Keep Your Electric Hot Water System in Top Shape

Water heating is one of the largest contributors to household energy consumption in Australia, accounting for 23% of the energy used in an average home—second only to heating, cooling, and appliances. In some households, this percentage can be even higher (Energy Consult, 2022). Given the significant energy demands, it’s no surprise that electric hot water systems play a crucial role in the comfort of Australian households. From steaming morning showers to keeping dishes clean, these systems work tirelessly to make everyday tasks easier.

Yet, many homeowners overlook the importance of regular maintenance, often waiting until a problem arises to pay attention. The cost of neglecting this vital care can lead to skyrocketing bills, reduced efficiency, and untimely breakdowns—all of which can be avoided with annual maintenance. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips for keeping your hot water system in top shape, ensuring it serves you efficiently for years to come.

Know Your Electric Hot Water System

Electric hot water systems are essential components of Australian households, providing reliable hot water for daily tasks such as showering, dishwashing, and laundry. Key components of an electric hot water heater include the heating element, thermostat, anode rod, hot water tank, and pressure relief valve. These parts work together to heat water effectively and maintain the system’s efficiency.

Without proper maintenance, hot water systems can suffer from sediment buildup, tank corrosion, decreased energy efficiency, and even electrical hazards. Regular maintenance tasks such as flushing the water heater tank and inspecting the heating elements can help prevent sediment buildup and maintain optimal performance. Proper maintenance also ensures that components like the anode rod are functioning correctly, extending the system’s lifespan and reducing the risk of water leaks or tank corrosion.

By understanding the key components and their roles, homeowners can perform basic maintenance activities and recognise when professional assistance is needed. Establishing a maintenance schedule that includes annual inspections and routine maintenance helps maintain the water heater’s efficiency, ensures the system functions properly and prevents costly breakdowns.

Inspect the Tank for Signs of Wear and Tear

Regular inspections of your hot water tank are a critical part of hot water system maintenance. To keep your electric water heater in good working order, it is recommended to inspect the hot water unit at least once a year for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or leaks. Catching issues like tank corrosion or water leaks early can save on utility bills and prevent the need for costly replacements.

Here’s a simple guide to checking your water heater tank:

1. Look for Water Pooling: Inspect the area around the base of the hot water tank for any signs of water pooling, which could indicate a leak in the tank or the connections.
2. Examine for Rust or Cracks: Carefully inspect the external surface of the water heater for rust spots, cracks, or other visible damage. Tank corrosion can lead to structural weakness and ultimately cause the system to fail.
3. Check the Pressure Relief Valve: The temperature pressure relief valve is an essential component for safety. Make sure the relief valve is functioning properly to prevent excess pressure buildup in the tank, which can be hazardous.

Performing these maintenance tasks regularly ensures that your hot water system maintains optimal temperature and energy efficiency. If you notice any significant wear or damage, seek professional assistance. A professional plumber can provide a thorough inspection, address any issues, and offer preventive maintenance to keep your system functioning correctly and safely.

Routine maintenance of your electric heater is vital to maintain energy savings, prevent heat loss, and prolong the system’s lifespan. Regularly flushing the water heater tank to remove mineral deposits and mineral buildup will also improve water quality and ensure the system’s efficiency. Remember, regular inspections and maintenance activities are key to keeping your electric hot water system operating smoothly and effectively, and seeking professional service when needed is always a smart move.

Flush the Tank to Remove Sediment

Flushing your electric hot water heater tank is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can perform to ensure long-term efficiency. Sediment buildup is a common issue in electric water heaters that leads to inefficiency, overheating, and even tank failure. Minerals in Australian water contribute to sediment accumulation over time, which can settle at the bottom of the hot water tank, affecting performance.

Here’s a simple DIY guide to flushing the tank:

1. Turn Off the Power Supply: Begin by turning off the electric power supply to the hot water heater to avoid electrical hazards during maintenance.
2. Connect a Garden Hose to the Drain Valve: Attach a garden hose to the drain valve located near the bottom of the hot water tank. Ensure the hose runs to a safe drainage area.
3. Drain the Water: Open the drain valve and allow the water to drain until it runs clear. This helps remove the accumulated sediment and mineral deposits.
4. Refill and Restore Power: Close the drain valve, remove the hose, refill the hot water tank with cold water, and turn the power supply back on.

Skipping this critical task can cause damage to the heating elements, reduce water capacity, and lead to increased utility bills. Homeowners who are uncomfortable performing this task themselves can rely on professional assistance to ensure proper maintenance.

