Hot water systems account for 20-25% of a Australian household’s energy consumption. That’s a big portion of your energy bill going towards something we barely notice – until it stops working! It can turn your day upside down when you notice that no hot water is coming out of your tap, or the flow is so inconsistent that it might as well stop all together.
There are a number of reasons why you hot water tap has stopped working, including faulty heating elements, broken thermostats and even clogged pipes. But don’t panic yet. In this post we walk you through some simple checks you can do to help you identify and fix the problem, and signs that you need a professional to help you get this essential service back up and running ASAP.
Understanding Your Hot Water System
Before troubleshooting your hot water system, it is important to have a basic understanding of what type of hot water system you have. Different types operate differently and knowing how yours works can help you identify the source of the problem when things go wrong.
Types
There are two main types of hot water systems: storage systems and continuous flow (instantaneous) systems.
Storage Systems
In these systems, water is heated and stored in an insulated tank for use when required. The storage tank is typically made from materials like copper, glass-lined steel, or stainless steel.
Storage systems can operate under mains pressure (which provides a consistent water pressure similar to cold water, allowing multiple outlets to be used at once) or gravity feed (which delivers water at a lower pressure, typically found in older properties).
The bathroom uses most of the hot water in a storage system, followed by the laundry, and the kitchen uses the rest.
Continuous Flow (Instantaneous) Systems
These systems don’t store hot water; instead, they heat it as needed. Thus, there’s no risk of running out of hot water, as the system heats the water on demand.
Continuous flow systems are more energy-efficient because they don’t suffer the same heat or energy losses that storage systems do. They can run on gas (LPG or natural gas), electricity, or solar power, and provide consistent hot water without requiring a storage tank.
Some models even allow you to set the desired temperature at the point of use, such as in the shower, preventing the need to mix hot water with cold and reducing energy waste.
Energy Sources
- Gas (LPG or natural gas): Common in both storage and continuous flow systems, gas is a popular choice due to its affordability and efficiency.
- Electricity: Often used in storage systems or heat pump systems, electricity is a reliable but typically more expensive energy source for heating water.
- Solar Power: Solar hot water systems use the sun’s energy to heat water, making them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option, especially in sunny areas. Solar systems often require a booster (either gas or electric) for times when sunlight is less abundant.
Common Hot Water System Issues
Hot water systems, like any household appliance, can experience disruptions from time to time. While some issues may be quick fixes, others may require the help of a professional. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common problems that could be affecting your hot water system and how to address them:
Pilot Light Problems (Gas Water Heaters)
If your gas water heater isn’t heating water properly, it could be due to a problem with the pilot light. The thermocouple, a safety device, could be dirty or damaged, preventing it from regulating the gas flow. This device cuts off the gas supply when the pilot light goes out.
Additionally, strong drafts or condensation near the pilot light can also extinguish the flame, causing your heater to stop working. Cleaning or replacing the thermocouple can often resolve this issue.
Incorrect Thermostat Settings
Thermostat settings play a significant role in your hot water system’s performance. For storage systems, water temperatures should be maintained between 60°C and 65°C for optimal performance and safety.
If your water feels too hot or too cold, the thermostat might need adjustment. Electric water heaters often have two thermostats: one for the upper element and one for the lower element that works together to heat the water. If one of them malfunctions or the settings are incorrect, it can affect the water temperature.
Water Pressure Concerns
Low hot water pressure can be caused by various factors, such as sediment buildup in your pipes or clogged filters. A broken pressure regulator may also result in inconsistent water pressure, causing unexpected spikes or drops in water flow.
Partly closed valves or corroded pipes can restrict water flow as well, affecting the overall performance of your hot water system. If there are no obvious reasons why your hot water pressure is low, inconsistent or non-existent at all, a professional plumber can help identify the exact cause and make the necessary repairs.
Gas Leaks
A sulphur or rotten egg smell near your gas water heater is a strong indicator of a gas leak and should be addressed immediately. Signs of gas exposure include fatigue, headaches, continuous ringing in the ears, difficulty breathing, pale skin, and loss of appetite.
If you suspect a gas leak, it’s crucial to turn off the gas supply, ventilate the area, and contact a professional immediately. Gas leaks should never be ignored, as they pose significant health and safety risks.
Leaking Water Tank
A leaking water heater can reduce the flow of water that comes out of your hot water taps. A damaged pressure relief valve is one common cause, as it can allow water to leak from the tank. Another possibility is corroded tank walls, which can develop over time due to sediment buildup and the natural wear and tear of the system.
Loose pipe connections or a faulty drain valve can also contribute to leaks, as can a worn-out anode rod. If you notice water pooling around your tank, it’s important to act quickly as this not only affects your water bill, but can cause water damage to floors, walls, and nearby electrical systems. Fortunately, regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or detect leaks early, reducing the risk of major damage.
