Category: Hot Water Systems

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5 Signs Your Hot Water System Needs Repairs

Gas Hot Water Systems

A water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home because it provides hot water when needed to all water fixtures and appliances. If your water heater starts to malfunction or stops working entirely, it might disrupt your daily routine. 

If you notice any of these five signs, contact an expert to detect the problem and repair your hot water system.

1. Rusty Water

Brown or orange deposit in your water heater is a clear sign of a tank or system problem. Rust causes this deposition. If the water in the cold and hot water faucets is rusty, you may have a plumbing problem. If only the hot water faucet water has rust or small black particles, your water heater is the problem. Having your water heater checked and maintained regularly can avoid this sudden inconvenience.

2. Low Pressure

If the water flow in your tap is weak, it could mean there’s a blockage in the line or the pressure regulator isn’t working properly. A leak or a worn gasket inside the water regulator is often the cause of pressure regulator problems. Sealing the leak or changing damaged gaskets can help resolve the pressure problem from the inside. 

Mineral deposits can further damage your water heater by reducing hot water pressure. The accumulation of mineral deposits on the water heater can end up blocking the pipes. In turn, it reduces the pressure of the water coming from the boiler.

3. Inconsistent Water Temperature

Inconsistent water temperature in hot water tanks is usually caused by the build-up of mineral deposits around the water heating components of the heater. Mineral build-up in a water heater can be so bad that it can take up space that should be filled with hot water, reducing the heater’s hot water holding capacity. 

The deposits can be easily removed if the hot water system is new. In older water heaters or heaters severely damaged by mineral deposits, the condition may be too severe to be repaired, and they may simply need to be replaced.

4. Internal Tank Leak

When a water heater tank cracks, corrodes, or leaks from the inside, it loses durability and cannot withstand internal pressure. The most common cause of internal tank leaks is a lack of water heater maintenance. It is important to have your hot water system inspected regularly to identify small issues before they result in significant damage as these leaks begin small but grow as pressure builds. The water heater should be replaced if there is an internal leak in the tank. 

5. Old Water Heater

The average lifespan of an electric or similarly powered water heater is eight to ten years. Gas heaters typically have a lifespan of six to eight years.
You may be able to extend the life of your water heater beyond these guidelines with the correct maintenance. However, if your water heater was installed more than eight years ago, repairs and maintenance might not be recommended, and you should consider replacing it.

Let's Get In Touch about Your Hot Water System Repairs

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to give your hot water system a check-up by professional hot water system installers. Ipswich Hot Water can help you with your hot water system repairs in Ipswich and surrounding areas. Don’t wait until your hot water system breaks down completely and give our hot water specialists a call for all your hot water maintenance and repair needs today! 

0431 478 631
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5 Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Hot Water System Installation

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If you’re looking into a hot water system installation for your home or business, or a hot water heater replacement, there are a few steps to follow that will help maximise your new system’s lifespan.

  1. Decide on what type of hot water installation you’d like to vie for. The main choices are gas, electric, and solar – each with its own hot water system installation cost.
  2. Find the type of hot water system you’ve decided upon within your price range.
  3. Get a reputable hot water specialist to install or replace your hot water system (we mean us).
  4. Be diligent with the maintenance aspect of your hot water system to avoid unnecessary expenses. Look for signs denoting wear and tear (specifically rust and corrosion).

Things to know before your hot water system installation:

If you’re going for a hot water installation in Ipswich, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Installation takes 1.5 – 2 hours, so set some time aside for the hot water system specialist to work their magic.
  2. According to Australian law, the minimum volume of water that hot water tanks hold is 250L.
  3. Extend your hot water system’s lifespan by draining it on an annual basis. This helps reduce the amount of sediment that’s built up at the bottom of the tank – ask our specialists how to do this.
  4. If you find rust on your hot water tank, try to remove it.
  5. Have your hot water system serviced annually. The temperature release valve, thermostat or element are parts that usually need to be replaced.

What size of hot water tank suits you and your family?

It’s usually enough to allot 50 L per person, but best practice is allotting 75 L (high consumption) to each member of your household. There may be some individuals that do well with 20 L – 30 L. Once you’ve determined how much hot water each individual will use, purchase a hot water system with a tank that suffices or is slightly greater than you and your families need. In general, if you use a lot of hot water during the day, you’ll need a larger tank. Another thing to keep in mind is that a gas water heater’s storage tank will be smaller than an electric water heater’s storage tank.

Are you looking for hot water in Ipswich? Licensed and insured, Ipswich Hot Water offers hot water system installation in Ipswich and its surrounds for both residential and commercial customers. If you’d like a free quote, and your property is located in Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, West Brisbane, give Ipswich Hot Water a call on 0431 478 631.

