Don't wait for you Hot Water System to fail!

You can avoid the headache associated with a broken down Hot System System by looking out for these 5 signs that your Hot Water System is on it's way out. Checking these 5 things could also be the difference between repair or replacement.

1) Age
Age will play a large part in the decision to replace your Hot Water System. Different types of storage and Hot Water Systems will have varying life lengths. Not sure how old your Hot Water System is? you can check. The date of manufacture is provided on the system in the form of a serial number - I.E F051052638. F is for the month and F is the sixth letter in the alphabet, so it represents the sixth month, June. Next, the first two digits of the serial number are 05, which represents the year, 2005. So this water heater was made in June 2005. Each manufacturer has a similar date code, and they can vary; check the manufacturer’s website to learn more.

2) Noise
Is your Hot Water System noisy? Hissing, Sizzling, Rumbling or Banging..... These are the things to check: Hissing or Sizzling - may be the relief valve and need replacing, Rumbling or Banging - Often these sounds will be associated with the system when it is heating up. This is a sign that the Hot Water System is coming close to the end of it's life.

3) Rust
Rust within your Hot Water? This could be an indicator that the system is rusting from the inside, and will begin to leak soon. Rust on the outer of your Hot Water System? indicates you probably have a leak... you can try tightening or replacing the fittings. Often Hot Water System leaks are difficult to fix and it's best to get a professional in to take a look and do any repairs.

4) Water around your Hot Water System
If you see water around the Hot Water Unit it could be a simple leak or a fracture in the tank. As the metal heats, it expands and if there are slight fractures, water may leak from the tank. Once the metal has cooled the inner tank will stop leaking. However, before rushing out to replace your Hot Water System, do a thorough check to see if there are no other leaks coming from the unit. Check the temperature / overflow pipe for leaks also. If everything appears dry it's probably time to replace your Hot Water System. If you find a leak, call a professional as leaks can be tricky to repair yourself.

5) No Hot Water
Is your Hot Water still hot? If your showers are turning cold half way through or if the Hot Water tap just doesn't seem to be getting hot, you may have a failing Hot Water System. However, before rushing out to get a new unit, if it's under 10 years old and doesn't seem to be showing any other issues, it could be a faulty thermostat or heating element. You can try resetting the thermostat, if this does not work call in a professional to check and replace.

If it turns out you do need a new Hot Water System things to consider are:
Solar, Electric or Gas
Size of the Hot Water Heater you need for your household
Speak to our specialist to discuss options which would best suit your household to ensure you have the correct amount of hot water for the least amount of money.

If you need simple repair work or a new system and installation give 24/7 Hotwater Direct a call and speak to Al for all the information you need and get a free quote.