Understanding your hot water system is important for planning replacements, avoiding unexpected breakdowns, and extending the lifespan of your appliance. If you are unsure of your type of hot water system, how it operates, or its average lifespan, continue reading below.
How long your hot water system lasts depends on factors such as the type of hot water system, the water quality in the area, regularly scheduled maintenance, and so on.
In this blog, we’ll cover the various types of hot water systems, the factors that influence their longevity, signs that it’s time for a replacement, and tips for extending their lifespan.
Types of Hot Water Systems
The different types of hot water systems include:
- Gas Hot Water System
- Electric Hot Water System
- Solar Hot Water System
- Heat Pump Water Heaters
Gas Hot Water Systems
This type of hot water system heats water quickly by burning gas to heat water that is usually stored in a tank.
Electric Hot Water Systems
Electric systems use an electric element to heat water in a tank. Their simplicity and availability for homes without gas connections make them a popular, widely used water heating option.
Solar Hot Water Systems
These hot water systems use energy from the sun to heat water via solar panels installed on the roof. Solar hot water systems are eco-friendly and cost-effective options that are gaining popularity across Queensland.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters are energy-efficient and great for moderate to warm climates. They work by extracting heat from the surrounding air and using it to warm water.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Hot Water Systems
Usage and Demand
The frequency and volume of use also affect the lifespan of your hot water system. The more frequently your hot water system is used, naturally the harder it works. For this reason, high-demand households may experience faster wear and a shorter lifespan on their hot water systems.
Water Quality
The quality of the water in your area can also impact the lifespan of your hot water system. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium that can lead to sediment buildup and corrosion. This causes damage over time, reduces efficiency, and shortens the overall lifespan of your appliance.
Installation Quality
A poor setup by incompetent plumbers can do more harm than good in the long run. A professional installation guarantees that your hot water system operates correctly and avoids any installation-related issues.
Regular Maintenance
Maintenance can ultimately prolong the life of your hot water system by preventing minor issues from escalating further. This includes routine tasks such as flushing the system, replacing anode rods, and checking the components.
Average Lifespan of Hot Water Systems
Many water heaters today come without tanks and last twice as long as traditional hot water systems. You can add almost 10 more years to your heater’s lifespan with regularly scheduled maintenance.
The lifespan of a hot water system depends on a combination of usage, maintenance, and water quality. If your home is in an area with a supply of hard water, the internal components can get damaged quickly and shorten the lifespan of your system by nearly two years.
If you live in an area with hard water, installing a water softener is your best option. It reduces mineral build-up in your hot water heater and extends its lifespan. Regularly flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod also help reduce the damage caused by hard water.
Gas Hot Water Systems Average Lifespan
Tank: 8-12 years
Tankless: 20 years
Electric Hot Water Systems Average Lifespan
Tank: 10-15 years
Tankless: 20 years
Solar Hot Water Systems Average Lifespan
10-20 years
Heat Pump Water Heaters Average Lifespan
10-15 years
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Hot Water System
Telltale signs to look out for are regular breakdowns and malfunctions, heating inefficiency, leaks, and corrosion.
Generally, your hot water system should be replaced once it has reached the 10-year mark. To estimate the age of your unit, refer to the manufacturer’s label for the manufacture date.
Frequent Breakdowns
If your hot water system is between 10-15 years old and frequently breaks down, it may be time to start looking for a replacement system.
Inefficient Heating
If you aren’t getting any hot water at all or there’s a noticeable decline in efficiency, then it’s time to replace your hot water system.
Leaks and Corrosion
Visible leaks and corrosion are clear indicators that you need a replacement. Signs of this include:
- leaks from the valves or pipes
- a sizzling noise coming from the tank
- visible rust around the fittings
- hot water is brownish in colour
Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Hot Water System
Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance using a licenced plumber can alert you to minor problems before they become major. A plumber can check to see if your system is running properly, identify issues (if any), and diagnose them on the spot. It is recommended that you service your hot water system bi-annually.
Flushing the System
Regularly flushing the system removes the sediment build-up from hard water or poor water quality in your area.
Replacing Anode Rods
The anode rod in a hot water tank helps prevent rust by attracting the minerals that turn into sediment. Replacing it every few years can extend the life of your hot water system.
Monitoring Water Pressure
Excessive water pressure can strain your system. Replace the pressure and hot water tempering valve as required (or every 5 years). Use a pressure regulator to maintain safe pressure levels.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Complex Repairs
If the repairs are beyond your scope of knowledge or are too severe, it’s best to consult a professional. Issues such as gas leaks, electrical faults, or major component failures should always be handled by a licenced plumber.
Regular Maintenance
As mentioned before, having a qualified professional perform regular maintenance can help you identify issues early. Licenced plumbers have the tools and expertise to thoroughly perform maintenance and repair minor issues on the spot.
Contact Good Hands Plumbing for Hot Water System Services
It’s always best to consult a professional regarding essential services that run through your home. Good Hands Plumbing is a small team of quality, qualified Inner West plumbers experienced in all hot water system types. Contact us today for all your plumbing and hot water services.