Check and Replace the Anode Rod

The anode rod is an essential component of your electric water heater that plays a crucial role in preventing tank corrosion. It is a sacrificial component designed to attract corrosive elements within the water supply, thus protecting the water heater tank from rusting. Over time, the anode rod deteriorates and must be replaced to maintain its effectiveness.

Here’s how to check and replace the anode rod:

1. Turn Off the System: Before beginning, turn off the power supply to the electric water heater and the cold water supply to avoid electrical connections being compromised.
2. Unscrew and Inspect the Rod: Locate the anode rod at the top of the hot water heater and unscrew it. Regularly inspect the rod for significant wear or thinning—this is a sign that it needs replacement.
3. Replace as Needed: Anode rods typically need replacement every 3-5 years or sooner if the water has a high mineral content. Failing to replace a deteriorated anode rod can lead to premature tank failure, which is far more expensive than routine maintenance.

If homeowners are unsure about performing this maintenance activity, it is highly advisable to seek professional inspections. A professional plumber can handle the task safely and efficiently, ensuring that the electric water heater continues to provide reliable hot water without unnecessary risks.

Regularly inspecting the anode rod, flushing the hot water tank, and scheduling preventive maintenance are critical tasks for ensuring your electric water heater maintains optimal performance. Maintenance tasks like these will keep your electric hot water system running efficiently, prevent heat loss, and prolong the lifespan of your hot water pipes and overall hot water system. For any concerns or when in doubt, seeking professional service is always the best approach.

Test the Thermostat and Heating Element

Testing the thermostat and heating element of your electric hot water heater is crucial to ensure efficient operation and consistent hot water supply. The thermostat controls the water temperature, and it is important to set it to a safe and efficient level—around 60°C—to prevent scalding and reduce energy usage. Testing the thermostat annually ensures the system heats water effectively without wasting energy.

A faulty heating element can cause inconsistent hot water supply, increased electricity bills, or even damage to the water heater tank. Homeowners can identify potential issues by listening to unusual noises or noticing inadequate hot water heating. If the heating element is not functioning properly, it’s best to seek professional servicing to test and replace any faulty components, ensuring the electric water heater operates at peak performance.

Heat pump water heaters and heat pump systems also rely on effective thermostats and heating element functions for optimal efficiency. Regular testing and preventive maintenance of these key components will ensure your hot water system performs effectively and safely.

Inspect and Clean the Surrounding Area

Maintaining a clean and safe environment around your hot water heater is essential for its proper operation. Dust, debris, and clutter near the unit can interfere with ventilation and create fire hazards. Keeping the area around the electric hot water system clean and well-ventilated is a key maintenance task that helps maintain safety and efficiency.

It’s also important to check for pests or insects that may have taken shelter near the hot water unit, as they can damage wiring or insulation, leading to potential electrical hazards. Heat pump water heaters and other hot water systems should have a clear surrounding area to function correctly.

Keeping the area around your electric water heater tidy not only ensures safety but also makes it easier to spot issues such as water leaks or damage during regular inspections. By regularly inspecting and cleaning the surrounding area, you can help prevent issues and maintain optimal system performance.

Schedule Professional Servicing Annually

While DIY maintenance is useful, professional servicing provides a deeper level of care. Certified plumbers can inspect internal components, test pressure valves, and identify hidden problems that homeowners might miss. Scheduling professional inspections annually ensures that your electric hot water system operates safely and efficiently.

Annual professional maintenance also helps maintain compliance with warranty requirements and Australian safety standards, giving you peace of mind. WP Plumbing is a reliable choice for professional electric hot water system servicing, offering expert care to keep your system running smoothly year after year.

Keep Your System in Top Shape with These Simple Practices

Adopting a proactive approach to maintaining your electric hot water system can save you money and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Regular inspections, flushing the tank, testing components, and scheduling annual servicing are key maintenance practices.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure reliable hot water year-round and extend the lifespan of your system, making daily tasks more comfortable and energy-efficient.

Reliable Hot Water, Year After Year

Maintaining your electric hot water system doesn’t have to be complicated. Regular care ensures efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability for your household’s hot water needs.

For expert assistance, trust the team at WP Plumbing. Our experienced plumbers provide comprehensive electric hot water services, from inspections to repairs and replacements.

Contact WP Plumbing today to schedule your annual maintenance and keep your system running smoothly for years to come.