With more people taking pride in their homes, and their hot water systems, regular servicing is becoming less of a “nice to have” and more of a smart move. With more options on the market and ongoing innovation, especially in solar and continuous flow systems, homeowners are increasingly focused on getting the maximum lifespan and value from their hot water systems. Plus, no one wants to be caught off guard by a sudden cold shower on a chilly winter’s morning!
In this article, we will demonstrate what exactly is involved in a hot water system service and why regular maintenance is a wise move to keep your household functioning correctly.
Professional maintenance not only improves your system’s efficiency and keeps it running safely and at optimal performance, but it also helps spot small issues before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems. Plus, routine servicing extends the overall lifespan of hot water units in both residential and commercial properties. Perhaps, most importantly, regular servicing provides you with peace of mind that you won’t be met with any nasty cold water surprises on a winter’s morning.
A good rule of thumb is to service your hot water system at least every two years. However, annual servicing is ideal, especially if you rely heavily on it or use a solar hot water system or gas hot water system. Solar systems may need more attention to keep panels clean and working efficiently. Conversely, electric hot water systems tend to require less maintenance.
A heat pump water heater should ideally be serviced once every 1 to 2 years to help keep the system efficient. It also ensures the fan and compressor of the heat pump system are working properly and prevents issues like coil blockages or sensor faults.
It is the same for continuous flow hot water systems. They should be serviced at least every 1 to 2 years. Regular servicing ensures components like the heat exchanger, burner, and filters remain clean and efficient, and helps prevent scale build-up—especially in areas with hard water.
If you’re unsure, manufacturers may have specific timelines, so always check your manual if you still have it. Otherwise, you should be able to check online using the brand and model number for how often you should have your hot water system serviced.
However, if you’re already noticing issues like inconsistent water temperature, unusual noises, or a rise in your energy bills, it’s time to call in a licensed technician to ensure a reliable hot water system again.
During a professional service, a quality technician should carry out the following to ensure an efficient hot water system:
Don’t be afraid to ask your technician if they checked any or all of the above.
On the subject of asking questions, be sure to clarify exactly what your hot water service covers. While standard servicing should include the above, there are a few extras that often come at an additional cost:
It’s okay to ask your plumber upfront for transparency. It can also help you plan ahead if your system is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Here are some questions you should definitely consider asking before your plumber packs up the toolkit. These help you stay informed and get the most out of your service:
A professional technician will be more than happy to walk you through the answers.
Has it been a while since you’ve had your hot water system serviced? It pays to have a qualified professional take a look. At Same Day Hot Water Service, our licensed technicians handle everything from minor maintenance to urgent repairs and full replacement.
Book a repair or service today and enjoy peace of mind with trusted, professional support.
A standard hot water service includes inspecting the storage tank and pipework, checking valves, testing the thermostat, energy efficiency, and looking for signs of wear or leaks. It may also involve flushing out sediment and replacing the anode rod, if needed. The goal is to keep your system running efficiently and safely.
As a rule of thumb, your hot water tank should be serviced at least every two years — ideally annually for continuous flow systems. Some manufacturers recommend more frequent checks depending on the system type and water quality in your area. Solar water heaters may require more frequent checks to keep the solar panels and insulated storage tank clean for an energy efficient system.
The cost can vary depending on your system type and whether any parts need replacing, but a typical service ranges from $150 to $300 for storage tank systems. It’s a small price to pay to avoid expensive emergency repairs and extend your unit’s lifespan.