Do Hot Water Tanks Really Need Servicing? Here’s What You Should Know

Hot water systems are an essential part of any home or business, providing the steady supply of hot water needed for daily activities. However, many homeowners overlook the importance of hot water system maintenance until they experience issues such as inconsistent water temperature, leaks, or costly repairs.

So, do hot water tanks need servicing? The answer is yes. Regular servicing ensures optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity, preventing unexpected breakdowns and keeping running costs under control. In this article, we will explore why servicing is essential, common problems that arise from neglect, and when to consider a new hot water system.

Why Regular Servicing Is Essential

A hot water system works around the clock, constantly heating and storing hot water for use. Over time, wear and tear, sediment buildup, and corrosion can impact efficiency and reliability. Regular servicing helps to:

• Extend the lifespan of your hot water unit, reducing the need for premature replacement.
• Maintain energy efficiency, keeping utility bills under control.
• Prevent system failures, ensuring you are not left with cold water when you need it most.
• Improve water quality by removing sediment and preventing rusty water.
• Identify minor issues early, avoiding costly repairs down the track.

Whether you have a gas hot water system, electric hot water system, heat pump, or solar water heater, professional servicing plays a key role in ensuring reliable performance.

Common Issues That Occur Without Servicing

Neglecting your hot water system maintenance can lead to various problems, affecting both performance and safety. Some of the most common issues include:

• Sediment buildup – Over time, minerals and debris accumulate at the bottom of the storage tank, reducing heating efficiency and causing inconsistent water temperature.
• Tank corrosion – A corroded hot water tank is prone to leaks, potentially leading to structural damage and expensive repairs.
• Unusual noises – A hot water heater that makes banging or rumbling sounds may have sediment buildup causing overheating and strain on the heating element.
• Pressure relief valve failure – The pressure relief valve is a safety mechanism that prevents excessive pressure from building up in the hot water unit. A faulty valve can lead to dangerous pressure levels.
• Pilot light problems – If the pilot light in a gas hot water system frequently goes out, it could indicate gas line issues or burner malfunctions.

Ignoring these warning signs can result in sudden failures, higher running costs, and reduced energy efficiency.

How Often Should You Service Your Hot Water Tank?

While general industry advice recommends annual servicing, our policy is to service hot water systems every two years. This schedule provides a reliable balance between system longevity and maintenance costs, especially in regions like Victoria.

• In Victoria, flushing the hot water tank is generally not required due to the state’s clean mains water, which reduces sediment build-up.
• The anode rod should be inspected every few years to prevent tank corrosion.
• The pressure relief valve should be tested as part of every professional service to ensure safe operation.

This approach keeps your system working efficiently and reduces the likelihood of unexpected faults.

Signs Your Hot Water System Needs Servicing

Even with regular maintenance, certain signs indicate that your hot water system may require immediate attention. These include:

• Inconsistent water temperature – Fluctuations in hot water supply could signal a faulty heating element or thermostat.
• Leaks or moisture around the storage tank – A leaking hot water tank could indicate tank corrosion or a faulty relief valve.
• Low water pressure – Sediment buildup or pipe blockages can reduce water pressure, making your system less efficient.
• Pilot light issues in gas hot water systems – A pilot light that keeps going out may point to gas burner or gas line problems.
• Higher utility bills – A hot water heater that requires more power to heat water could indicate reduced efficiency.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is best to book a hot water service as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Basic Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

While professional servicing is essential, there are a few things homeowners can do to maintain their hot water systems between professional check-ups:

• Flush the tank every six months to remove sediment buildup and maintain optimal performance.
• Inspect the anode rod every few years, as this metal rod helps prevent tank corrosion.
• Check the pressure relief valve to ensure it releases pressure properly and functions safely.
• Monitor water temperature – If your hot water is too hot or not hot enough, it could indicate a thermostat issue.

Taking these simple steps can help extend the life expectancy of your system and prevent costly repairs.

When to Consider a New Hot Water System

Even with regular servicing, there comes a time when replacing your hot water heater is more cost-effective than ongoing repairs. Consider a new hot water system if:

• Your hot water unit is over 10–15 years old.
• You are frequently calling for repairs due to unexpected breakdowns.
• Your running costs have increased significantly, and the system is no longer energy efficient.
• There are visible signs of tank corrosion, structural damage, or leaks.
• You are interested in switching to a solar water heater or a heat pump for improved energy efficiency.

Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient hot water system can provide long-term savings and a more reliable hot water supply.

Ensure Reliable Hot Water – Book a Professional Service Today

A well-maintained hot water system is crucial for energy efficiency, reliable performance, and cost savings. Ignoring regular maintenance can lead to system failure, higher energy bills, and costly repairs.

By scheduling a hot water service with a professional plumber, you can ensure optimal performance, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and extend the life expectancy of your hot water heater.

If your hot water system needs professional servicing or an upgrade, our experienced team can help. Contact us today to book an inspection and keep your hot water running smoothly all year round.