Your home’s hot water supply is one of the aspects you give very little thought to until you open the shower to find none. Alternatively, you may have found that sharing the hot water your system offers is challenging because your family’s needs have changed. Both of these instances may indicate that it’s time to upgrade your existing hot water system.
It’s with this in mind that many locals are opting for the upgraded hot water service Melbourne plumbers are offering. While it may sound as easy as ordering the installation of a new unit, there are a few key pointers that will help you choose a more suitable model. This post takes a closer look at a few key tips to know before you start the shopping process.
Always Choose a Quality Upgrade Rather than a Simple Replacement
If your hot water system has started displaying signs of needing repairs or replacement, your first thought may be to order the same model and size as the one you already have. However, our experts recommend using this opportunity to upgrade to a larger, more efficient unit that will see you saving money and hassle in the long run. Here are a few tips to help you do this.
- Re-Evaluate the Overall Size and Needs of Your Home
If you’re still using the same water heater that you found when you moved in, there’s a very strong possibility that you’re not entirely happy with its output. This is especially the case if you’ve moved a large family into a home that previously housed two or three people.
In this instance, you will find your family competing for shower time, or some individuals may even be left having a cold shower when the hot water has run out. A simple way to eliminate this inconvenience is to choose a bigger model when it’s time to replace your water heater.
Start this process by calculating how much hot water you need versus what’s generally available. Your plumber will be able to provide you with recommendations for the most energy-efficient solution for larger families. Alternatively, you can also use the opportunity to downgrade a larger unit if you’re kids have moved out.
- Ditch the DIY Idea
No matter how handy you are with DIY repairs and replacements around your home, our experts recommend always using a professional plumber for your hot water system replacement or repair. This will ensure that your system is installed correctly and safely. Keep in mind that a professional installation may be required for insurance or warranty purposes.
A few of the basic maintenance services on offer for existing hot water systems are listed as:
- Removing sludge or debris from the cylinder
- Cleaning and replacing the pilot and burner
- Measure and assess the hot water temperature and pressure
- Advise if a tempering valve is required
- Check and replace the anode
- Inspect and replace the pressure & temperature relief valve according to manufacturer recommendations
- Examine and replace the thermocouple
- Replace the gas controller
- Assess and adjust the gas pressure
If you don’t need an upgrade, then an assessment and basic service may be all that’s needed. Start by having your existing unit inspected and assessed. Your plumber will make the necessary recommendations.
- Assess the Available Space
While upgrading your hot water system may sound like a good idea, you will need to assess the space you have available. This is especially the case if you’re upgrading to a larger unit, and your older model was kept indoors. Additionally, switching from an electric water heater to a gas model may see your plumber making recommendations for an outdoor installation.
This is because gas heaters require specific ventilation. Outdoor placements also reduce moisture build-up and overall noise. Speak to your plumber about the best suggestions for efficient and safe placement of your new water heater. Be sure to discuss early on, as a change of location may come with additional costs to move existing pipes and fixtures.
- Prioritise Energy Efficiency
A little-known fact is that older water heater models are usually enormous energy guzzlers. In fact, it’s estimated that about 25% of the average Australian household’s total energy costs come from the hot water system.
Changing your hot water system to a more energy-efficient alternative will help you see a huge reduction in these costs. Always opt for a unit that has a high Energy Star rating, as these offer maximum energy efficiency. This will not only make your home more sustainable but will save you money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
The good news is that if you address your hot water system issues early enough, repairs may still be an option. However, older, smaller units may require replacement. Use this opportunity to upgrade your hot water system to accommodate your current and future needs. Doing this will not only be more energy efficient in the long run, but will also reduce the morning rush for hot water!