Electric Water Heater Malfunctions
Electric water heaters can experience a range of issues that affect their performance. One common problem is a tripped circuit breaker, which can prevent the heater from working. Broken heating elements or incorrect thermostat settings can also impact water temperature.
If you hear unusual noises coming from your heater, it may be due to sediment buildup around the heating elements. Additionally, rusty water can indicate that the tank is corroding internally. These issues can often be fixed with a simple reset, part replacement, or cleaning. However, if the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional for a thorough inspection.
No Hot Water? Here Are Some Quick Checks
When there’s no hot water, it is easy to panic! But, there are a few simple checks you can perform to try and diagnose and fix the problem yourself (or provide your plumber with context so they can help!). This includes:
- Check Other Hot Water Taps: Start by testing multiple hot water taps throughout your home. Check the kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and any other hot water outlets. If only one tap is malfunctioning while others are working fine, the issue is likely isolated to that specific fixture. However, if multiple taps aren’t producing hot water, the problem is likely with your hot water system itself.
- Verify Cold Water is Working: Before jumping to conclusions about your hot water system, ensure cold water is flowing properly through your taps as well. If both hot and cold water are not working, the problem may extend beyond your water heater and could be a broader plumbing issue. Check the main water meter to confirm the valve is open. Additionally, for storage systems, make sure the cold water supply valve is open and supplying adequate water to the tank.
- Look for Visible Leaks: Perform a thorough inspection of your hot water system for visible signs of leaks. Look for water pooling near the base of the tank or surrounding areas, rust stains or corrosion on the tank’s surface and pipes, wet spots around pipe connections and fittings or signs of water damage on nearby walls or flooring. It’s normal for the temperature relief valve to release small amounts of water during heating cycles, but excessive leakage could be the reason for little to no hot water pressure.
- Check Isolation Valves and Power Supply: Ensure that the isolation valves, where pipes connect to your system, are fully open. These valves need to stay open for the system to work properly. If you have an electric water heater, check the fuse box to ensure the “hot water system” switch is in the correct position. For gas systems, verify that the gas valve is open. If you’re using LPG, don’t forget to check your gas bottle levels to ensure you have enough fuel!
- Reset the Water Heater: Many water heaters have a reset button, often red in colour, located near the thermostat. It could also be hidden behind a removable metal panel on the unit. Pressing this reset button can resolve minor faults or disruptions in the system, restoring your hot water. If the system doesn’t reset, there may be a more serious issue at play, and it’s time to call in a professional.
When to Call a Professional
While some hot water issues can be fixed with a few quick checks, others require the expertise of a professional to ensure your system is repaired safely and effectively. If you encounter any of the following situations, it’s best to call in a qualified plumber or technician for help:
- Persistent Leaks: If you notice water pooling around your hot water tank, or if leaks continue after you’ve checked the valves and connections, it’s time to call a professional. A leaking water heater can cause serious (and costly!) damage to your home if left untreated. A professional will be able to locate and fix the source of the leak, whether it’s a damaged valve, corroded tank, or faulty pipe connections.
- Gas Leak or Smell of Gas: As we’ve explained, gas leaks pose a significant safety risk, so it’s essential to act immediately if you smell gas near your hot water system. Gas exposure can lead to health issues, and a leak can cause dangerous situations, including fire or explosion. Always err on the side of caution and never attempt to fix gas-related problems yourself.
- Broken or Faulty Heating Elements: If your electric water heater isn’t heating water properly, it could be due to a malfunctioning heating element. While you can check the circuit breaker and reset the system yourself if the issue persists or if you notice unusual noises (such as popping or cracking sounds), a professional technician will need to replace or repair the heating element. This is a job best left to an expert to ensure it’s done safely and correctly.
- No Hot Water After Resetting: If you’ve already reset your water heater and there’s still no hot water, it may be an indication of a more complex underlying issue that a professional can diagnose and recommend the necessary repairs for. Don’t continue to try resetting the system if it’s not working, as it may cause further damage.
- Unusual Water Quality: If you notice any unusual water quality, such as rusty, cloudy, or smelly water, it’s time to call a professional. Rusty water can indicate a corroded tank or pipe, while foul-smelling water may signal a build-up of mould or bacteria. These issues require expert attention to prevent further damage and ensure the quality of your hot water.
Read More: Tips For Finding An Emergency Plumber in Your Area
Key Takeaways
Dealing with no hot water can be frustrating, but understanding your system and knowing when to call a professional can make all the difference. From common issues to more complex malfunctions, identifying the root cause early can save you time and money.
If you’re facing any of the issues mentioned or need a comprehensive check of your hot water system, don’t hesitate to reach out to Crawford Plumbing. Our certified technicians specialise in maintaining and repairing hot water systems, ensuring your home stays comfortable and your water remains hot when you need it most. As a family-owned business with decades of experience, our 24/7 emergency response team is always ready to handle any issue, from gas leaks and tank failures to electrical faults.