Hot water service and repair.

Hot water pressure relief valve.

The most common repair on a hot water tank is replacing the pressure relief valve. The TPR (temperature/pressure-relief) valve is a safety device designed to automatically release water if the tank’s pressure or temperature exceeds safety levels.

It’s a good idea to test the TPR valve every six months to ensure it’s working correctly. Just gently lift the lever on the valve, and water should rush out the overflow pipe. Testing it can also reduce the chances of it leaking from mineral or corrosion buildup. 

If your hot water tank is located inside, there is usually an overflow pipe somewhere outside your house. 

If no water or just a trickle flows out when you activate the valve lever, you need to get the valve replaced. If there is water constantly dripping from the relief pipe, then you need to replace the valve. 

It’s a good idea to have a licensed plumber replace the TPR valve every three to five years.

Signs of leaking water or rusting on the cylinder.

Most hot water tanks will have one-year parts and labour on components and five, ten or sometimes twelve years on the cylinder. Whilst some well maintained hot water systems may last twenty years; eventually, the tank will show signs of failing.

A leaking cylinder tank can cost you money in water and electricity, or gas. If the tank is located inside your house, it can damage flooring and the underfloor structure if it leaks. If you suspect the system is leaking or can see any rust, give us a call. Better to be safe than sorry. 

What is a sacrificial anode?

The sacrificial anode is designed to reduce rust and deterioration of your hot water tank.  The sacrificial anode is a rod that hangs down inside the water tank and attracts mineral and impurities in the water. It’s usually made from aluminium/magnesium and coated in zinc. 

It slowly rusts and degrades to increase the life of the rest of the tank. How quick it degrades depends on where you live and the quality of the local water. It’s essential to replace the anode when required. Usually, every five years or as per manufacturers recommendation. 

Replacing the sacrificial anode can extend the life of your water tank by five to ten years. 

Consider your options when replacing your hot water system.

Replacing an electric or gas hot water tank is generally a quick and easy fix. However, they’re not very efficient or environmentally friendly. Whilst cheaper upfront, they’re more expensive in the long run than more modern systems. Star Plumbing & Gas can give you the right advice on the best system to suit your requirements and budget. 

Some of the options are: 

• Electric continuous flow hot water.
• Solar tube collector and storage tank.
• Instant gas hot water systems.  
• Hi-Efficiency Electric Heat pumps.

Get the right advice before replacing your hot water system.