If your hot water system has been off all summer and it’s time to turn it on, it needs some attention to work smoothly during winter. Maybe you need to schedule hot water repairs in Bayside Melbourne or your system needs a bit of maintenance. Either way, there are a few things you need to check first to avoid facing a frosty winter.
1
Check For Signs of Leaks and Corrosion
Inspect your hot water system, especially around the tank and pipe fittings. You should look out for any rusty patches or streaking along the hot water system and signs of corrosion near the valves. Even if there are some damp areas or water pooling near the hot water system, it’s best to call in a professional. These leaks can get worse in cold weather, making your system less efficient and leading to system failure.
2
Insulate The Pipes and Tank
Did you know that even Melbourne winters can be cold enough to make exposed pipes chill rapidly? If your pipes and tank are exposed to the weather, it’s best to call in a professional to insulate them.
They’ll wrap exposed pipes, especially those outside or in unheated areas, with foam pipe insulation. And if your system is older or located outdoors, consider a tank wrap or jacket for extra heat retention. But if you have a large system, you should prioritise pipes that lead outside your tank because that’s where they lose most heat from.
3
Test Your Pressure Relief Valve
The system’s pressure relief valve is a safety feature that prevents the tank from over-pressurising. To test it, lift the lever slightly to let some water flow out and let it snap back into place. Just be careful since it may be hot. If water keeps dripping or nothing comes out, the valve may need replacing. It’s best to call in a professional to test it, since they’ll come with a replacement valve in case it needs changing.
4
Flush Out The Tank
Sediment builds up in the tank over time, reducing heating efficiency and shortening the system’s lifespan. To flush out the tank, turn off the power/gas and cold water supply. Then, connect a hose to the drain valve and empty the tank. Next, flush it with fresh water to remove sediment. Lastly, refill the tank and turn the system back on. And if you’re not sure how to get this done safely, it’s best to call a plumber.
5
Check Your Thermostat Settings
Before you turn on your hot water system, make sure the water temperature is set to a safe and efficient level. This is around 60°C, which is recommended by professionals to prevent bacteria like Legionella, but still avoid scalding. Experts advise against cranking it up too high thinking it’ll help, because that just uses more energy and risks burns.
6
Inspect The Anode Rod
If you have an electric system, then it probably has an anode rod, which helps prevent internal rust inside the system. Check it to see any signs of corrosion, and if it’s heavily corroded, you should get it replaced. Ideally, you should get the anode rod replaced every 3 to 5 years, but it’s common for homeowners to skip it. Even so, you should call a professional to check it before the colder months, when the system is used regularly.
7
Call Professionals To Service Your System
If your system is older than 5 years, it’s a good idea to have a plumber do a winter check-up. This is especially recommended in Bayside suburbs where coastal air can increase corrosion. Experts like Plumb Well Solutions can perform a complete check on your system to make sure it’s ready for use during colder months.
8
Consider Upgrades or Replacements
Your hot water system may need an upgrade or replacement if it’s over 10 years old, keeps running out of hot water, or makes strange noises. Just make sure you call a professional to do the job before it’s the dead of winter.
Hot Water Repairs in Bayside Melbourne by Plumb Well Solutions
Before you can run your hot water system, you’ll need to make sure it’s ready. This includes checking it for signs of leakage or corrosion, insulating the tank and pipes, and flushing out the tank. Professional plumbers also recommend testing the pressure relief valve, checking thermostat settings, and inspecting the anode rod. The best way to do all of this is to call in an expert plumber to handle hot water repairs in Bayside Melbourne. Specialists like Plumb Well Solutions can manage all types of hot water system servicing, including upgrades and replacements.