The common faults
- Pressure relief valve. It lets out a little water as the tank heats so the pressure stays safe. When it fails it drips constantly, or stops working, which is a safety risk. These valves need replacing every few years.
- Tempering valve. It mixes hot and cold water so bathroom taps deliver water at a safe temperature. A failed valve gives scalding or lukewarm water.
- Leaking pipework. Joints and old copper pipes near the tank or in walls can leak, especially where the water pressure is high.
- Thermostat or element. On electric systems, these can fail while the tank is fine. The electrical side is done by a licensed electrician.
An honest call
If the tank itself is leaking, a repair isn’t worth it, and we’ll say so before you spend anything. If the tank is sound, fixing a valve or a pipe gives the system more years.
Urgent hot water leaks
Turn off the power or gas to the system and close the cold water valve on the tank if it’s safe to reach. Then call. A hot water leak inside a wall or under the slab can do damage quickly.
