When the morning shower turns unexpectedly cold or your water suddenly runs lukewarm, it raises the question: how do I know if my hot water service is working? Whether you’re using electric hot water systems or gas hot water systems, knowing what to check can prevent bigger problems down the track.
At Melbourne Heating and Cooling, we understand how crucial a functioning hot water system is to your daily routine. Here, we’ll explore common hot water problems, what signs to look for, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Key Signs Your Hot Water System Is Working Properly
A properly functioning hot water unit will:
- Deliver a consistent hot water supply with stable water temperature.
- Remain quiet with no unusual noises like banging or popping.
- Keep the pilot light (for gas water heaters) or circuit breaker (for electric water heaters) on without tripping.
- Maintain adequate water pressure through all hot taps.
If your system is doing all of this, it’s likely functioning properly.
Warning Signs of a Faulty Hot Water System
Be aware of the following warning signs of a hot water system malfunction:
- Lack of hot water or frequent cold showers.
- Inconsistent water temperature or fluctuating heat from the hot tap.
- Unusual noises from the hot water tank, often caused by sediment buildup.
- Leaking water heater, visible moisture near the storage tank or valves.
- Pilot light going out frequently (gas hot water).
- Higher energy bills than usual, which may point to heating element issues or a broken thermostat.
What You Can Check Before Calling a Professional
There are some basic steps you can take to diagnose common water heater problems:
- Check the power supply: Make sure the hot water main switch hasn’t been turned off. Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Inspect the gas supply: For gas hot water units, check that the gas line is on and the pilot button ignites the pilot light.
- Check the relief valve: Lift and release the pressure relief valve to ensure it operates correctly.
- Test thermostat settings: If the water is too hot or cold, the hot water thermostat may need adjustment.
If your system is not functioning properly despite these checks, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
What a Professional Will Inspect During Servicing
If your hot water unit isn’t working properly, a licensed plumber will:
- Test the thermostat and reset button (if applicable).
- Check for sediment buildup inside the storage tank.
- Inspect and replace a worn anode rod, which helps prevent corrosion.
- Evaluate both the upper heating element and lower heating element in electric water heaters.
- Confirm correct ignition of the pilot light, gas valve, and gas supply on gas hot water systems.
- Inspect the pressure relief valve and pressure reducing valve for blockages or failure.
- Confirm the electrical panel and power supply are stable and functioning.
These inspections ensure your system is functioning properly and help avoid a hot water emergency in the future.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
To keep your hot water heater operating efficiently between services:
- Check thermostat settings every few months.
- Look for leaks around the base of the tank or valves.
- Flush the tank (if needed) annually to remove sediment buildup.
- Follow your unit’s manufacturer’s instructions for ongoing maintenance.
These steps are especially important in older systems to prevent overheating, leaks, and other common problems.
When It’s Time for a New Hot Water System
In some cases, your hot water problems may indicate it’s time to replace the system. Consider upgrading to a new hot water system if:
- The unit is more than 10–12 years old.
- You frequently experience a lack of hot water.
- The system needs repeated repairs.
- You’re dealing with a leaking tank or high running costs.
A cost-effective, modern electric or gas hot water unit may save on energy bills and improve daily reliability.
Don’t Wait for a Hot Water Emergency
The earlier you identify and address hot water problems, the better. Whether you’re dealing with a pilot light that won’t stay on, fluctuating temperature, or a tripped circuit breaker, our team can help.
At Melbourne Heating and Cooling, we specialise in diagnosing and repairing electric hot water systems, gas hot water systems, and storage tanks. If your hot water unit isn’t working properly, we’ll provide a thorough inspection and honest advice on whether it can be repaired or needs replacing.
Contact us today to schedule a professional hot water service and avoid being caught off guard by a sudden cold shower.
