There are some appliances and systems in the home that we take for granted. Your plumbing, for example: you never think about it as it just goes about its job, day after day. However, it pays to have such systems checked once in a while, as they are not infallible.
The hot water tank is one such item that is often overlooked. It’s tucked away out of sight doing its job unhindered, and we think little of it. But when was the last time you had your hot water tank serviced? In fact, have you ever thought about it?
Many people don’t get their system serviced, but this can be costly if problems that could have been prevented by regularly servicing occur. In the following article we’ll be looking at what can go wrong with hot water tanks, and why you need it serviced.
What Goes Wrong With Hot Water Tanks?
A hot water tank is a simple thing, right? It’s just a tank full of water with a heater in it? That’s true, but what about the electric controls that keep your water just at the right temperature? And what about that heater, how long does it last? Then there’s the water itself: water corrodes many materials, rust eats away at metals, and there may be plenty of metal involved in your water tank.
Getting a hot water tank service is highly recommended if you have recently moved into a new property. It’s also sensible if you notice problems. Here are few indicators that your water tank might need attention:
- The water is coming out only warm despite the thermostat being set high.
- There is water leaking from the tank or the pipes attached to it.
- The water comes out of the faucet a rusty colour.
- Your heater has simply stopped working.
Each of these – and it’s by no means a comprehensive list – indicates that your water tank needs attention. If you have it regularly serviced, you reduce the chance of encountering these problems as any parts or consumables that look like they’re nearing the end of their life will be replaced at service time.
It’s also worth talking to an engineer about modern insulation methods and more up to date tanks and heaters if you suspect yours to be more than, for example, 15 years of age as there will be more energy efficient versions available.
Do I Need a New Hot Water Tank?
The average lifespan of a hot water tank could be anywhere from 15 to 25 years, and it will last longer if it is regularly serviced. There will come a time when the tank needs replacing, and your service engineer will advise you if the cost of repair is uneconomical. If you do go for a replacement hot water tank, ensure that you invest in one of the latest models that use very little energy to heat the water to a high temperature. There are also modern developments in hot water delivery that may be of interest to people with older homes.
The trick to keeping your hot water tank in good condition and full working order for the longest time is to engage the services of a local expert company. They will attend to a service every year or at a frequency of your choice, and check the tank and its peripheral items are working, not leaking and will replace any parts that are close to the end of their life.
Get in touch with your local hot water tank experts now and arrange a service.
