First, it's important to understand how a hot water system actually works in order to identify any potential faults. Hot water systems consist of pipes and tanks, and these are connected to a heat source such as electricity or gas. The heat from the source is transferred through the pipes, which warms up the water in the tank. This is then directed to your faucets and showers so you can enjoy a hot shower or bath.

In Australia, the most popular types of hot water systems are electric, gas and solar. Each of these works slightly differently, but the basic principle is the same. For instance, a solar hot water system uses the sun's energy to heat water, whereas an electric hot water heater uses electricity to heat the same water.

Now that you know how a hot water system works, it's time to find out why it might be leaking.

Over time, the pipes and tanks can corrode due to age, causing them to become brittle and eventually leak. A leaking hot water tank is sometimes due to corrosion.



Anode rod deterioration

The anode rod inside the tank helps prevent corrosion. If it deteriorates, it can lead to leaks because the water will leak through the space where the anode rod was previously located.



Poor installation

Over time, inlet and outlet connections, such as a cold water inlet valve and hot water outlet valve, can become loose or damaged, causing water to seep out. There's also a chance that the seals may have worn out.



Rapid temperature changes can cause the pipes to expand and contract, leading to cracks or leaks.



Too much pressure

Water heaters deal with naturally occurring water pressure. But if the water temperature is set too high, it can cause the pressure to shoot up to unsafe levels and overwhelm the pressure relief valve, resulting in water leaks.



Sediment collection

Sediment can collect at the bottom of the hot water tank. When there's too much build-up, it can cause cracks that serve as the source of leaks.



Now that you know the causes of a leaking hot water system, let's take a look at some of the signs that your system is about to fail:

1. You're noticing a decrease in water pressure or an increase in the amount of time it takes to get hot water. If you've noticed either of these, it's likely that your hot water system is clogged with sediment and needs to be cleaned out by a professional.
2. Your hot water has developed a strange taste or odour. If you're noticing a metallic taste or smell, it's likely that there is corrosion occurring in your hot water system and the tank needs to be replaced.
3. You're noticing an increase in your water bills despite not using more water than usual. This is usually indicative of a leak somewhere in the system which needs to be inspected and repaired.
4. You're hearing strange noises coming from the hot water system when it is running. If you hear gurgling, banging, or thumping sounds coming from your hot water heater, there is likely some sort of mechanical problem that needs to be addressed by a professional plumber.

Don't wait to take action — if you're experiencing any of these signs, it's important to call a professional plumber as soon as possible before the issue reaches the point of needing expensive repairs. A professional plumber can inspect your hot water system, identify the problem, and provide you with an effective solution that will keep your home's hot water supply safe.



Can you fix a leaking hot water system?

Yes, a leaking hot water system can be repaired. As for whether you need a professional plumber or can do it yourself, that depends on the extent of the damage and your own ability to undertake plumbing repairs.

If you want to try your hand at repairing your own system, here are a few steps you can take.

If you have a gas-powered unit, make sure the area around your hot water system is well-ventilated before you open up any parts of it, as this could be dangerous due to carbon monoxide poisoning in some instances.



Replace the O-rings

Replace any O-rings on fittings and valves if they appear worn or damaged. O-rings are a common source of leakage in hot water systems, so it’s important to be vigilant in this step.



Examine the pressure relief valve

Check the pressure relief valve for any blockages or damage. This is another common cause of leaks in hot water systems, so make sure you check it regularly. If you notice any signs of leaking, we recommend letting a plumber take care of the repairs as it can be dangerous to change yourself.



Check the connections

Examine the connections between the system and its components to make sure they are tight and secure. If any of them appear loose, you can easily tighten them with a wrench.

If you don’t feel comfortable making repairs yourself, it is best to call a professional plumber for expert help. They will have the experience and know-how to safely repair any issues with your hot water system. They may also be able to provide advice on how to prevent future problems from occurring.

Should you repair or replace your hot water heater?

Now that you know more about how to deal with a hot water system leaking, it's important to remember that some of these types of repairs can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced professionals. One such example is the task of replacing a pressure relief valve.

If you are ever in doubt about the extent of damage or what steps need to be taken for proper repair, get in touch with Lexicon Plumbing. We will ensure that your hot water system is fixed correctly and in a timely manner, giving you peace of mind that your home is safe, comfortable, and abundant in hot water for those cold winter days.