Your Guide to Troubleshooting Common Hot Water System Problems

A nice, hot shower is one of life's little luxuries. But what do you do when you turn the tap and icy water greets you instead?

Hot water system problems can quickly throw a wrench into your daily routine. However, before you panic, there are some common issues you can troubleshoot yourself, while others will require a professional plumber to repair or replace your system. In this guide, we'll walk you through these common problems and solutions to help you get your hot water back up and running.

No Hot Water At All

One of the most common issues and complaints about hot water systems is that they are not producing any hot water at all. There are a few possible causes for this:

• Power Supply Issues: Start by checking if your hot water system is receiving power. Sometimes, a blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or disconnected power supply can be the culprit. For power supply issues, reset the circuit breaker or replace a blown fuse.

• Thermostat Issues: Malfunctioning thermostats can prevent your water heater from reaching the desired temperature. You can adjust the thermostat settings to the desired temperature to fix this. If it's malfunctioning, it may need replacing.

• Faulty Pilot Light: For gas water heaters, a pilot light that won't stay lit can result in no hot water. If it's out, follow the manufacturer's instructions to relight it.

Inadequate Hot Water

Inadequate or insufficient hot water can be highly frustrating, especially if you’re the last to shower in the middle of winter. This can be caused by a number of issues, including:

• Thermostat Settings: Check the thermostat on your hot water system. It may be set too low, causing lukewarm water. If your water is not hot enough, you can adjust the thermostat to a higher temperature if necessary.

• Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can accumulate in the tank, reducing its heating efficiency. To reduce this buildup, you can flush or drain the tank as per the manufacturer's instructions or hire a professional plumber.

• Undersized Unit: If your heater is too small for your household's needs, you might run out of hot water quickly. Check if your heater is appropriately sized for your household's hot water usage and needs. If not, you should have it replaced with a larger system.

• Failed or Faulty Tempering Valve: A tempering valve, also known as a mixing valve or a thermostatic mixing valve, is a critical component in hot water systems, especially in domestic and commercial settings. Its primary purpose is to control and regulate the temperature of the hot water being delivered to various fixtures. Tempering valves have strainers built in which can build up with sediment and cause it to fail. This will cause loss in temperature or water pressure.

Leaking Water Heater

If you notice water pooling at the base or running down the side of your hot water system, there’s clearly an issue, and your system may require repairs or replacement. This can be caused by:

• Corrosion: Corrosion can cause small leaks in the tank or around fittings, often indicating a failing water heater. This issue requires having your tank replaced.

• Faulty Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve: A malfunctioning TPR valve can cause leaks. Test the TPR valve by lifting and releasing it. If water continues to flow, Consult a professional plumber to evaluate and fix or replace the pressure issue.

• Loose Connections: Leaks might also result from loose or damaged plumbing connections. Tighten loose connections or replace damaged parts.

Strange Noises

Like with many electrical and household appliances and systems, strange noises are a sign that something is not working as it should. Strange noises in or around your hot water system can be due to:

• Sediment Accumulation: When sediment builds up at the bottom of the tank, it can create popping or rumbling sounds during heating. As a preventive measure, regularly flush the tank to remove sediment. If the noise persists, contact a plumbing professional.

• Pressure Issues: High pressure in the tank might cause rumbling or banging sounds. To troubleshoot this, you can check and adjust the pressure relief valve or call a plumber.

• Heating Element Issues: A faulty heating element can result in hissing or sizzling noises. If the heating element appears to be the problem, consider a replacement.

Smelly or Discoloured Water

Smelly or discoloured water from your hot water system is unpleasant and unsanitary and should be rectified quickly. This can be caused by bacteria or corrosion:

• Bacteria Growth: Sometimes, bacteria can proliferate within the water heater, causing unpleasant odours. This can be caused by the water temperature in the tank being too low due to a faulty thermostat. The water temperature in the tank needs to stay above 60ࠬࠬC to prevent bacteria growth.

• Corrosion: Corrosion inside the tank may lead to rusty or discoloured water. Consider replacing the anode rod or the entire unit within the tank to prevent further deterioration.

Follow These Tips to Get Your Hot Water System Running Like New

While these troubleshooting steps can help you address common hot water system problems, it's essential to prioritise safety. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with any of these tasks, it's always a good idea to consult a professional plumber or technician.

Your hot water system is an essential component of your home, and understanding how to troubleshoot and maintain it can save you from chilly surprises and unexpected expenses. So, the next time your hot water system acts up, follow these guidelines, and you'll be on your way to enjoying soothing, warm showers once again.

Add in HWS servicing how often etc.- I have found this info below on the Rheem and Thermann pages.

Thermann Electric hot water systems.

Five Year Service (All Water Heaters)

This service should only be carried out by a licensed tradesperson. In locations where the water has Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) exceeding 600 mg/L, this service is recommended every 3 years.

The service should include the following

• Replace the PTR Valve.
• Inspect and flush the expansion control valve (if installed).
• Replace the anode.
• Drain and flush the water heater.

Thermann Gas hot water systems.

Annual Service (Gas Storage Water Heaters)

This service should only be carried out by a licensed tradesperson.

The service should include the following

• Inspect and flush the PTR Valve and expansion control valve (if installed).
• Check the spark gap, gas control valve and thermocouple.
• Check and if necessary adjust the main burner pressure.
• Clean and check the main burner and the pilot light.

Rheem Electric Hot water systems.

MAJOR SERVICE EVERY SIX YEARS It is recommended a major service be conducted on the water heater every six (6) years.

Warning

Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out by qualified personnel. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent.

Note

The major service and routine replacement of any components, such as the anode and relief valve(s), are not included in the Rheem warranty. A charge will be made for this work. Only genuine replacement parts should be used on this water heater.

The major service includes the following actions

• Replace the temperature limiting valve (RheemPlus model).
• Replace the temperature pressure relief valve.
• Inspect and flush the expansion control valve (if fitted). If required, replace the valve.
• In areas with water supplies that are either softened or desalinated, or where the water supply may alternate or is variable, inspect and (if there is any sign of depletion) replace the anode. Refer to “Anode Inspection and Replacement” on page 20.
• Check the electric heating unit for excessive calcium build-up or corrosion and replace if necessary.
• Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
• Inspect all connections.
• Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.