Have you ever had your hot steaming shower rudely interrupted by ice cold water running down your back?
Especially in the middle of winter?
About 25% of the energy used in your home goes towards heating your water so there should be no excuses for having a cold shower!
Here are 5 quick and easy tips to ensure you never have a cold shower again!
1. Check the hot water system’s general condition
Look for any signs of rust or degradation on the exterior of the tank itself.
Start at the seams on the tank, which can be a weak spot. (this is particularly true of older tanks.)
While the inside itself may function (and heat the water), if there is a leak from the seams, you will be losing hot water and/or wasting electricity/gas.
Also make sure the hot water tank hasn’t misshapen as that would indicate that it’s time to call a plumber.
Lastly, check for rust. This usually goes hand-in-hand with leakage, but can also be caused by the tank itself degrading over time.
2. Inspect the Safety Relief Valve
If you’ve got a continuous dribble in your hot water valve, you might have particles caught in the valve itself.
This is a pretty easy fix.
Gently open the valve with the control lever or knob, and release a bit of water.
This will hopefully move any particles, dust or what have you caught in the mechanism.
Anything more than a drip, contact us and we’ll come out and take a look for you.
3. Inspect other hot water system valves
If you’ve got a continuous dribble on any kind coming from the hot water system valves, it may mean you are wasting valuable water.
In these cases, you may need to enlist a plumber to inspect the possible replacement of the valves.
4. Size Matters!
An undersized water heater is usually the culprit if it seems like you never have enough hot water in your home.
If the problem is chronic—or if you’ve increased your needs for hot water by installing a big new soaking tub or high-flow shower head—you’ll probably need to get a new, larger water heater.
We’ve got access to some great hot water service dealers and can organise and replace your hot water system for you if needed.
5. Type of Hot Water System
Knowing what kind of hot water system you have can make a huge difference.
It’s surprising how many owners are unaware of having to fill their hot water units!
Check to see if your property’s water storage unit that requires filling with water every 3 months.
If it is a gas hot water system, check to see if the pilot light is still lit?
Taking the time to check your hot water system for these common issues could mean the difference between a hot and a cold shower tonight!
If you find that your hot water system needs a little extra attention by a professional plumber call the team at Plumbaround today.
Mention this blog article when you call and we’ll waive our call out fee ($60 saving).
Or book online by clicking on the link below.