Picture this: it’s a chilly morning, and you’re getting ready for work. The thought of stepping into a cold shower makes you want to crawl back into bed. But thanks to your trusty hot water system, you know you’ll have a warm and refreshing shower to start your day off right.
A water heating system is the unsung hero of your home, quietly working behind the scenes to provide you with the hot water you need for your daily routine. As the name suggests, it’s a device used to heat and distribute water throughout your household. Either by transferring thermal energy from a fuel source or through the process of electric resistance heating, this component provides a reliable and steady supply of warm water.
The Growing Demand Of Hot Water Systems
A recent survey from GlobeNewswire revealed that the global water heater market size is anticipated to reach USD$140.76 billion (over AUD$216 billion) by 2032, with an impressive yearly growth rate of 27.29%. The increasing need for hot water systems in residential and commercial establishments primarily drives this high demand.
Generally, the life span of a hot water system varies depending on the type and make. Some systems may last up to 20 years, while others can break down in as little as 8 or 12 years. However, even if your water heater hasn’t reached its expiration date doesn’t mean it won’t suffer any defects.
Outdated or old hot water systems are just one factor determining replacement needs. Therefore, it’s important for homeowners to regularly inspect their hot water systems for potential wear and tear. After all, its abilities can be limited—eventually, you’ll replace this machine sooner or later.
Clear Signs You Need A Hot Water System Replacement
If you think something may be wrong with your hot water system, you can contact a company that specialises in hot water system solutions Melton. They have the expertise to determine any issues in the plumbing and the corresponding fixes.
But you should also keep an eye out for clear indications of when a replacement is needed. Here are tell-tale signs it’s time to have an upgrade.
- Inconsistent Water Temperature
Water heating system issues usually start with the most apparent symptom: inconsistent or erratic water temperature. When there’s a disruption in the normal functioning of your unit, you’ll experience either lukewarm or cold showers, regardless of the thermostat setting. This may be due to your system suffering from a broken heating element, thermostat, or a faulty pilot light.If you’ve already tried resetting the temperature, but it’s still producing cold water, especially when taking a shower, it’s time to call a plumbing service for an assessment. A professional can determine the root cause of your water heating problem and, ultimately, suggest a practical solution—a repair or a replacement.
- Strange Taste Or Odor In The Water
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 7.2 million US citizens get sick yearly from drinking contaminated water. And your hot water system could be one of the contributors to this problem.
Foul odor, rusty taste, and discolouration could be signs of bacteria and other contaminants in the water. It could be due to a faulty anode rod, which prevents the corrosion of steel tanks, or bacteria buildup in your hot water system. When this happens, your water heater can’t sense if the pilot light is on or off, causing the water to get too hot and creating foul-smelling byproducts. That said, it may be time to invest in a new hot water system with enhanced filtration systems. You don’t want to risk your health by drinking or using such water with impurities.
- Unusual Sound Coming From The Tank
The process of water heating normally produces sound. However, if you hear something strange where the sound is louder than normal, your unit might have malfunctioned. Odd noises from the water tank are usually caused by mineral deposits or sediment buildup. Alternatively, it might be a sign of corroded pipes or loose valves that cause air to escape.
To give you more insight, here’s a quick overview of what each noise means:
- Boiling or gurgling sounds mean that there’s air in the tank.
- A high-pitched whistling indicates a pressure problem.
- A thumping or banging sound means sediment has built up in the tank and must be flushed out.
- A humming noise usually points to a loose component.
Plumbing services can fix or repair some of these unusual sounds, but if the noise persists and creates a disturbance, it’s best to get a replacement. Don’t just wait for it to worsen; take a preventive approach by regularly inspecting the system and observing unusual changes or noises.
- Skyrocketing Utility Bills
According to the Australian Government, water heating accounts for 15% to 27% of the average household’s total energy use. It’s given that energy consumption doesn’t stay the same each month; there will be months where it’ll cost more than usual. But if you notice a drastic rise in your utility bills consecutively for at least two months, it’s time to check your hot water system.
The culprit of this skyrocketing bill could be an old or inefficient system. Upgrading to a modern hot water system is your best solution. Newer models are built with energy-saving features that consume less power. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also experience the convenience of having a reliable hot water system. Plus, you may also be eligible for government rebates, as they offer incentives for households upgrading to energy-efficient products. There’s nothing better than reducing your energy costs while being environmentally friendly.
- Repairs Becoming More Frequent
Over time, even the most reliable hot water systems will require servicing and repairs. If your hot water system is becoming more prone to repairs or requires frequent maintenance visits, it may be time to replace it.
Buying a new model is an investment, but they usually come with extended warranties and years of trouble-free use. And more importantly, you won’t have to deal with the hassle of constant breakdowns or pay for costly repairs. You can also take advantage of the latest features from modern water heaters, such as digital displays, temperature controls, and more systematic burners. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.
Stay Warm And Cozy With A Hot Water System Upgrade
A hot water system should be reliable and serve you well for many years. But if it’s outdated, inefficient, or constantly needing repairs, then it might be time for an upgrade. New models are designed to be more energy-efficient and provide long-term savings on energy bills.
Don’t let a faulty hot water unit mess up your day. Stay warm and cozy with a new one, and enjoy the comfort of having a quality system in no time. With the right hot water system and qualified plumbing professionals, you’ll surely get value for your money.