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How Does An Emergency Hot Water Repair Service Save Your Failing Water Heater?

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Depending on their type, hot water systems usually last for about 8-12 years. But during this time, regular usage and lack of maintenance can result in a sudden, premature water heater failure. This can cause major trouble for anyone who uses hot water for routine tasks such as laundry, dishes, showering and various other household chores. While some people will opt for a hot water system repair right away, others may delay it – not realising that this will only worsen the situation at hand.

Whenever your hot water system shows any signs of trouble, calling a trusted emergency hot water repair service should be the first thing to do. It is important to recognise the early indicators of a faulty hot water system so you can rush for immediate professional assistance.

Here are some of the early signs:

When You Have Rusty Water

Ever experienced rusty water coming out from your hot water tap?
Discoloured water is a sign of rust or corrosion in your heating tank or anode rod. If the issue is caught in its early phases, a professional hot water plumber can easily fix it. However, if neglected for a long time, the rust will start to spread inside the water tank and cause cracks and leaks. Unfortunately, once the problem reaches this stage, it cannot be fixed and your only option is to go for an emergency hot water replacement. To avoid this expense, you need to keep an eye on the early signs of rust and get a professional hot water plumber to fix the problem ASAP.

When You Face Trouble Adjusting the Water Temperature

Hot water systems come with a temperature adjustment feature that allows you to set your preferred water temperature. While water heater technicians recommend setting the temperature at 120 degrees, you can even increase it to 140-150 degrees if you prefer warmer showers. If you notice the temperature is not changing when you try to adjust it, this might be due to a broken thermostat.

Most emergency hot water repair experts have common spare parts available in their plumbing vans. They can quickly replace the thermostat so you can set your desired water temperature and get back to enjoying a warm shower.

When There is No Hot Water

In a gas hot water system, the absence of hot water might be due to a malfunctioning gas valve. In electric water heaters, no hot water mostly indicates that the heating element in the heating tank is damaged or broken.

If you are someone who cannot stand cold water, call your nearest hot water heater plumbers so they can replace the faulty components and get your hot water system up and running again.

When You Hear Strange Noises from the Heating Tank

Knocking or rumbling noise from your hot water system is usually due to sediment buildup in the heating tank. Not only does this reduce the heating efficiency of your water heater, but it can also cause leaks in your system.

To avoid this inconvenience, make sure to have your heating tank flushed by a certified hot water plumber at least once every year. If the problem persists even after the annual service, chances are that your system is near to completing its lifespan and needs replacement. Our hot water installers can replace your water heater with a new hot water system, so the problem is sorted once and for all.

Hot Water System Repairs Near You

If you are dealing with a troubled hot water system in your home or commercial property, give Ipswich Hot Water a call and our team of emergency plumbers will be right there at your doorstep in no time. Apart from hot water repair services, we also provide installation and maintenance for all makes and models of water heaters, for residential and commercial properties in Ipswich, Lockyer Valley and West Brisbane.

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5 Ways An Ideal Solar Hot Water System Service Facilitates Homeowners

Hot Water Systems Specialists

Hot water makes life so much easier. And the blessing of it is twofold when it doesn’t put a strain on your energy bills. This is one of the main reasons why there has been a rise in solar hot water heater installations in Australian homes. When opting for a solar hot water heater, it’s important to look for a service that provides a full range of solutions for your home. That way, you don’t have to deal with multiple tradespeople for a single installation.

Here are the services that your solar hot water plumbers should ideally provide:

Supply

It often gets difficult for homeowners to decide which solar hot water heater is suitable for their home. From the brand to the size of the hot water system and more, it’s hard to know what factors count towards the best results from their new installation. A professional solar hot water system service will send an expert to assess your hot water needs before recommending a solar water heater that suits your family size and budget.

Installation

The efficiency of your solar water heater largely depends on proper installation. If your heater is installed by experienced solar hot water installers, a single installation will go a long way. Therefore, always ask around to find a trustable solar hot water system service so you don’t end up wasting your money in the hands of amateur individuals disguised as professionals.

Scheduled Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that an appliance lasts a long time. If you want to make the most out of your installation, make sure to get your solar water heaters serviced every 3 to 5 years. And for that, you shouldn’t have to look anywhere else. Your solar hot water installers should be the ones providing you with scheduled maintenance. Since they are experts in all kinds of hot water systems, they can easily service the water heaters they’ve installed for your home.

