Who fixes hot water systems

Hot water system repair

A hot water system is quite helpful during the cold season. However, when it gets faulty, fixing it may seem so daunting. After all, fixing hot water systems may involve both plumbing and electrical work.

This article is out to help answer the question: who fixes hot water systems? In the same vein, related concepts such as types of hot water systems, factors to consider when choosing one, common problems with hot water systems, and when to call an electrician or plumber are discussed.

Types of hot water systems

The varieties of hot water units by their modes of operation include gas hot water systems and electric hot water systems. Others are solar hot water systems or a combination of electric and gas hot water system types.

The following are the different types of hot water systems:

Electric hot water system

The electric hot water system has some benefits. It heats and conserves water. As such, water is available when you need it. In addition, it provides full mains force to several outlets at once. This includes showers, bathtubs, basins, dishwashers, and washing machines.

While you spend the least amount to buy and install components of the system, the electric hot water system is relatively costly to run. You may find that your day hot water electricity rate is higher than at night because people rarely shower overnight.

Furthermore, its significant size results in excessive energy usage as more water than needed is heated daily.

Gas hot water system

Usually, you install gas hot water systems outside as per venting requirements. However, you can install it indoors with a flue. There are energy efficiency star ratings that give you a guide on energy consumption. Commonly, an electric ignition makes it more economical. Others have pilot lighting, which uses a small amount of gas.

A connection to natural gas lets you use a gas hot water system. The gas hot water system only heats water when hot water is needed. As such, you will not be affected by peak and off-peak charges. In other words, gas rates are not varied throughout your day. For this reason, it is less expensive to run than the electric system.

However, if you have no access to natural gas, you need storage for gas cylinders or LPG bottles. Gas hot water heaters will stop working if they run out of gas, and you will need to refill them.

Solar hot water system

This uses solar collector panels and a storage tank system. In the long run, a solar hot water system saves you money. You pay lower electricity bills since solar energy is used to heat water. Also, fewer greenhouse gases are released, and the system is eco-friendly.

However, the initial solar hot water system installation cost is somewhat relatively high.

Instant hot water system

It is feasible to install an instant hot water system that provides hot water simultaneously from multiple outlets. You only need to make sure it is large enough to accommodate your needs.

Therefore, consider the number of outlets when installing the system. How many outlets will meet your demand while not exceeding the system’s capacity? Also, note that installing a hot water system can be complicated.

Heat pump hot water system

This works like a fridge or air conditioner. It extracts heat from the air. Thereafter, it heats the water in the tank. It is best installed outdoors. The heat pump hot water system works best in warm temperatures. The installation does not require roof panels, and the continuous presence of sunlight is unnecessary for its function.

Considerations when choosing hot water systems

When you want to buy a new hot water system, you have to base your decision on several factors. You may have to consider what hot water system is suitable for your home. This comes before thinking of hot water brands like Rinnai hot water and Rheem hot water. Other brands are Bosch hot water, Dux hot water, and Aqua max hot water.

Here are some of the things to factor in:

• Decide on the right location for your hot water system installation. It could be indoors, on the roof, or outside.
• The overall size of the hot water heater needed should determine what hot water system is installed. Calculate the size based on the number of showers and baths your household takes daily.
• Consider your budget. The system’s purchase and installation costs might be higher than your budget. So, you should consider the running costs beforehand as the energy costs for running a hot water system matter.
• More focus is being placed on eco-friendly devices. As such, what is the environmental cost or CO2 impact of your prospective new hot water system?

Common hot water system issues

A faulty water heater can have a variety of hot water issues. Below are some common problems that various types of water heaters may have.

Electric hot water

Electric hot water heaters may have issues that include a blown fuse or faulty thermostat. Other issues are malfunctioning heating elements and faulty connections. For instance, you could improperly cross the hot and cold connections.

Gas hot water

The water heater in a gas hot water system could exhibit faults in various parts. These parts include the gas valve, the pilot light, the gas supply, and the thermocouple.

In the event you are experiencing or have ever experienced any of these common problems with your gas hot water system, you can invite gas fitters. Do make sure they are qualified to operate on gas systems and do gas fitting. Furthermore, they should be licensed, insured, and trained adequately.

Troubleshooting tips for hot water heaters

Read on for some handy hints on specific issues. Typically, these issues need some repairs or replacements.

No hot water

You may not have any hot water flowing out of your taps. But, do you have cold water running? Check the isolation valve if it is functioning. Also, you can check the hot water fuse box for electric hot water systems.

