Hot water problems can disrupt your daily routine and cause stress. Knowing how to quickly identify and respond to common hot water emergencies can save you time, money and prevent further damage.
Here’s a straightforward guide to six frequent hot water system issues, along with clear steps to take.
1. Leaking hot water tank
A leaking hot water tank is often caused by corrosion, a faulty valve or excess pressure in the system. If you notice water pooling around your tank:
- Turn off the power to your hot water system immediately. For electric units, switch off the circuit breaker. For gas models, turn off the gas supply.
- Shut off the water supply to stop more water escaping.
- Use towels or buckets to contain the leak and protect your flooring.
- Contact a licensed plumber as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the issue safely.
2. No hot water
If your taps are running cold, the cause and fix will depend on your system type:
Electric hot water systems:
- Check your circuit breaker and reset if it’s tripped.
- Inspect the thermostat for faults.
- If you can’t resolve the issue, call a qualified technician.
Gas hot water systems:
- Make sure the gas supply is on.
- Check if the pilot light is lit and relight it according to manufacturer instructions if needed.
- Persistent problems require professional servicing.
3. No water flow from hot taps
When your hot water taps produce little or no water, blockages or faulty valves are often the cause.
- Try cleaning tap aerators to clear blockages.
- Check whether the problem affects all hot water taps or just one.
- If the issue remains, contact a plumber to inspect valves and piping.
4. Water flowing from the overflow valve
Continuous water dripping or flowing from the temperature and pressure (T&P) valve signals excessive system pressure or valve malfunction.
- Immediately turn off the power and water supply.
- Carefully lift the T&P valve lever to release excess pressure.
- If water keeps flowing, contact a plumber promptly to prevent damage or safety risks.
5. Broken solar collector
For homes with solar hot water, a broken or damaged solar collector can reduce or stop hot water production.
- Visually inspect panels for damage or debris.
- Ensure the booster heater is functioning properly.
- Engage a licensed solar technician to assess and repair the system.
6. Strange noises from the hot water tank
Noises like banging, popping or hissing may indicate sediment build-up, pressure issues or faulty valves.
- Turn off power and water to prevent damage.
- Draining the tank may help remove sediment.
- If noises persist, arrange a professional inspection to avoid costly repairs.
Rips for hot water emergencies
- Always prioritise safety. Turn off power, water and gas supplies if you suspect faults.
- Avoid DIY fixes beyond basic checks and resets, licensed plumbers and technicians have the tools and training to resolve issues safely.
- Schedule regular maintenance to catch potential problems early and prolong your system’s lifespan.