Repairs

Even with professional installation and regular maintenance, time will still leave its wear and tear on your solar hot water system. If you notice any of the following signs, then it’s time to call your solar water heating services and get your system fixed before the damage worsens:

  • Your system’s heating capacity is compromised
  • Your heating tank is leaking
  • Smelly or rusty water is coming out from your hot water taps
  • Weird noises are coming from your heating tank
  • There is fluctuations in water temperature

Replacement

On average, a solar hot water system lasts for up to 20 years, which is much longer than a gas or electric hot water system. An ideal solar hot water system service should be able to identify when it is time to replace your old hot water system. That way, they can save you from wasting your money on costly repairs when the system is clearly showing that it needs replacement.

Solar Water Heating System Installation in Ipswich

If your household depends on hot water on a daily basis, yet your increasing energy bills are a major concern, it’s about time you invested in a solar hot water heater and put yourself at ease.

Ipswich Hot Water is a reliable name in solar hot water system service in Ipswich, Lockyer Valley and West Brisbane, known for superior-quality installation and repairs services for all popular brands and makes of hot water systems in Australia.

Planning to upgrade to a solar hot water system?

Talk to our local hot water specialists today.

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How Long Do Hot Water Systems Last?

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Hot water is a blessing we all take for granted. From showers to laundry and cleaning dishes, hot water is always at our disposal… unless there’s a problem with your hot water system and you get a freezing cold shower instead. That’s the last thing you need after a long day at work or a strenuous workout at the gym.

To avoid such problems, always keep your hot water systems well maintained. It’s the key to extending its longevity and efficiency. A good quality hot water system can last you from 7 to 20 years, depending on its type, building materials, and usage. There are two main types of hot water systems. They are:

Storage based hot water systems

Storage hot water systems use a tank to store hot water. The tank can be glass-lined, copper or steel. The lifespan of a hot water storage tank for your home depends on the material of your tank.

  • Copper or glass-lined tanks – 7 to 10 years
  • Stainless steel tanks – 12 to 15 years
  • Heat pumps – 10 to 15 years

Continuous flow hot water systems

Continuous flow or instant hot water systems are tankless and use gas or electricity to heat the water. It can last you up to 25 to 20 years.

What factors affect a hot water system’s life span?

If you want to get maximum value out of your hot water system, there are several things you should keep in mind before investing in one. They include:

Usage

Your hot water usage and requirement is the primary factor when choosing a water heater. Do you have a large family that needs hot water 24/7? Then you’re better off investing in a continuous flow hot water system that will give you a constant supply of hot water. Or you could get a stainless steel tank for your electric storage hot water system, as it lasts longer and has better insulation.

Quality

The better the quality hot water system, the longer it lasts. Don’t compromise on the quality because of the high price. High-grade water heaters are high performance, saving you money on water bills and repair costs.

Warranties

All water heaters, electric, gas or solar, have at least a minimum of 5 to 10 years warranties. They go a long way with helping you with the cost of replacements of parts. Always consider the warranty duration before investing in a hot water system for your property. The longer the terms of your warranty, the more secure your system will be.

You should also:

  • Get the sediment buildup flushed regularly by a professional
  • Regularly check your pressure relief valve if you have tank hot water system
  • Replace your anode rod every 3 to 5 years as it is prone to corrosion
  • Keep a lookout for leaks in your tank and pipes and replace any fittings that have rusted immediately

Lastly, call in a hot water specialist if you hear gurgling and popping sound from your water tank, discoloured water or have an increase in water bills. These signs are an indication of a fault with your hot water system. Don’t try to do the repairs and replacements yourself as it can cause further damage. Furthermore, tinkering with gas heaters can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Always hire a certified professional who has the experience and knowledge to repair all types of water heating systems.

Ipswich Hot Water are your local hot water specialists. We offer reliable installation, repair and maintenance services for all your hot water and plumbing needs in Brisbane and surrounding areas. Give us a call if you have any problems with your hot water systems or are looking to buy a new one today.

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Troubleshooting Issues With An Electric Hot Water System In Brisbane

WaterHeaters

When you use electric hot water systems for your property or home in Brisbane you need to familiarise yourself with the basics and understand potential issues that may arise. It is always best to call in the professionals to take care of the problem, whatever it could be, but with the right info on your side, you can identify and understand the depths of the issue at hand. Read on to see the main issues that you could run into with your heating system.

Broken Or Worn Elements

The most commonly seen system is an insulated, cylindrical tank that stores heated water and warms it up with one or more electronic elements within the tank itself. This design essentially works like a giant kettle. The insulation around the tank enables the contents to stay warmer for longer. When the contents of the tank are used it will refill with cold water which the elements will then reheat to the predetermined temperature. When the elements are worn or broken, they cannot do their job correctly. With no heating, or heating below the required level, you will not be able to rely on your heating system in place.