Find out if it is working. In addition, make sure the hot water power line is connected. The same goes for the power point. See if it is on. If you use a gas hot water system, see if there is gas in your gas bottle. Also, examine your gas line for issues.

No hot water and cold water

First, see if this is true for other taps in the home. Suppose it is general; head over to the main metre. See if the valve is on. If the issue is with just one water fixture, check the isolation valve. It should not be off.

Water leakage

For water leak detection, note the exact spot on the hot water system where the leak originated and have a plumber fix the problem.

Inadequate hot water

If the water from your taps is not hot enough, check the temperature settings on the hot water system.

Who fixes hot water systems?

Generally, you may invite a gas plumber to perform needed hot water repairs. Asking a different technician may cause errors or offer only short-term fixes. In the end, you just might end up spending more. Thus, you are better off inviting a hot water plumber. However, there are specific hot water system repair issues where you need a repair electrician.

Before calling a plumber or an electrician

You have to find out if you have a plumbing or electrical issue. This can help you decide how serious the problem is. Furthermore, you may feel confident enough to take on the job of fixing the problem yourself.

Inspect the circuit breaker

Go to your switch box’s circuit breaker. Has it been tripped? If yes, turn it back on. Then, see if the issue is solved.

Check the pressure release valve

Here is how to check your hot water system’s pressure release valve. There is a little lever at the top. This lets water flow into the overflow pipe. Simply pull the lever. A functioning valve will bring out close to a cup of water per day.

Hot water repairs requiring a plumber

Several hot water system repair issues may require the services of a plumber. For example, if your hot water tank is split or leaking, you need a plumber. The following are some other issues where you might invite a plumber.

Old water tank

You need a plumber’s repair services if your water tank is more than ten years old.

Rusted base

Rust may occur at the base of your hot water system. If it does, the inner tank may also be corroded. As such, you may need an entire hot water system replacement. But even if it does not, you still need to call a plumber.

Water leakage

Clearly, you need to call a plumber if you notice water leaking from your hot water system. The plumber will provide the right fix for the issue.

No hot water

You may need a hot water systems repair when you do not have water flowing out of the hot water taps.

Pressure release overflow

When you lift the lever and water flows out of the pressure relief valve, lift it again. Confirm if the overflow has stopped. Suppose it has not, contact a plumber.

Split water tank

Invite a plumber if you have a split water tank.

Water discolouration

If your hot water tap brings out discoloured or contaminated water, you need to call a plumber.

Hot water repairs requiring an electrician

You just may need an electrician to fix your hot water heater and not know it. You may not easily identify the problems. However, you can get your local hot water electrician to act as an emergency electrician. Thus, they can sort out unexpected electrical problems involving your hot water system.

Here are some issues requiring an electrician for hot water repairs:

Faulty circuit breaker

You may have tried to reset a tripped circuit breaker and not succeeded. Perhaps, you have a blown fuse. Your issue could also be that you need a switchboard upgrade. For these and other such problems, invite an electrician.

Broken thermostat

The thermostat, booster, and off-peak relay switch may be broken if your hot water is heated but not frigid. You need to get the thermostat checked.

Cylinders replacement

Rather than using a licensed plumber, you should invite an electrician to replace your cylinders. The wiring may need to be unplugged and reconnected.

Getting good hot water specialists

The following are some crucial considerations you should make when looking for a professional:

• Good master plumbers (who have passed required exams) know how to perform safety checks. They use safety devices properly and can replace safety switches.
• They are competent with proper licenses to handle emergency plumbing and hot water issues. For example, can they handle burst pipes or adjust tempering valves? They should also be fit to handle hot water replacements, electric hot water repairs, and instant gas hot water requirements.
• Check around for their customer rating. Look at the quality of previous work done. For example, see if it is relevant to your electrical renovation needs. Do they handle the commercial installation or work on rental property?
• It can be beneficial if they can perform appliance installation such as smoke alarm installs and ceiling fan installs. You would not have to source outside for some of these extra services.

Contact a reliable plumber or electrician near you

Finding out who fixes hot water systems begins by identifying the hot water repair issue. You have to know what type of hot water system you have and be familiar with common hot water problems before calling an electrician or plumber. You may have increased confidence to attempt fixing minor issues using the handy hints discussed above. However, contact a reliable plumber or electrician near you if the issue is more serious.