Is That Noise a Hot Water System Death Rattle? How to Foresee Your System's Death
There's nothing quite like stepping into a nice hot shower...that is, until you hear that awful rumble or clunking sound! This is what plumbers unaffectionately refer to as the “hot water system death rattle,” It's your system's way of saying “Help me!”
Unfortunately, once your system starts making that rattle sound, it could be on its last legs. Luckily, there are things you can look out for to prevent it from getting this far.
It's Noisy!
A noisy hot water system is a huge red flag. If you keep hearing banging sounds or gurgling noises, it generally means that there's sediment that has built up at the bottom of the tank. Over time, minerals and debris in the water harden, which causes the system to work harder and can lead to those strange sounds. Don't ignore it. It will only get worse.
Visible Leaks
You don't need a professional to tell you that if there's water pooling around the bottom of your hot water system, it's not a good sign. Leaks could mean anything from a loose valve to a crack in the tank itself. Leaks are generally fixable, but a crack in the tank can result in the death of your system. You need to have it looked at right away - hot water installations Sydney professionals can assist.
Low Water Pressure
You've got into the shower and the water is nice and warm, but it's barely dripping out! If you notice your system has reduced water pressure, it could be a result of mineral buildup or rust inside the hot water system. This will affect your shower quality and the system's efficiency, so it's important you have proper maintenance.
Brown Water
You don't want to be bathing in water that has a reddish-brown tinge to it. Not only is it unpleasant to look at, but it's also a clear sign of internal corrosion of the tank. This can weaken the tank's structure and trigger leaks, so it's important that if you have an older system, you have it serviced regularly to prevent this.
What Do You Do If You See These Signs?
The first thing to do is call the plumber. They can assess the issue and confirm whether it's possible to repair the hot water system or if a replacement is necessary. If your current system has given up, it's time to explore options for a new system. There are some fantastic hot water systems on the market, so you'll easily find one to suit your household's needs.