How to ensure your hot water system will last

Unless damaged, your Perth hot water system will last for a long time but like all mechanical equipment, eventually, it will break down. In this article, we will go over the lifespan of a hot water system and the various types that are available.

Type of systems available

There are 4 types of hot water systems used in homes as well as in commercial buildings.

• Electric hot water system

• Gas hot water system

• Solar hot water system

• Heat pump water system

All 4 of these systems fall under 2 categories:

Continuous

Such systems will last for about 20 years. They do not have storage tanks but will heat water when it’s needed with on-demand type heating. In some cases, they are referred to as “instant hot water heaters”.

Storage

A storage tank system heats and stores the water inside storage tanks. Unfortunately, they are subject to corrosion, and leaking, over time the elements will break down. Manufacturers offer warranties for 5 to 10 years.

The lifespan of a hot water unit

In most cases, the lifespan depends on how often the system is used, the quality of the water, and how often maintenance has been performed. If you have hard water, the elements can be damaged, reducing the life of the unit by 2 years.

A breakdown of the units:

• Gas Hot Water Systems are tankless and last approximately 20 years

• Electric Hot Water Systems that have tanks last approximately 10 to 15 years

• Electric Hot Water Systems that are tankless will last approximately 20 years.

• Solar Hot Water Systems last approximately 10 to 20 years and have a high energy rating.

The newer models do not have tanks which means they will last twice as long as the older models. In most cases, these units will last for 10 years with regular maintenance.

How can I check the manufacturing date of my system?

The manufacturing date should be on the upper side of the cylinder. It should have a serial number or the manufacturing date on it. If you cannot find the date, use the serial number on the manufacturer’s website to get the date you are looking for.

Can I extend the life of my hot water system?

First off, there are steps you can take to help extend the life of your hot water system. Also, if you have an electric hot water system, they are known to go down during the winter months because more water is being used, especially for showers.

Here are some tips for you:

• Have regular maintenance performed to help increase the product’s life. Check with a licensed plumber to make sure the system is running the way it should. Your plumber can also check for any issues you might have and correct them before they becomes a big problem. It is highly recommended you have the system checked twice a year.

• Regularly check for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or leaking anywhere in the water heater and storage tank. Regular inspections can give you a heads up if there is a problem.

• It is recommended that every 5 years you replace the anode rods in your tanks, check the pressure, and the water’s temperature valve.