5 Star Service 
It’s a frustrating moment many homeowners face: you turn on the tap expecting a hot shower, but all you get is cold water. Besides the initial shock, the next question is often, “Who do I call? A plumber or an electrician?”
At Oceanside Services, we understand that diagnosing a hot water system issue can be tricky. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you identify the root of the problem and determine which expert you need to call.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Hot Water Troubleshooting
Before you pick up the phone, follow these simple steps to troubleshoot your hot water system:
Step 1: Is Water Flowing from the Tap?
The first and most basic check is to see if any water, hot or cold, is coming out of your taps.
- No water at all? This indicates a plumbing issue. A plumber can diagnose the problem, which could be anything from a simple blockage to a more serious pipe issue.
- Water is flowing, but it’s cold? If you have cold water, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Have You Run Out of Hot Water?
It might sound simple, but it’s a common reason for a lack of hot water. Consider your recent hot water usage. Have you had a lot of guests, done multiple loads of laundry, or run the dishwasher frequently? If so, you may have simply depleted your hot water tank.
If your hot water system is on an “Off Peak” tariff, it only heats water during specific times of the day to save on energy costs. If you’ve used up all the stored hot water, you may need to wait for the next heating cycle. You can check with your energy provider to confirm your tariff.
If it has been more than 24 hours and your water is still cold, it’s time to move on to the next step.
Step 3: The Relief Valve Test
The pressure relief valve is a safety feature on your hot water tank. It’s usually located near the top of the tank and has a small lever. This test can help you determine if the issue is with the plumbing or the electrical components of your system.
- Locate the relief valve: It’s the only valve that is connected directly to the tank, towards the top.
- Carefully lift the lever: This will release some water from the valve.
- Check the water temperature: Feel the pipe connected to the valve to see if the water is hot or cold.
Please be extremely careful during this step to avoid burns.
- Is the water cold? This suggests an electrical problem. The heating element in your hot water system may not be working, and you’ll need to call an electrician.
- Is the water warm or hot? This points to a plumbing issue. There might be a problem with the tempering valve or another part of the plumbing that is preventing the hot water from reaching your taps.
What if the Relief Valve is Leaking?
A constantly running or dripping relief valve is another common hot water system problem. It’s normal for the valve to drip a small amount (up to 500ml per day) as the water in the tank heats and expands. However, if you notice a significant and continuous leak, it’s a sign that you need to call a plumber. A leaking valve can waste a lot of water and may indicate a more serious problem with your hot water system.
Still Unsure? Call the Experts at Oceanside Services
We hope this guide helps you get to the bottom of your hot water issues. If you’re still not sure what the problem is, or if you need a qualified plumber or electrician, don’t hesitate to contact the friendly team at Oceanside Services. We’re available 24/7 to help with all your plumbing and electrical needs on the Gold Coast and surrounding areas.
Call us today on 07 5391 3580 or visit our Contact Us page to book a service.