Defective Thermostat

Most of these types of systems will have two elements and two thermostats that work together to correctly cycle the contents of the tank. The elements do not heat up simultaneously; the upper element heats first, followed by the bottom one. When these elements are broken or faulty they will not be able to correctly regulate the temperatures within. This could lead to many issues, but the most notable would be potential damage to the tank from incorrect temperature regulation over time.

Leaking Elements 

When working with heating systems like these, having all elements of the system insulated and air-tight is a key part of the effectiveness of the plumbing. When you have leaks and gaps it can not only cause dampness and damage but also reduce the ability of your system to perform. Without an insulated and secure system, you cannot be sure that you will have access to the warm water system.

Troubleshooting your electric hot water system for your property in Brisbane can be tricky. But if you know what could go wrong you can easily identify the problem and ensure the experts go directly to the source of the issue. When you have professional services at your disposal you can tackle every issue head-on with experience. Contact us right away for more.

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Hot Water System: Solar Vs Gas or Electric

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Are you wanting to restore or upgrade your existing hot water system but aren’t sure which system is right for you? A quarter of the average Australian household bill is spent on hot water systems. Given that this is one of the most costly appliances to operate in your home, you’ll want to be sure you acquire the most energy-efficient water heater your budget will allow. Continue reading to find out which hot water system is right for you.

Solar 

A solar hot water system is made up of solar panels and a hot water storage tank. Thermosiphon systems can be divided into roof-mounted solar panels and storage tanks, and pumped or split systems. To allow for additional storage on days with less sunlight, you’d need a somewhat larger tank with Gas and Electric HWS. If you need it, most tanks come with a gas or electric booster. In addition, flat solar panels or evacuated tubes can be used. The evacuated tubes are much more functional and take up less space, but they are more expensive upfront.

Gas and Electric Hot Water Systems 

Hot Water Storage Systems

The most popular hot water system found in Australian households is a storage hot water system, which is also the cheapest to buy. Heating the water in the tank and storing it is how storage hot water systems work. They can be kept in laundry rooms, cupboards, beneath the stairs, or even outside.

Depending on the fuel available in your location, storage hot water systems are available in gas or electric. That will be determined according to whatever option is best for you. You can always use LPG gas if natural gas isn’t available in your location.

When it comes to water heating, gas is more efficient than electricity. Gas is not only less expensive, but it also heats water faster than electricity. The gas heat is instant, comparable to that of a gas stove, while the electric storage system takes time to achieve the desired temperature, similar to a kettle. Storage hot water systems are the most popular form of a hot water system in Australia because they are simple to install, provide instantaneous hot water from the tap, and require little maintenance.

Enjoy the benefits of having these convenient to use appliances in your house, from cost savings to maintenance. For a gas hot water system, contact Ipswich Hot Water today!

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Possible Causes and Remedies for Discolouration from your Hot Water System

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One of the most staggering human achievements of all time is having clean, hot water on demand. We’ve become accustomed to expecting clean water from our taps whenever we turn them on. When we receive discoloured water though, we know something is wrong, and you need to hire plumbing services in Brisbane. We’ll go over a few common reasons and solutions for discoloured water from your hot water system.

Discoloured Hot Water: Causes and Solutions

It can be unsettling to switch on the hot water in your house and find discoloured water pouring out. That said, this issue isn’t going to uproot your life completely. While discoloured water from your hot water system isn’t ideal, it’s no cause for alarm. As it turns out, there are many typical causes for this problem, most of which are pretty safe, albeit inconvenient. Let’s take a look at some of the most typical plumbing issues that cause discolouration in your hot water supply.

1) Contaminant Accumulation — Contaminant buildup is the most common cause of discoloured hot water in your house or business. Minerals and sediment can build up inside your water heater tank over time. Contaminants stick to pipes when things settle at the bottom of your tank, discolouring the hot water sent to the remainder of your house. As a result, not only will your water change colour, but it will also call into question the efficacy of the entire system.

Solution: Consider having your water heater flushed by a plumber. You’ll need to empty your tank, wash the system, and then reinstall the unit.

2) Rusty Pipes – In the same way that materials can adhere to the inside of your water heater, rust can attach to your network of pipes. Corrosion and rust on pipework can cause discoloured hot water. Furthermore, they will degrade with time, just like your pipes. While most current piping solutions are built to endure an extended period, older homes may not have the same level of plumbing quality.

Solution: If your old pipes have rusted and are showing signs of corrosion, have them replaced.

