Running hot water can easily be taken for granted. That is until your hot water system decides to pack it in.
Whether yours has just given up, or you’re worried something might be up, this article is for you. We’ll cover the early warning signs, what to look out for, and then the hard bit – how to go about choosing a new one.
How to tell if your hot water system is broken
There’s no good time for a hot water system to call it quits. Whether you were hoping for a morning shower or a relaxing hot bath in the evening – having that routine ripped from underneath your feet is never easy.
It’s a good idea to know the warning signs so you can get on top of the issue before the inevitable happens.
Here’s what to look out for:
- Hot water system is making strange sounds
- Hot water system is delayed in producing hot water
- Intermittent or lukewarm water
- Your thermostat is reading wrong
- Pressure is weak and dismal
- Hot water system is making strange noises
Notice any of the above? It’s time to get a hot water system Perth plumber to have a look. If you catch the problem early you may get away with a simple repair job and avoid getting a new one.
What is wrong with my hot water system?
Hot water systems can present a variety of issues throughout their lifetime. Some of these are preventable – like ensuring a service every year or so – others are just bad luck. Here are some probable causes:
Sediment build-up
Over time, sediment and debris can evade the filtration system and build up within the hot water system – causing a layer of sediment to build up at the bottom – preventing it from heating up properly.
Rust
Rust from years on the job can easily put an old hot water system out of action. This is usually a sign that it’s time to retire.
Loose bits
Sometimes internal parts can come loose and stop the system from running. Luckily this is easily repaired either DIY or with the help of a plumber.
It’s at the end of its life
Sometimes, it’s just at the end of its natural life, and there’s not much you can do. Check the date of making, and if it’s starting to push 7 or 8 years and it is faulty – you may well need to start shopping for a new one.
Looking for a new hot water system: where to start
So, you’ve decided it’s time for a new system. Getting the right hot water system Perth will mean you avoid potential problems in the future. But where to start? At this point, it’s helpful to contact a hot water specialist to carry out an assessment of your home and figure out which one is the best for your circumstances.
How can they help? With extensive knowledge and experience about hot water systems and their different capacities – they can tell you exactly which type and brand will suit you.
In helping you decide they’ll look at:
- The size of your home or business
- The number of water outlets and inhabitants
- Estimated water usage, taking into account your lifestyle and or commercial needs
- Existing utility connections and the efficacy of your last hot water system
Which hot water system should I choose?
There are a few different types of hot water systems available that will readily supply your home with perfectly hot running water. They are:
1. Electric
Electric hot water systems are easily installed on any property and are generally cheaper upfront compared to gas and (of course) solar systems. When it comes to ongoing costs, with rising electricity prices, this may not be the most sustainable option for your home.
2. Gas
If you’re after a more cost-effective option over the long term, gas hot water systems are a great alternative to electrical systems. While initial installation costs can be slightly more than electrical ones, they quickly pay off with lower bills throughout the year.
3. Solar
Solar is quickly growing into an effective and sustainable competitor to gas and electric hot water systems. Upfront costs will be higher than any other system as a typical family household will need at least 4 square metres of solar panel and a 300 litre tank to work properly.
Which is the best hot water system brand?
With many industry leaders supplying Australia and Perth with the highest quality hot water systems, it’s sometimes hard to choose which one is right. In truth, many of these household names including the likes of Bosch and Rheem represent quality and reliable hot water solutions that can easily be fitted into your home or business.
Get a professional opinion
If you’re having trouble choosing a brand, type, or have questions about installation, get in touch with your hot water plumbers in Perth and have a chat about which system is right for you. With a wealth of information and expertise, qualified Perth plumbers can easily advise you over the phone or in person as to which is the best way forward.