Looking for Hot water system installation or repairs? We can help.
The chances are that you use the hot water system in your home every single day, yet most of us don’t give it a second thought until it stops working. If you experience any problems with your hot water system it is important to call a plumber immediately to avoid any further damage and get the system up and running as quickly as possible.
In many cases the system can be repaired, however, sometimes it may need to be replaced. Alternatively, you may be looking to replace your hot water system because you want to upgrade to a larger system or change to a different type.
Watermark Plumbing are qualified and experienced in hot water system installation and hot water system repairs. There is nothing about hot water system installation that we don’t know.
Types of hot water system
If you are considering replacing your hot water system for any reason, it is an excellent time to consider the different types of hot water system as you may wish to switch.
There are two main types of hot water system: storage and instantaneous (also known as continuous flow). Instantaneous systems can run off either electricity or gas, and they work by heating the water as required when it is needed.
By contrast storage systems have a hot water tank made from either stainless steel or vitreous enamel. Material is an important decision, as it affects the initial cost of the system, how long it will last for, the purity of the water, and how much maintenance it may need.
In addition, there are also hybrid systems. These combine the advantages of both instantaneous and storage systems.
There are also four different potential power sources for hot water systems. These include:
- Gas
- Electricity
- Heat pump
- Solar
Electric hot water systems
Electric hot water systems are powered by your home’s power system, which may use electricity from the grid or solar power. They usually cost less to purchase and install compared to other options such as gas, heat pump, or solar-powered systems, however, the running costs tend to be higher.
Gas hot water systems
Gas hot water systems use a gas burner to heat up water to the required temperature. They can run off either the gas mains or LPG gas. They are generally fairly energy efficient, and even more efficient than solar systems that are boosted by non-renewable electricity. Whilst they are usually more expensive to purchase than electric systems, the running costs are generally lower.
Heat pump hot water systems
Heat pump hot water systems transfer heat from the outside air to the water inside the system via a heat exchange system. However, they still work in very cold conditions, and certainly in Queensland’s temperatures.
Solar hot water systems
Solar hot water systems absorb energy from the sun, convert it to heat and store it for when it is needed. As a back up, a gas or electric booster is included. If you have solar panels, this may provide the majority of the boosting energy.
There are two types of solar hot water systems: open coupled (also called split system) or close-coupled. Close-coupled systems are stored on your roof. The sun heats the water and thermosyphoning transfers it through the panels. It has no moving parts, which means that they generally have fewer maintenance problems.
With open coupled systems, the panels are stored on the roof, and the tank sits on the ground, which many people prefer as it provides the roof with a more streamlined appearance. A circulating pump delivers the water through the panels to heat up and then returns it back to the tank. Open coupled systems have more moving parts, which means that they often need increased maintenance.
Whilst solar hot water systems often cost more to purchase and install, they will save you a fair bit of money in the long run.
Watermark Plumbing are qualified installers and repairers of all types of Hot water systems.
Signs that there is a problem with your hot water system
Not all Hot water system problems require a whole new set up. Sometimes a simple part replacement or service can do the trick! Here are a few signs that will let you know that your Hot Water System is no longer functioning properly and may need a part replaced.
- Lukewarm water or hot water running out too quickly? Your thermostat, valve, or element may be faulty and need replacing
- Water leaking? There are valves that operate as part of your system that may, when broken, cause your HWS to leak. These can be easily replaced.
- Rust?. Whilst not always a sign of damage, it is worth investigating.
- Discoloured water? Perhaps you have rust or sediment at the bottom of your Hot water system.
- Tank at a funny angle? Erosion, rain or leaks can erode the ground below the tank. Your system will need to be drained and reinstalled on top of a cement slab. It will cause more damage if you don’t!
If you experience any of the above problems, then contact Watermark Plumbing now. We have a local family business and have over 40 yrs combined experience in hot water system installation and hot water system repairs in Brisbane.
Furthermore, we understand that if there is a problem with your hot water system then you want it to be fixed as soon as possible. We can assess the problem, find the cause, and determine whether the system can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. Either way, we can help.
