6 Signs Your Hot Water Service Needs Repairs

Hot Water Service Repairs – key warning signs to know when you need it and how to respond – explore more.

Until the hot water runs out, many of us fail to realise just how important it is to our day-to-day lives. From showers to laundry and dishwashing, hot water serves a wide variety of purposes. This is why a faulty unit represents such a major inconvenience.

Hot water tanks and units exhibit various signs that let us know a problem has occurred. While these problems range from minor to major, it remains vital that everyone in the home or workplace understands when to act.

Signs your hot water service needs repair

So, how exactly can you spot the early signs and prevent your hot water from running out? We have compiled 7 of the key warning signs in this article. Keep reading to find out more.

#1 Inconsistent Water Temperatures

A well-functioning hot water unit should deliver the exact temperatures you need, from showers to kitchen sinks and everywhere in between. Therefore, if you are not receiving the desired temperature, or the water is not reaching the same level of warmth as it once was, chances are there is an issue with the unit itself.

If you are not experienced with hot water service systems, the best course of action is to contact experienced plumbers in your local area. These plumbers should be able to conduct an assessment, as well as carry out any follow up maintenance and repairs.

#2 Low Water Flow

Water flow is another tell-tale sign and indication of your unit’s functionality level. Anyone that has experienced a sudden low flow shower will tell you just how inconvenient this can be – Especially first thing in the morning!

Low water pressure is caused by a wide variety of different issues. Some of the most common include blocked filters, debris, faulty valves, and water leaks. Detecting the underlying cause can be difficult and is typically best identified by a trained professional.

Of course, we should note that some modern showers, taps and fixtures are purpose designed to cap water flow at a certain level. However, even amongst these systems, variance in flow can still occur. Any concerns around this aspect can always be addressed by reaching out to a local plumber.

#3 You Own an Older Unit

Whether you have lived in your current residence for a long time or just moved in to a new home, the age of the property’s hot water service plays a major role to its ongoing effectiveness.

Depending on its age and quality, your heater/unit may require replacement. Luckily, this is often provided by the very same plumber that conducts the inspection. Plumbers can work with you to find an affordable replacement that is well suited to its environment.

#4 Cloudy/Murky Water

The appearance of rusty, murky or cloudy water can be alarming. While it does not necessarily pose a risk to your health, nobody wants to shower or wash the dishes with rusted water. Alongside the other warning signs listed, this is a fairly common indication that your hot water service is past it’s used by date.

So, what actually causes this to occur?

Most hot water units are made of metal. As a result, they are prone to rust when left wet or situated in environments that are constantly exposed to moisture. The sacrificial anodes located inside hot water storage tanks are also crucial to rust prevention. If they are not replaced within a certain timespan, your unit will be far more likely to rust.

#5 Unusual/Off-Putting Odours

The next warning sign is exclusive to gas based hot water services. If you notice a rotten egg smell that lingers anyone near the water tank, this may be a sign of a gas leak. Remember, gas leaks of any kind are very serious and must be handled with caution. When unchecked, a gas leak puts your property at risk of fires and even explosions. Another negative consequence of the leak will be a spiraling gas bill.

Any gas leak emanating from a hot water service must be checked by licensed plumbers immediately.

This will ensure that the problem is handled in a safe manner for all involved. In addition, this visit may also result in your plumber recommended a replacement unit.

Put simply, gas leaks should never be taken lightly. Act fast and stay safe.

#6 The Pilot Light is Yellow

Our final point once again concerns gas based systems. Many gas water tanks will feature a pilot light that should appear in a bright blue colour. Should your unit display a yellow light, please proceed with caution.

A yellow pilot light is perhaps one of the worst possible warning signs one can witness. Why? The yellow light is generally an indication that the unit is producing carbon monoxide – a potentially deadly substance. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause nausea, disorientation, vomiting, headaches and other troubling symptoms (including death in extreme circumstances).

It is vital that you contact local plumbers as soon as a yellow pilot light appears.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, a hot water tank can display a wide variety of warning signs. These signs stretch from minor problems to major instances that require emergency attention. Even if you simply want to keep the unit in working order, there is always value in contacting experienced plumbers. Reaching out to the professionals is critical to both your own personal safety and the prevention of serious property damage.

Get Local Plumbers to Conduct an Inspection

Although hot water issues are inconvenient, you can have peace of mind that there are countless reputable plumbers available to assist – particularly if you live in a major city such as Melbourne or Sydney. If you already have a relationship with a plumber, this process will be simple and easy to arrange.

For others in the opposite position, there is still good news – plumbers are easier to find and contact than ever before. A simple search for hot water service plumbers + your local suburb should yield the results you are looking for.

Regardless of how you find or contact these plumbers, it is always a good idea to arrange a professional inspection.