There are a few things you should do periodically to care for your hot water heater and ensure it is running efficiently.
MINOR SIX MONTH MAINTENANCE
It is recommended minor maintenance be performed every six months by the dwelling occupant including:
- Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve. It is very important you raise and lower the lever gently. Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as water discharged from the drain line will be hot. Stand clear of the drain line’s point of discharge when operating the valve’s lever.
- Operate the easing lever on the expansion control valve (if fitted). It is very important you raise and lower the lever gently.
- Check the performance of the temperature limiting valve (if fitted)
- Measure the water temperature from the hot tap nearest to the water heater with a thermometer. If the water temperature exceeds 50°C, contact a Cheapa Hot Water service technician on 0410 693 532 for advice.
- Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
Did you know your hot water system should be serviced every 5 years?
It is recommended a major five year service be conducted on the water heater.
Warning: Servicing of a water heater must only be carried out by qualified service technician. Contact Cheapa Hot Water on 0410 693 532 to book a service call.
The major service includes the following actions:
- Replace the temperature limiting valve (if required)
- Replace the temperature pressure relief valve.
- Inspect and flush the expansion control valve (if fitted). If required, replace the valve.
- Inspect and if required, replace the anode.
- If the anode is not replaced, it should be replaced within three years of this service (refer to “Anode Inspection and Replacement” on page 15).
- Check the electric heating unit for excessive calcium build up or corrosion and replace if necessary.
- Visually check the unit for any potential problems.
- Inspect all connections.
- Check the drain line from the safe tray (if one is installed) is not blocked.
The water heater may need to be drained during this service. After the completion of the service, the water heater will take some time to reheat the water. Depending upon the power supply connection, hot water may not be available until the next day.
Temperature pressure relief valve
This valve is usually near the top of the water heater and is essential for its safe operation. It is possible for the valve to release a little water through the drain line during each heating period. This occurs as the water is heated and expands by approximately 1/50 of its volume.
Continuous leakage of water from the valve and its drain line may indicate a problem with the water heater.
Warning: Never block the outlet of this valve or its drain line for any reason.
Operate the easing lever on the temperature pressure relief valve once every six months. It is very important you raise and lower the lever gently.
DANGER: Failure to do this may result in the water heater cylinder failing, or under certain circumstances, exploding.
Warning: Exercise care to avoid any splashing of water, as water discharged from the drain line will be hot. Stand clear of the drain line’s point of discharge when operating the valve’s lever.
If water does not flow freely from the drain line when the lever is lifted, then the water heater must be checked. Phone Rheem Service or their nearest Accredited Service Agent to arrange for an inspection.
The temperature pressure relief valve should be replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years, or more frequently in areas where there is a high incidence of water deposits.
Still having hot water system problems?
If these steps don’t provide any solutions, we suggest you contact our service department on 0410 693 532 for advice. Our hot water service centre is open 7 days a week from 7am – 6pm.
Hot water is our business – it’s not a sideline. Each year we install over 4,000 hot water systems in Sydney and Central Coast homes and businesses. As one of Sydney’s largest hot water system suppliers, our enormous buying powers and ability to buy direct from the manufacturer means we can pass attractive savings on to our customers. Our fully qualified, licensed hot water heater installers have over 20 years experience each so don’t hesitate to contact us direct for advice and assistance.