Ipswich Hot Water Solutions

Ipswich Hot Water has a team of experts who can assist you with hot water solutions. In addition, our plumbing services in Brisbane have been helping customers make the most of their plumbing and hot water systems. So give us a call right now to cure all of your hot water issues!

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What Is Solar Thermal Hot Water and How Does It Work?

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Assume you own or want to own a solar water heating system. You’ve begun a long-term saving plan for both your budget and our beautiful planet. We can assist you in servicing that equipment or finding the proper heating solution for your needs! We handle various types of solar heating systems, but if you’re still undecided, here are some suggestions to get you started!

There are Two Main Viable Options

  • Solar thermal hot water system
  • Solar photovoltaics that has been diverted (PV)

What Is Solar Thermal Hot Water and How Does It Work?

To be clear, a solar thermal panel does not create energy; it just heats the water. It is a means of bringing water into direct contact with the sun’s heat. Flat-plate and evacuated-tube collectors are the two types of solar thermal panels available. Flat-plate solar thermal panels are three times thicker than photovoltaic panels and have a comparable appearance. Under a vacuum, heat pipes are encased by glass tubes in the most common type. The glass tube is made up of two glass walls separated by a heat-retaining vacuum.The heat pipe is pressurised as well, allowing for quick boiling at low temperatures. The heat is transported to a well-insulated storage tank by flowing around the top of the heat pipe.

Multiple parallel glass tubes make up evacuated-tube collector systems. The sunlight hits the tubes, causing a vacuum to form between the two pieces of glass (thus the term “evacuated”). A copper component is contained within the glass tubes and heats the water. This system performs well in foggy or chilly conditions and can heat water to extremely high temperatures. However, it is more costly than a Flat-Plate method.

What Is A Solar Hot Water System With A Diverted Photovoltaic (PV) System?

As a cost-effective method for heating water, this system employs standard photovoltaic (PV) solar panels with heat pumps. The availability of this option is determined by the type of building and your requirements.

Requirements:

  • Pipes all the way to the roof
  • A tank and pump on the ground or a tank on the roof.
  • Thermoelectric panels
  • Installation may necessitate the use of a crane.
  • For installation, you’ll need a licensed, insured plumber and electrician.

Why Choose Us?

Ipswich Hot Water is a prominent supplier of hot water solar systems and related services.

For solar water heating system maintenance, upgrades, or assistance in determining the optimum mix of alternatives for your household or workplace, contact us today!

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Benefits of Instantaneous Gas Hot Water Systems

Instantaneous Gas Hot Water Systems

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Through the act of water heating, water heaters may bring warmth and comfort to any household. That method allows water to be heated to the desired temperature using a specific energy source. Solar energy, electricity, and gas are now used to power water heaters. Instantaneous hot water heaters are one of the most common forms of water heaters. That is because they employ natural gas or propane-fueled gas heaters. If you’re looking for the best water heater for your house, consider gas water heaters because they offer the following benefits over other types of water heaters.

Process of Rapid Heating

In comparison to other forms of water heaters, gas water heaters can quickly heat water in a short period. That is since gas water heaters perform and recover more rapidly than electric versions, allowing them to restore the hot water supply promptly. Furthermore, the fast recovery rate of these heaters ensures that your family has enough hot water. This particular feature of gas water heaters is suitable for large houses with high hot water demand.

Water That is Cleaner

Any water from your pipes can be boiled and heated fresh by tankless gas water heaters at the cost of increased energy usage. Tankless gas water heaters, unlike storage water heaters, do not accumulate hard mineral deposits. As a result, rust is not even allowed to enter the system. However, if you still use gas water heaters, frequent maintenance can help prevent rust and mineral deposits from forming.

Costs of Energy are Lower

Gas water heaters lose a lot of heat during operation due to exhaust gases and the tank’s walls. Even with this disadvantage, electric heaters are still far less expensive to run. Natural gas and propane as a power source for water heaters allow you to save a lot of money because they are much cheaper than electricity.

Installation is Simple

Gas water heaters have many advantages over other forms of water heaters, including ease of installation. Installing a gas water heater is usually straightforward, especially if your property already has a gas line. Furthermore, they can be placed anywhere. Finally, their tiny form factors allow them to be easily fitted, whether indoors or outside. 

Improved Security

Propane gas is one of the world’s cleanest burning fossil fuels. As a result, authorities have approved this specific gas as a substitute fuel for various machines and gadgets. With these factors in mind, using this gas for water heaters reduces significant greenhouse gas emissions.

Contact us right away to find out more information about our instantaneous gas hot water system.