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Surely, you’ve heard the saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. This basically refers to not bothering something that is working on something that is working ‘just fine’. However, this philosophy doesn’t apply to mechanical and electrical appliances that can actually breakdown – like your hot water systems.

Hot water systems when left alone for too long with minor issues may need major repairs or even a replacement in the long run. Generally, it is wise to check on your electrical appliances on a monthly basis. It would only take you 5-10 minutes to inspect each appliance. For your hot water system, check the unit from top to bottom and look for any leakage, cracks, rust or other physical signs of concern.

Every 6 months, you need to make sure that your system’s pressure valve is still working well. This is designed to relief any excess pressure within the hot water system. Depending on the type of system you have, each check is slightly different so make sure you locate and understand the tank’s manual before proceeding with this task.

If you are not confident with this task, schedule in a routine maintenance with your plumber and while they are on-site they will be able to demonstrate this procedure to you.

If you are going to be away for a long period of time (over a week), make sure you turn off your hot water system. This way, you won’t need to come back from your holiday with a surprise from your energy bill! While you are away, the hot water system will continue to heat water although no one is home to enjoy the hot water. So make sure this is part of your checklist before you rush to the airport.

The traditional showerheads that are installed in most homes uses around 15-25 litres per minute. Whereas a water saving showerhead (WELS rated) uses between 6 to 9 litres per minute without restricting the water flow. This means a water efficient showerhead can save you more than 63 litres of water for a 7-minute shower.

Hot water tanks only need a temperature of 60° to maintain healthy hot water to limit the growth of microorganisms in your tank. During your next maintenance, ask your electrician/plumber to check the temperature is nothing higher than 60° and your wallet will thank you for reducing the hot water running costs.

If you have never scheduled a maintenance for your hot water tank and it is over 5 years old, chances are you may be looking at some major damage. Is there any rust around your water tank? That’s because the sacrificial anode – the metal rod built into the middle of the water tank with the purpose of drawing minerals to itself so it can rust instead of the tank. Replacing your sacrificial anode regularly (every 5 years) will make sure your tank’s life extend by another 5-10 years.