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.
