the shock of an icy shower or suddenly noticing that your hot water isn’t looking quite right. 

Which begs the question, how to tell If your hot water system needs repairs? Regular maintenance and repairs is a must to boost the longevity of your hot water system. On average, a hot water system should last you as long as 8 to 12 years, and with regular maintenance, it can last as long as 15. 

Still, you might run into an issue or two over its lifespan, and it’s essential to take quick action to fix your system. 

1. Your Hot Water Keeps Tripping the Electricity

This is a clear indicator that something might not be functioning correctly within your system. The main culprit is usually a faulty thermostat. However, it may also be an issue with the heating element or a leak which is dripping onto your main power lines.

It could also be an issue circuit breaker. However, if it’s only tripping when you turn on your hot water, the likelihood is that issue lies with your hot water system. 

2. You’ve Noticed A Leak

Puddles of water near your hot water tank are not supposed to be there. Leaks can be caused by various issues, including the expansion of your tank, loose fittings or connection or an issue with your overflow pipe.

Leaks are a significant problem and will cause your water bill to spike. Best to get it fixed right away.

3. Reduced Water Flow

Should you notice a sudden reduction in water pressure or flow, there is a chance of sediment or scale build-up within your tank. A continuous lack of water pressure is usually a pretty good warning sign that something is off with your system and needs checking. 

4. Irregular or A Lack of Hot Water

If you’re always running out of hot water or the hot water keeps fluctuating, it can mean one of many things are faulty within your hot water system. Either your heating element is not functioning correctly, your thermostat is misadjusted, or you might just have a too-small system for the space you are trying to supply with hot water.

5. A Noisy System

Older water heaters might have a low hum every time you turn on the hot water, and that shouldn’t be an issue. However, as soon as you start hearing rumbling, popping or crackling, it’s time to get concerned.

The noises are usually due to sediment or mineral build-up within your tank. This will weaken the structure of the tank and over time, can cause a more significant issue. 

6. Signs of Rust or Corrosion

Rust or corrosion is incredibly problematic and isn’t always visible. If you notice rust on your tank, around your tank or on any of the valves, inlets or pipes, it might be time to call a specialist. 

7. Discoloured Water

The water coming out of your taps and showerheads should always be clear. Perhaps a little misty if it’s hot water. However, the moment water is coming out looking brown, or with tiny particles in it, you have a problem.

Discoloured water is not only a health hazard but signifies a significant issue with your tank. While the solution may be as simple as flushing your system, it’s better to get it to check out. 

Most common problems can be a quick fix and shouldn’t be too cost-intensive. These repairs will also help boost the longevity of your system. However, sometimes you might need just to replace the system entirely. 

This will depend on:

• Age of Your System. If you know it’s an old system and has already had many repairs; maybe it’s time to upgrade. 
• The Issue. If the problem will be cost-intensive to fix, do some research to see if a new system might be worth it. 
• How Long You Intend to Stay. If you’re planning on moving soon anyway and the problem can be solved with a repair, don’t waste money on a whole new system. 

You won’t want to be stuck with ongoing issues or fighting for hot water on a day to day basis. If you suspect a problem with your hot water system, contact a local specialist to help you sort out the issue. The longer you leave, the more costly it could get. 

For professional hot water system servicing, contact Oleada today.