Check Your Hot Water System Before Winter

Winter is just around the corner, and for those living in Brisbane, it's time to start thinking about preparing for the colder months ahead. One important aspect of winter preparation is checking your hot water system to ensure that it's working properly. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of checking your hot water system before winter and how to go about doing it.

Why is it important to check your hot water system before winter?

Firstly, having hot water is essential for staying comfortable during the colder months. Without it, you risk being cold and uncomfortable, which can lead to health issues such as the common cold and flu. Additionally, a malfunctioning hot water system can lead to higher energy bills, as it may have to work harder to provide hot water.

Secondly, checking your hot water system before winter can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. The last thing you want is for your hot water system to fail when you need it the most, leaving you without hot water for an extended period of time. By checking it before winter, you can identify any potential issues and get them fixed before they become bigger, more expensive problems.

How to check your hot water system

Here are some steps you can take to check your hot water system before winter:

1. Check the temperature: To ensure that your hot water system is both efficient and safe to use, it's important to set the temperature to a minimum of 55°C. However, setting the temperature too high can increase the risk of scalding and waste energy. To balance hot water efficiency and safety, a tempering valve should be fitted to your hot water system. This valve will mix cold water with the hot water to ensure that the temperature at the point of use doesn't exceed 50°C, even if the hot water system is set to a higher temperature.

2. Look for leaks: Check for any leaks around the hot water system, including the pipes and fittings. If you notice any leaks, get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent water damage.

3. Check the pressure relief valve: The pressure relief valve is an important safety feature of your hot water system. Make sure it's working properly by checking that water is coming out of the overflow pipe when you lift the valve lever.

4. Check the anode: The anode is a sacrificial rod that helps protect the hot water system from corrosion. Check the anode for any signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary.

5. Have it serviced: If your hot water system is due for a service, now is the time to get it done. A professional plumber can inspect your system and identify any issues that need to be addressed.

6. While the recommended frequency of changing over the Pressure and Temperature Relief valve (PTR) and the Expansion Control Valve (ECV) may vary depending on the make and model of your hot water system, it is recommended to replace them at least every five years. This is to ensure that they are working properly and can prevent any potential hazards or malfunctions. Similarly, the tempering valve should also be inspected and replaced if necessary, every five years to ensure that it is functioning correctly and maintaining a safe water temperature. It's important to have these replacements and inspections carried out by a licensed and qualified plumber to ensure that your hot water system remains safe and reliable.

It is important to note that any checks or maintenance on your hot water system, including the installation or inspection of a tempering valve, should be carried out by a qualified and licensed plumber. Attempting to perform these tasks yourself or using an unqualified individual can be dangerous and may result in damage to your system, injuries, or other issues. Always consult with a professional plumber who has the necessary knowledge, experience, and licensing to ensure that your hot water system is properly installed and maintained for maximum safety and efficiency.

If you need a hot water system service, don't hesitate to contact us at Howzat Plumbing. We offer a range of hot water system services, including inspections, repairs, installations, and upgrades. Our team members are located throughout Brisbane, including the northside, southside, Moreton Bay and Samford Valley regions, Brisbane's East, Bayside, Western suburbs, CBD, and inner-city, so we can be at your property as quickly as possible. Contact us today to schedule a service for your hot water system and ensure that it's working efficiently and effectively during the colder months ahead.