Below I have listed some very helpful tips for your hot water unit. These are simple things you can do that will save you money and hopefully eliminate the chance of an unexpected late night hot water emergency.
These tips not only ensure you have hot water when you need it, they can save you on your water and electricity bill but also have important safety checks.
If you follow the detailed instructions below you will get the most out of your Hot Water System.
1. Visually Inspect Hot Water Unit
- Check for any visible leaks or signs of corrosion
- If you notice any signs of scale or if fittings are green this is a good sign that there is either a leak or has been at some stage. What happens over time is that the fittings used expand and contract causing them to leak. The problem is if this is occurring it is only a matter of time before the fitting lets go causing a major leak.
2. Ensure There Is Good Ventilation Around The Unit
- Clear or clean any leaves, dirt or debris from around the base and sides of the unit.
- If there is not enough air flow around the base of the hot water unit and it is allowed to sit in water, it is only a matter of time until it gives way which means the expensive cost for installation of a new hot water system.
3. Check Relief Valve
- This is a safety device and needs to be operated every 3 months to ensure it is working correctly.
- If not in correct working order the pressure is unable to release and the system acts like a bomb.
- Simply lifting the lever gently for a few seconds will release water. It should shut off once placed back. If it doesn’t try again as sometimes grit can get caught under the valve.
- Give it a minute or two and if there is still a constant drip or flow the valve will need replacing.
- Check to see that the overflow pipe from the relief valve goes to a drain. If it doesn’t this can be a tripping hazard, attract termites and cause foundation problems.
- These valves can leak up to a couple of litres a day depending on hot water usage so don’t be alarmed but if it is constantly running it will need replacement.
4. Has The Anode Been Changed Recently?
- The sacrificial anode needs to be checked or replaced approximately every 3 years but depends on your water quality.
- By making sure you still have an anode in your hot water unit you will extend the life of your Hot water tank because it will attract all elements in the water that cause rust instead of rusting and damaging the system.
- This is something a qualified plumber will need to check and replace if required.
5. Is A Tempering Valve Installed?
- This is an important safety valve that protects your family from getting burned by hotwater by limiting the temperature that the water comes out of your bathroom fixtures.
- If you have young children this valve is a must
- This valve is installed outside near the hotwater unit and mixes the water so that the maximum temperature is 50 degrees Celsius.
- They are required by law to be installed on all new and replacement installations.
- It is something that can be done quite simply at minimal cost.
Hopefully the above information helps you out but if you need any help with the hot water inspection we are able to get one of our experts to come and see you.
If you find you have a problem please call our office so we can make sure you don’t have to have a cold shower.
Capital Plumbing are Gold Coast Plumbers and Brisbane Plumbers, here to help with any emergency plumbing issue you may have. We have after hours plumbers available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
