Why Regular Maintenance is Crucial for Your Hot Water Service

Regular maintenance keeps your hot water system reliable and efficient, helping you avoid breakdowns, cold showers, and expensive repairs in your Melbourne home or business.

Although it’s so important to our daily lives, many of us underestimate the value of fully functional hot water systems–that is until something goes wrong. All of a sudden, there’s no more hot showers, warm water to do the dishes, or no water at all.

The good news is there are many steps we can all take to keep your hot water unit humming. From when to book a service to the benefits of regular maintenance, this article will cover everything you need to know as a home or business owner in Melbourne.

Let’s jump into it!

How to Know When Your Hot Water Needs Maintenance

Your hot water system won’t last forever, but you can extend its lifespan and efficiency with regular maintenance. The same rules apply to gas, electric, heat pump, and solar-based systems. 

Unless a problem rears its head, it’s not always easy to know when maintenance is required. However, there are a few signs that indicate it’s time for a service. 

Let’s start with some of the basics.

If you notice fluctuating water temperatures, lower-than-usual water pressure, or rust-coloured water coming from your taps, these are all indicators that your hot water system needs attention. Additionally, if you’ve been hearing unusual noises like rumbling or notice leaks around the tank, a service call should be at the top of your to-do list.

When conducted by an experienced professional, regular maintenance can address many of these issues before they turn into costly repairs or replacements. Being proactive with hot water system care will ultimately save time and money, as well as avoid the stress of an unexpected cold shower on a busy morning!

The Importance of Booking in a Service

Servicing a hot water system is often overlooked until a serious problem arises. Unless you’ve already decided it’s time for an upgrade, scheduling regular maintenance is still one of the best ways to keep your system running at peak performance. 

A licensed technician or qualified gas plumber can identify and resolve minor issues before they escalate, saving you from inconvenient breakdowns and reducing the risk of expensive repairs.

So, how often should you get your hot water systems checked?

For most hot water systems, an annual service is ideal, though high-demand households may benefit from more frequent checkups. During a typical service, a professional will check components such as the thermostat, the pressure relief valve, and the anode rod, which helps to prevent rust inside the tank. 

Technicians may also flush out sediment buildup that can affect both the efficiency and the lifespan of your system. For gas systems, it’s essential to call a licensed gas plumber who can safely handle any gas components and ensure the unit meets all safety standards.

Maintaining your hot water system according to the manufacturer’s guidelines can even keep your warranty valid, potentially saving you on repair or replacement costs should something go wrong.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

From increased efficiency to fewer repairs and a longer lifespan, there are numerous advantages to routine hot water system maintenance. Here’s a closer look at the major benefits to keep in mind!

Extends the System’s Lifespan

The lifespan of your hot water system will depend on when it was first made. For example, some newer units can now last for more than two decades. However, as a general rule, the average system will last anywhere from 8 to 12 years. 

During a service, technicians use specific equipment to assess the key components and detect early signs of wear or corrosion. This process is all about checking whether the various parts are working as they should be. In a general sense, this helps to prevent smaller issues from turning into costly breakdowns down the line. 

Reduces the Risk of Sudden Breakdowns

Nobody wants to start the day with a cold shower, struggle to do the dishes without hot water or be left in the lurch when they least suspect it!

Because regular maintenance keeps your system running at its best, it allows you to avoid these costly, unexpected, and uncomfortable disruptions. A well-maintained system is far less likely to experience breakdowns, meaning you’re less likely to be caught off guard by sudden problems.

Much like your car, a little investment is needed to avoid larger and more substantial issues.

Lower Repair Costs

Routine maintenance reduces the frequency and severity of repairs by tackling any existing issues head on. Clearing out sediment buildup, as an example, prevents extra strain on heating elements and lowers the chances of part failure. 

Fewer repairs also mean you’ll avoid paying for emergency service calls, which can be particularly expensive outside of regular business hours. By addressing small issues before they become major ones, you’re likely to save money in the long run.

Better Energy Efficiency

Over time, sediment can accumulate in hot water tanks, reducing efficiency and causing the system to work harder to heat water. By flushing out the sediment and checking for potential issues during a service, you help your system operate efficiently and reduce its energy consumption. 

An efficient hot water system is a great way to save money on your regular water and power bills, as well as support environmentally friendly practices at the same time.

Keeps the Manufacturer’s Warranty Valid

Many manufacturers require regular servicing to keep the warranty valid, especially for systems that are under several years of warranty coverage. If the system isn’t maintained according to these guidelines, the warranty may become void and leave you without financial support if something suddenly goes wrong. 

If you need expert hot water repairs in Port Melbourne, Box Hill or Preston, we’re available citywide! Call us now to maintain your warranty or get your unit back on track.

Safe Operation

Hot water systems are generally safe, but without maintenance, they could develop faults that pose risks to your home and family. For example, a faulty pressure relief valve can lead to tank pressure buildup which then increases the risk of an explosion. 

Organising a regular checkup is a great way to ensure that all components, such as the pressure valve and anode rod, are functioning correctly and safe for everyday use.

Should You Repair or Replace?

Even with regular maintenance, hot water systems don’t last forever. When a system starts showing frequent issues or inefficiency, it’s time to consider whether repairing or replacing it is the best choice. 

If your hot water unit is relatively new and issues are minor, a repair is usually a more cost-effective solution. However, if your system is nearing the end of its lifespan (typically around 8 to 12 years) or requires increasingly frequent repairs, replacement may ultimately be your best option. 

Take Advantage of Newer Technology 

Replacing an aging unit with a new, energy-efficient model can also save you money on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. These days, there are many great options available, as well as rebates to ease the financial burden. 

Put simply, upgrading is a great way to save money and get a more reliable system!

At MCN Plumbing, we offer expert hot water installation services across the city of Melbourne. Whether you need a plumber in St Kilda, Broadmeadows or Surrey Hills, we’re always ready to lend a helping hand!

Get a Professional Opinion

If you really want to get the most out of a hot water system, reaching out to a professional plumber is essential. Only they have the training, expertise, and equipment required to service your system.

At MCN, we offer a wide range of hot water solutions in Melbourne. When you hire us, you receive:

• > Installation, maintenance, and repairs for all major brands
• > Workmanship backed by 30 years of hot water system experience
• > Commercial and residential hot water solutions
• > Same day services for calls before 10:30AM
• > Upfront pricing for your peace of mind
• > All work guaranteed
• > $0 Call Out Fees

From Rheem to Rinnai, AquaMax, Bosch, Vulcan, and more, our team can handle all of the major makes and models on the market today. So, all you need to do from here is give us a call and we’ll send a qualified plumber your way!