Should I Repair or Replace my Hot Water System?

This doesn't mean you have to replace it immediately. However, if a significant repair is required, the cost of that repair needs to be considered alongside the age and overall condition of the system.

You're Needing Repairs More Often

One repair doesn't necessarily mean your system is on its last legs.

But if you're calling a plumber repeatedly for different problems, those repair costs can start to add up.

At that point, it may be worth comparing the cost of ongoing repairs with the cost of installing a new system.

Your Hot Water Isn't Lasting as Long

Are you finding that you run out of hot water much sooner than you used to?

This can sometimes indicate a problem with the system or its components, but it can also be a sign that the system is no longer meeting the demands of your household.

If your household has grown or your hot water usage has changed, replacement can also be an opportunity to look at whether you need a different size or type of system.

You're Noticing Leaks

Water around the hot water system should never simply be ignored.

A leak can have a number of possible causes, including a valve or connection, but a leaking tank can be a sign that the cylinder itself has deteriorated.

If the tank is older and has started leaking, replacement is often something that needs to be considered rather than simply repairing the symptom.

The Water Temperature Is Becoming Inconsistent

If your hot water is fluctuating between hot and cold, or you're no longer getting the temperature you normally would, there could be a problem with one of the system's components.

Depending on the cause, this may be repairable.

However, if temperature problems are occurring alongside other signs of an ageing system, it may be time to consider replacement.

Is the Repair Cost Worth It?

One of the biggest questions is whether spending money on the repair makes sense.

There's no single dollar amount at which every hot water system should automatically be replaced. The decision depends on the system's age, condition, type and the nature of the fault.

A $500 repair on a relatively new system may be a straightforward decision.

The same repair on an older system that has already required several repairs may lead you to consider whether putting that money towards a replacement would be a better long-term option.

That's why it's important to look at the overall condition of the system, rather than simply the cost of the immediate repair.

What About Energy Efficiency?

If your existing hot water system is older, replacement can also provide an opportunity to consider a more efficient system.

The best option will depend on your home, available space, household hot water usage and the energy sources available to you.

If you're considering a different type of system, the information on our website about the various types of hot water systems will be useful when comparing your options:

• Continuous Flow Gas Hot Water Systems
• Solar Hot Water Systems
• Gas or Electric Storage Hot Water Systems
• Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

Repair or Replace? A Simple Way to Think About It

If you're trying to decide what to do, consider these questions:

How old is the system?
A newer system with an isolated fault is often a different proposition from an older system nearing the end of its expected lifespan.

What has gone wrong?
Some faults can be repaired relatively easily, while others may indicate more significant deterioration.

Has it needed repairs before?
One repair is very different from a system that seems to be breaking down regularly.

Is the system leaking?
A leak from the tank itself can be a significant sign that replacement needs to be considered.

Is it still meeting your household's needs?
If you're constantly running out of hot water, a replacement may be an opportunity to install a system better suited to your household.

What will the repair cost?
Consider the repair cost alongside the age and condition of the system, rather than looking at the repair price in isolation.

Don't Wait Until Your Hot Water System Fails Completely

If your hot water system is getting older and showing signs of deterioration, you don't necessarily need to wait for a complete breakdown before considering your options.

Planning ahead can give you more time to compare different replacement options and choose a system that suits your household, rather than having to make a decision in the middle of an emergency.

It can also help reduce the risk of being left without hot water when the system eventually fails.

If you're already experiencing problems, our hot water repairs and replacement services in Geelong, Torquay, Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads cover a wide range of hot water systems and brands.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Hot Water System?

There isn't one answer that applies to every household.

A relatively new system with a straightforward fault may be worth repairing, while an older system with repeated problems, leaks or increasing repair costs may be better replaced.

The best approach is to have the system assessed and consider the age, condition, fault, repair cost and expected remaining lifespan before making a decision.

At Tomlinson Plumbing, we can help you understand what's happening with your hot water system and discuss whether repair or replacement is likely to be the more practical option.

We provide hot water repairs, replacement and installation throughout Geelong, Torquay, Jan Juc, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads, Armstrong Creek, Leopold, Clifton Springs, Drysdale and surrounding areas.