As summer bids us farewell for another year, we begin to switch our cool showers and poolside events for hot baths and fluffy slippers. During these cooler months, having a steady supply of hot water is a must.
To make sure you’re prepared for those chilly mornings, assess your hot water service for signs of wear.
Here are some things to look out for:
You have to leave the tap running
Find yourself standing at the kitchen sink for minutes trying to get hot water for the sink or pots? Leave the shower running for a while before you’re brave enough to jump in? A good hot water service will provide hot water in seconds, not minutes. Not only will a poor water heater mean more inconvenience for you, it’s also increasing your water usage unnecessarily meaning higher bills each month.
It’s been a while… a long while
Unfortunately, hot water heaters don’t last forever. So if it’s been quite a while since your service has been upgraded or replaced, it might be time to consider new alternatives. Typically, a system will last more than 10 years, but it does decline in its efficiency gradually during its lifetime.
To make things even trickier, a system can become inefficient without any notice at all. If your system is quite old, it could be worth getting it serviced or assessed to make sure it is still performing its best and is the right type of system for your needs.
It’s not consistent
Lush showers one day then cascading ice blasts the next? When your daily shower turns into a bit of a gamble, it’s time to do something about it. Inconsistencies in pressure or temperature could be signs that your unit is on the way out and needs a complete replacement, or it may simply need a service from a qualified professional.
New noises
All heaters will generate a little bit of noise whenever they are in use. However, any new or strange noises such as hissing or banging are cause for some further investigation. As with any changes, the earlier you investigate the less likely you’ll be to be caught out without any hot water at short notice.
Not sure if you’re ready for a service or upgrade?
If you would like to learn more about the hot water services that are available for your property, or would like to speak to a plumber about your needs, Plum Pride is here to help.
