Understanding Your Hot Water System Type
Different hot water systems can be found in Woollahra homes, such as:
Gas Systems
Gas water heaters rely on natural gas or LPG, making it crucial to know how to cut off the gas supply. They have a storage tank and a gas burner or pilot light that keeps the water hot. To deactivate the gas water heater, switch off the gas supply valve and turn the pilot light control to 'off’.
Electric Systems
Electric water heaters utilise heating elements powered by electricity to heat water. Similar to gas systems, It’s key to know how to shut off electric heaters, which depend on a stable power supply for their insulated tanks. Deactivate your electric water heater by switching off the power at the breaker box and setting the thermostat or control to 'off’.
Solar Systems
Solar water systems, an eco-friendly solution, have roof-mounted solar panels that collect heat from sunlight. You’ll need to understand how to shut off the heater safely by using the method for that type.
Solar hot water systems transfer energy via pipes to either a storage cylinder or directly supply your water heating needs. Solar units typically have a gas or electric booster for hot water when sunlight is inadequate.
Tankless Systems
Tankless, or on-demand, water heaters instantly warm water as it passes through the device, eliminating the need for a storage tank. For gas tankless heaters, turn the system off by switching the gas shut off valve to 'off.' For electric tankless heaters, deactivate them at the breaker box. Remember, no pilot light on tankless.
Understanding the method to turn off your water is crucial, varying with tank, tankless, solar, gas, or electric systems. Knowing how to shut off the water supply is key to locating the appropriate controls for your hot water system. If unsure about how to turn off water your system, seek advice from our Woollahra plumbing experts.
Locating Valves and Switches to Shut Off System
To properly understand how to turn your water heater off, it’s imperative to locate water supply valves or switches. Here’s how to turn off your system with different system types:
Find the main valve to shut off the gas supply to your home, usually on the gas line coming into the home or near the water heater. Rotating this valve 90 degrees may also cut off the mains water supply for certain systems. Also locate the pilot light or burner control knob on the appliance and turn it to "off."
Know how to turn off your breaker controlling the electric water heater at the main circuit breaker panel or fuse box to turn off hot water. Shut off the breaker to know how turn off and cut power. Also find the thermostat or power switch on the unit itself and turn it to "off."
For gas tankless systems, locate the individual gas shutoff valve near top water heater segment and turn it off. For electric tankless, find out how to shut the dedicated breaker off and switch it to "off." There’s no pilot light to consider in these systems.
For all systems, including gas hot water, turn off main supply at the valve is usually done near the water meter. Turning this valve effectively makes the turn off main water entering your house. By identifying all control valves and switches, you can fully shut off your hot water system.
Safely Shutting Off Gas or Electric Supply
When shutting off your hot water heater, be it gas or electric, ensure safety measures are up; water heater maintenance is no trivial matter. Make sure to wear protective gloves and goggles before beginning.
Start by finding and turning the main gas shutoff valve 90 degrees to stop the gas flow.
Check around the appliance using a soapy water solution to test for a gas leak.
Locate the dedicated circuit breaker for the electric water heater at the main panel. Switch this breaker off to sever the electrical supply, hence deactivating the heater when necessary. Next, locate your heater’s power switch or thermostat and set it to "off." With power safely cut, you can shut off an electric system completely.
For guidance on the correct shutdown procedure for your water heater, reach out to our professional Woollahra plumbers. We’re always happy to help ensure your safety.
Draining the Tank
Draining your hot water system’s tank in Woollahra is a common requirement for maintenance or repairs. It’s also a good idea to allow water to be shut off before extended absences from your home. Safety should come first, so allow time for any turn hot water in the tank to turn into cold water before beginning the draining process.
How to Drain a Hot Water Tank
Ensure you follow these steps precisely to guarantee safe drainage of your storage tank:
- Locate the tank’s drain valve, usually at the bottom near the supply line. Place a bucket underneath and attach a garden hose leading outdoors.
- Turn the drain valve off by rotating it counterclockwise slowly to turn valve off. Water will flow out by force of gravity. Opening it too quickly can cause a sudden stop in water flow and damage the valve.
- Once most of the water has emptied into the bucket and garden hose, you can open the valve fully to drain off any remaining water and sediment.
- When empty, turn the valve clockwise to close it.
- Disconnect and store the garden hose for later use.
The typical lifespan of a well-maintained gas hot water heater can extend up to 8-12 years. But with proper care like annual draining, you may get up to 15 years of reliable service.
For professional draining services or any plumbing needs, contact our team at Woollahra Plumbing on 1300 349 338.
Identifying When to Turn Off System
There are several scenarios when you should consider turning off your Woollahra home’s hot water system:
- Vacationing - Turn off your hot water system to prevent leaks and save energy while you’re away.
- Maintenance - Annually drain, flush, and service the water heater, ensuring it’s off and water is cooled. Always shut off the system first for safety.
- Making repairs - If you notice any issues like a water leak, strange noises or error codes, Then turn off the unit until repairs are complete.
- Emergencies - Urgently cut off the water supply in situations like significant leaks to protect your home from water damage and electrical risks.
- Selling the home - Real estate agents advise turning off the hot water when a home is being shown to prospective buyers.
It’s also wise to turn off hot water systems in vacation homes during months when no one is staying there. And if you have rarely used guest bathrooms, consider an isolation valve to selectively turn off the hot water feed to those areas.
At the first sign of trouble, trust the licenced professionals at Woollahra Plumbing to safely assess and service your hot water system. Call us or email to schedule maintenance or repairs.
Performing Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for any hot water system to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity. As licenced plumbers servicing Woollahra, we recommend the following maintenance tasks:
- Drain sediment annually to eliminate mineral deposits and sediment from the tank, safeguarding your home’s water quality. let the water cool prior to attaching a hose for drainage.
- Inspect fittings & pipes - Check for corrosion, cracks or leaks in water lines, valves, joints and fittings. Address any detected issues immediately.
- Check pressure relief valve - Test that the valve opens properly to release excess water pressure in the tank. Replace if faulty.
- Clean tanks & filters - Remove silt and scale from inside tanks. Clean or replace old filters.
- Test functionality - Regularly check elements, thermostats, pilot lights, and electronics, making adjustments or replacements when necessary.
Insulating hot water pipes and tanks is also advisable to enhance efficiency and prevent heat-related damage. Arrange professional maintenance every 3-5 years, or reach out to us with any issues. Proper upkeep can prolong your system’s life beyond 15 years.
For reliable hot water system maintenance in Woollahra, call Woollahra Plumbing on 1300 349 338 or email to book an appointment. Our fully licenced technicians service all makes and models.
