Hot water is essential for so many of life’s daily tasks. Taking a shower, washing the dishes, doing the laundry—the list goes on. If your hot water system isn’t working efficiently, these important tasks can become cumbersome. For quality hot water systems, Newcastle plumbers Murphy Plumbing have a professional team of gasfitters qualified in servicing, installation and maintenance of these systems.
The same can be said about hot water that doesn’t last long. Older, unmaintained hot water systems can cause a lot of strife, especially for large households where several people need to take a shower in the morning. The first person in enjoys an invigorating, hot shower, while the next person is left standing under a lukewarm, uninspiring stream.
It doesn’t have to be that way! If you make sure to maintain your hot water system and follow the right steps to keep it running at full capacity, you’ll never need to worry about cold water again.
1. Regularly check your hot water system’s anode rod
Changing your hot water system’s anode rod at least every four years is the best way to extend its life. The anode rod is a specialised metal element, designed to slowly dissolve, preventing the tank itself from corroding. When the rod depletes, the tank is no longer protected from corrosion.That’s why you need to replace your anode rod before it degrades completely. A licensed plumber can help you replace your system’s anode rod to keep it running at full capacity.
2. Ensure your unit is properly sized for your household
A correctly sized hot water unit is essential for a smoothly running system. The service provider installing your system can accurately estimate the size you’ll need from your household’s general hot water usage. During peak demand, your hot water system should maintain a temperature rise of at least 21 degrees above the incoming water supply.3. Check if your hot water system requires flushing
Hot water flushing should be done at least once a year. Over time, sediment will build up at the bottom of your tank, especially if you live in a hard water area. The heating efficiency and longevity of your system will suffer as a result. The sediment needs to be drained out, but flushing your hot water system isn’t easy to do on your own. We recommend contacting a professional plumber in Newcastle to handle the project. Don’t risk damaging your system by trying to fix it yourself!4. Insulate your hot water system
An insulated hot water system is especially important if the unit sits in a chilly basement, attic or garage. An insulation blanket is especially useful for older hot water systems as insulating the unit will increase its efficiency and longevity while helping you save on energy bills. Insulating your water heater can reduce heat loss by 25% to 45%.If you’re looking for a licensed plumber to install hot water systems, Newcastle’s Murphy Plumbing can help. Start a conversation with us today to learn more about our domestic and commercial plumbing services.
