Common Issues with Storage Hot Water Heaters and When to Replace Them

Living in Melbourne's western suburbs like Bonnie Brook or Weir Views, a reliable hot water heater is essential for your daily comfort. But what happens when your unit starts acting up? In this post, we’ll explore the most common issues with storage hot water heaters and help you identify when it might be time for a replacement.

Common Issues with Storage Hot Water Heaters

1. Leaks
   Leaks are a frequent problem, especially in areas with hard water like Strathtulloh and Aintree. If you notice water pooling around your heater, it could be due to a faulty pressure relief valve, a crack in the tank, or internal corrosion. Left unchecked, leaks can lead to water damage and higher bills.

2. Strange Noises
   If you’re hearing rumbling, popping, or banging sounds, it might be sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank—a issue we’ve seen frequently in homes across Harkness and Cobblebank. This buildup reduces efficiency and can damage your unit over time.

3. Not Enough Hot Water
   If your showers turn cold too quickly or the water barely gets warm, your heater might be struggling. In suburbs like Deanside and Melton South, where larger families rely on consistent hot water, this could be due to a faulty thermostat, a broken dip tube, or excessive sediment reducing the tank’s capacity.

4. Rusty Water
   Discolored or rusty water from your hot water tap is a red flag, especially in older homes around Melton West and Kurunjang. It often means the tank’s interior is corroding, which can worsen over time and lead to leaks or complete failure.

5. High Energy Bills
   Noticed a spike in your energy costs? In areas like Tarneit and Delahey, where energy efficiency is a growing concern, an aging or inefficient hot water heater might be working harder to heat water, especially if sediment buildup is forcing it to use more power.

Signs Your Hot Water Heater Needs Replacing

Wondering if it’s time to say goodbye to your current unit? Here are the key indicators:

1. Age
   In suburbs like Exford and Plumpton, where many homes were built in the early 2000s, hot water heaters are reaching the end of their lifespan. Most units last 10-15 years, so if yours is approaching or past this mark, it’s more prone to breakdowns and less efficient than newer models.

2. Frequent Repairs
   We’ve helped homeowners in Brookfield and Melton save money by replacing units that required constant fixes. If you’re calling a plumber multiple times a year, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new heater.

3. Out of Warranty
   If your unit’s warranty has expired, repair costs can skyrocket. In growing communities like Aintree and Cobblebank, where new homes are being built, replacing an out-of-warranty unit with a modern, efficient model can save you money in the long run.

4. Energy Efficiency
   Modern hot water heaters are designed to be more energy-efficient. In environmentally conscious areas like Bacchus Marsh and Darley, replacing an old, power-hungry unit can lower your energy bills and reduce your environmental footprint.

Serving Your Local Area

At Fox Plumbing and Drainage, we’re proud to serve the diverse communities across Victoria’s west. From the bustling streets of Melton South to the quiet neighborhoods of Delahey, our team is dedicated to providing top-notch hot water heater services. We’ve tackled everything from minor repairs in Tarneit to full replacements in Bacchus Marsh, always with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re in the growing suburbs of Bonnie Brook, Weir Views, or Deanside, or the established areas of Strathtulloh, Aintree, and Harkness, we’ve got you covered.

Contact Fox Plumbing and Drainage Today

Don’t let hot water heater problems disrupt your life. Whether you’re in Kurunjang, Exford, or any of the surrounding suburbs, the team at Fox Plumbing and Drainage is here to help. Call us today to schedule an appointment and enjoy reliable hot water once again!