Rust Accumulation
One of the top reasons home hot water cylinders require fixing is due to rust and corrosion build-up over years of operation. Small leaks or pinhole drips caused by rust deterioration are repairable if caught early. But extensive corroded spots and large leaks usually warrant a full replacement. Using an anode rod system in your cylinder can help prevent worsening rust problems. Anode rods attract corrosion instead of allowing it to attack your tank.
Sediment Build-Up
Another prevalent issue in Auckland water systems is sediment accumulation at the bottom section inside the cylinder. Chunks of calcium, lime and magnesium deposits mixing with sand particles from pipes gets trapped. This gradually reduces your available hot water capacity. Professional draining and flushing services can clear out collected sediment to restore cylinder efficiency. Upgrading to a large mesh strainer or other filtration system is recommended to prevent rapid sediment build-up.
Thermostat Malfunctions
Mechanical thermostats in hot water cylinders control your optimal temperature setting. But if your hot water seems unusually low or fluctuating irregularly, the thermostat may be broken. Replacing old cylindrical thermostats with new digital thermostats provides more precise temperature regulation. Digital models also show error codes that self-diagnose common operating problems.
Anode Depletion
Most cylinders have magnesium or aluminium anode rods protecting inner metal tank walls from corrosion damage. But over years of operation, anode materials erode to the point of ineffectiveness. At that stage, unchecked rusting can start creating pinhole leaks. Having your anode rod tested periodically and replacing depleted rods preserves your hot water tank integrity.
Electrical Shorts
Modern electronically controlled cylinders rely on external power to run elements, thermostats, timers and other features. Faulty internal wiring, bad heating elements or water incursion into circuits can all cause various electrical shorts. Attempting DIY repairs is dangerous. Electrical issues require professional cylinder troubleshooting or replacement.
Catastrophic Failures
In worst cases, cylinders experience sudden catastrophic disasters beyond repair. Pressurisation problems, severe leaks or critical component malfunctions call for emergency replacement. Warning signs include rumbling, odd noises, bursting pipes, water-saturated walls or no hot water output. Seek professional assessments before attempting fixes.
Final Words
When common cylinder issues occur, reputable North Shore plumbers, like Hot Water Solutions have solutions to diagnose problems and handle repairs or full unit swaps. Seeking regular maintenance also optimises performance and lifespan. With proper care, many homeowners enjoy 15-20 years of reliable hot water from quality cylinders before needing a replacement. Stay proactive and don’t tolerate frustrating lukewarm showers! Restore your hot water happiness by promptly addressing any emerging cylinder problems.
Use our contact us page to reach us and we will be more than happy to help out. Or give us a call on 0800 497658.
At Hot Water Solutions all we do is hot water.
