Hot Water System Not Working? Here's Why | 2024 Update
Imagine stepping into a freezing shower on a cold morning. Brrr! A broken hot water system can put a real damper on your day. Don't worry, though! This blog is here to help you identify the common culprits behind a non-functional hot water system and get your hot water back FAST.
Understanding Your Hot Water System
Most homes in Australia use either gas or electric hot water systems. While they use different fuel sources, both types work similarly by heating water stored in a tank.
Why Your Hot Water System Isn't Working: Top Culprits
There are several top culprits which can cause your hot water system to not work properly or not work at all. Let’s dive in.
No Power or Gas Supply (It's Not Magic!)
Electricity: Check if the power switch near your hot water system is turned on. Look for tripped circuit breakers in your fuse box. (See image of a fuse box)
Gas: Ensure the gas supply valve is open. Check the gas meter gauge – if the needle isn't in the normal operating range, there might be a larger gas supply issue. (See images of a gas meter and gas shutoff valve)
Thermostat Issues (The Temperature Boss)
The thermostat regulates the water temperature in your hot water system. Here are some signs it might be playing up:
No hot water coming out at all
Water is boiling hot
Inconsistent water temperature (it keeps going up and down)
Water Pressure Problems (Not Too High, Not Too Low)
Both low and high water pressure can affect your hot water system's performance. Common causes of water pressure issues include:Leaking pipes
Clogged/ broken pressure relief valve
Sediment Build-Up (The Silent Threat)
Over the years, sediment can build up within your water boiler/ hot water tank. This reduces the efficiency and hot water volume over time. Signs of the sediment build up include:
A slow decrease in the amount of hot water available.
You find yourself saying to the family “who used all the hot water“
You’re standing in the cold shower for moments waiting for the hot water to come through. This amount of time will increase as the sediment to come through.
Troubleshooting Tips
For a range of the common causes mentioned above, you can try the following to troubleshoot:
Reset the thermostat: Locate the thermostat and follow your user manual for specific instructions. Commonly, you'll find a knob or dial you can adjust or turn to reset.
Check the pressure value: Find the pressure relief valve on your hot water tank (usually a pipe with a lever). It should be visually free of debris and not leaking.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are unsure about any of the above, call a professional plumber to take a look. We do NOT advise you to take on any risks which could cause you or your property harm.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Know your limits… Understand that there are things that should be handled with care, professionalism and training. Here’s some instances we suggest you should call us to check it out:
Leaking water heater: A leak can indicate a serious problem and could lead to water damage in your home.
Complex repairs: Replacing a faulty heating element or addressing extensive internal damage requires a qualified plumber.
Safety concerns: Gas leaks or electrical issues are best handled by a licensed professional.
The Consequences of Neglecting Hot Water System Issues
We understand you encounter enough problems in your day to day and sometimes people want to leave it to be tomorrow’s problem. However, there are consequences for not resolving your hot water system issues. These include:
Increased water bills: An inefficient system uses more energy to heat water.
Potential water damage: Leaks can cause significant damage to your property.
Risk of system failure: Putting off repairs can lead to a complete system breakdown, requiring a costly replacement.
The Benefits of Professional Hot Water System Repair and Maintenance
At Water Relief Plumbing we install, repair & replace all hot water systems 24/7 however having your system regularly serviced- helps you get the most out of your system (and keeps the hot water running!). Giving us a call has a range of advantages, including:
Quick diagnosis and repair: Costa and the team can diagnose the problem and fix it efficiently, minimising inconvenience.
Safety assurance: Professionals are trained to handle gas and electrical components safely.
Preventing future problems: Routine maintenance can identify potential issues early on, preventing major problems down the line.
Extending the lifespan of your hot water system: Proper care can keep your hot water system functioning optimally for years to come. For best results, we recommend servicing your hot water system every four years.
Hot Water System Repair Near Me
Looking for a hot water system repair nearby? We are your local hot water specialists, offering emergency plumbing. Specialising in electrical, gas and solar hot water systems, our reputation has been built on providing premium quality at competitive prices. Get in touch now.