When your hot water system doesn’t work properly, doing everyday chores can become much more inconvenient. Sometimes, all you need to do is call a professional to look at your hot water system.
But if you’re needing to get your hot water system fixed in Bayside Melbourne every few months, it could be a problem with the system. In this situation, you should look for warning signs that it may be time for a replacement.
Lifespan of Typical Hot Water Systems
Hot water systems have a life expectancy of about 8 to 20 years, depending on their build and model. But with consistent maintenance, you could use a system for even longer. A gas hot water system lasts 8 to 12 years, while an electric system lasts slightly longer at 10 to 15 years. Solar hot water systems last about 10 years, while tankless systems last the longest for about 20 years.
Of course, these numbers are just an estimate, so the final lifespan can depend on whether you maintain the system, as well as the water quality and pressure you get in the area.
Signs That It’s Time To Replace Your Hot Water System
Frequent Repairs
When several parts of your hot water system start breaking down, or it just doesn’t perform as well as it used to, it starts needing frequent repairs. If you’ve had to schedule several service calls in the last couple of months, consider talking to a professional about replacing your hot water system. A replacement is recommended before you experience a serious leak that damages your property.
It’s Over 10 Years Old
The age of your system is an important factor to consider when you’re planning to replace it. Hot water systems typically last for 8 to 12 years, so if yours is over 10 years old, you should call a professional to check the make, model, and installation date. They’ll assess whether your system is still performing well and recommend a new unit.
You’re Getting Rusty Water
If the water coming out of your hot water system appears brown or rusty, it means that the anodes are deteriorating and letting sediment into the water. It can also mean that your hot water tank is corroding from the inside, increasing the likelihood of a leak.
Water Suddenly Gets Cold
Another common sign you’ll notice is that water coming out of the tap or shower starts running cold quickly. This typically happens because of a faulty heating element, which you can fix by scheduling hot water repairs by an expert. It can also happen because mineral sediment has coated and hardened the bottom of the tank. Since this happens when your system is about 10 years old, it’s a sign that you need to replace it.
You Need More Hot Water
Sometimes, you may need to replace the hot water system because your needs have changed. If your family has grown, the current hot water system may struggle to keep up with growing demand. Switching to a bigger storage tank or a tankless system ensures that you have enough hot water for increased usage while maintaining energy efficiency.
Leaking System
Though it’s normal to see some dripping from the tempering pressure relief valve, constant leaks or pooling water can indicate a problem. Over time, it can cause a high water bill, increased energy costs, and possible structural damage as well. In most cases, leaks are a clear indication that it’s time to replace your hot water tank instead of trying to repair it.
How Often Should You Replace a Hot Water System?
Considering the above-mentioned signs, you’re probably wondering how often you should replace a hot water system. Plumbing specialists recommend replacing hot water systems every 10 years because the average lifespan is around 8 to 10 years, though it varies depending on maintenance and usage.
While timely maintenance can increase its lifespan, replacement is recommended when it’s not as efficient any longer, and you’re spending too much money on repairs. If your system is almost 10 years old, consider calling a professional to assess its condition.
Expert Plumbers Handling Hot Water Repairs in Bayside Melbourne
When it’s time to replace your hot water system, you’ll notice common signs like needing frequent repairs, rusty water coming out of the tank, and the water suddenly running cold. The typical lifespan of a hot water system is about 8 to 12 years, so experts recommend replacing it at the 10-year mark. At Plumb Well Solutions, we specialise in hot water repairs in Bayside Melbourne, as well as replacements.