Your hot water system works hard every day, often without much thought, until something goes wrong. Whether you have an electric, gas, or solar hot water system, regular care can dramatically extend its lifespan, saving you from early replacement and costly repairs.
Schedule Regular Servicing
Just like a car, your hot water unit needs regular servicing to perform well. Most manufacturers recommend professional servicing every 1 to 2 years.
A full service includes:
- Inspecting the tank and valves for wear or corrosion
- Flushing sediment buildup from the tank
- Checking the pressure relief valve
- Testing the thermostat and element (for electric systems)
- Inspecting the burner and flue (for gas systems)
Our licensed plumbers at Collis Bros Plumbing can service all major brands and models across Sydney’s Northern Beaches and North Shore.
Flush the Tank to Prevent Sediment Buildup
Over time, minerals in your water, especially in hard water areas, settle at the bottom of the tank. This sediment can:
- Reduce heating efficiency
- Cause rumbling or popping noises
- Shorten the life of the heating element
- Lead to corrosion and leaks
Solution: Flush the tank once a year to remove built-up sediment. While some homeowners do this themselves, it’s safer and more effective when done by a professional and licensed plumber.
Test and Replace the Anode Rod
Inside your hot water tank is a sacrificial anode rod, a metal rod designed to corrode over time to protect the tank from rusting.
What to do:
- Have your anode rod checked every 3–5 years.
- If it’s heavily corroded, replacing it can extend your tank’s lifespan by several years.
This small, affordable part is one of the biggest contributors to preventing tank corrosion.
Check the Pressure Relief Valve (TPR Valve)
This valve helps prevent dangerous pressure buildup in your system. If it fails, your tank could become a safety hazard.
How to check it:
- Lift the valve gently every 6–12 months to ensure it opens and releases water.
- If it doesn’t work properly or leaks constantly, call a plumber to replace it.
We include this check in every hot water service we perform.
Insulate Exposed Pipes and the Tank (If Needed)
Insulating your hot water tank (especially older models) and the pipes leading from it can:
- Prevent heat loss
- Improve energy efficiency
- Reduce wear on the system from overworking
Ask us about adding pipe lagging or installing a tank with built-in insulation if your current system lacks it.
Fix Leaks and Strange Noises Early
Don’t ignore signs that your system is struggling:
- Leaking around the base of the tank
- Unusual banging, cracking, or rumbling sounds
- Fluctuating water temperature or pressure
- Rusty or discoloured water
These symptoms often point to issues that can be fixed, but if left too long, they could lead to full system failure.
Choose the Right Size System
If your hot water system is too small for your household, it will work harder and wear out faster. If you’ve recently added bathrooms or household members, it might be time to upgrade.
We can assess your needs and recommend an energy-efficient replacement that matches your lifestyle.
Bonus: Consider a Water Softener
If you live in a hard water area, installing a whole-house water softener can help protect your hot water unit and other plumbing appliances from scale buildup and internal damage.