Water heaters can be described as a reliable appliance that delivers hot water on a regular basis. A working water heater is vital if you live in Australia.
If your hot water heater stops functioning suddenly, you need to get immediate help. It is not a good idea to use cold water for showering.
You should check all possible causes of your hot water heater not working. Find out why your hot water heater isn’t working and the causes.
A hot water system not working is the worst thing. The leftovers from dishes are building up in the sink while the kids complain about the frosty shower.
In this situation, it is best to call a hot water plumber. Sometimes, however, you may just want to fix the problem yourself. It’s important to understand what you are looking for.
Common Water Heater Issues
A water system that isn’t functioning can be caused by many issues. It could be something as simple as an improper setting or a lack of tank maintenance.
Or it may be more complicated and require replacement of certain parts. It doesn’t mean your hot water system needs to be replaced. These are common problems with hot water heaters and the simple solutions to fix them.
Hot Water Never Comes Out When You Turn It On
Cold water flowing from your hot water taps It often caused by a bad power connection. It is possible that your circuit breaker is tripping. Check your power supply. A blown fuse can occur when there is a faulty part in the system.
It is advisable to call a licensed hot water electrician to check the switchboard if the switch has tripped.
Wrong-Sized Water Heater
Your water heater may not be producing enough hot water to meet your household’s needs. When choosing a hot-water system, ensure that your household’s demand is not greater than the heater’s delivery ability.
The industry standard is to allocate 50L of hot water per person per day plus some additional for washing up etc. So for a four person household with an electric off-peak storage tank, the recommended capacity for this home is 250 Litres or more.
It can sometimes be difficult to replace the whole hot water unit when the system is undersized. In this instance, you may be able to reduce the time it takes to shower or wash your dishes and laundry.
A defective heating element or thermostat could also be a reason for hot water not being supplied. This can lead to the need for some parts to be replaced by licensed tradesmen.
There’s a Leak
Water leaks are caused by tank corrosion, loose pipework or valves. It is important to repair a water leak as soon as possible, as it can cause damage to your home, particularly if it is wood flooring. If the source of the leak is tank corrosion, it may not be repairable.
Turn off the water and drain the tank to stop any further damage. A licensed plumber can inspect the tank to determine if it is in good condition and needs to be replaced.
Mineral Deposits in the Hot Water system
Mineral deposits will build up over time at the bottom of a hot water cylinder. They eventually accumulate. Old steel water pipes also may have deposits that settle on the base of the pipe. In both of these instances, this can prevent hot water flow.
If the water flow is disrupted, it will reduce the efficiency of the system by restricting the heat transfer to the water. This can be slowed down by a water softening system, but it is possible to eliminate the problem by draining your tank at least once per year.
If there is rust in your tank, or you’re getting discoloured hot water, it is time to replace the system. This is the lead indicator of a failed hot water system, so do not wait for your tank to burst.
Your Hot Water System Has Died Due to Old Age
Old age can sometimes be the cause of a household appliance not working suddenly. It will stop working properly if it becomes too worn and old. There is no fault in the device. Water heaters typically last between 10 and 15 years.
However, they will lose their effectiveness over time. It will require constant repairs and could result in higher energy consumption.
Sometimes, replacing your hot water heater is the best way to resolve problems. Hot Water System Repairs can be costly, and more frequent repairs will be required for older units.
Installation costs for hot water systems vary. Because the pipes and connections for the replacement are already in place, it is sometimes less expensive to replace the unit than doing extensive repairs.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance and annual servicing are the best ways to prolong the life of your water heater. An efficient unit will last for over 10 years. Routine maintenance will take care of key components such as the thermostat, heating element, and sacrificial anode.
Your hot water system will be more efficient if it is maintained in top condition for longer. The area of the water should be kept free of debris, plant matter, and nesting animals.
For any emergency repairs or maintenance in Australia, call a specialist hot water plumbing expert. They will keep your hot water in top condition!
Also read: Why Is My Hot Water System Tripping The Safety Switch?
