Plumbing Techniques
Plumbing Techniques | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Newcomb
When frigid Adirondack mornings greet Newcomb, nothing feels better than instant, reliable hot water. At HEP’s Plumbing Techniques, we combine decades of know-how with today’s best practices to install, repair, and maintain your tank water heater so it delivers steady warmth day after day. From selecting the properly sized unit to ensuring flawless venting and insulation, our licensed technicians handle every detail with genuine, hometown care.
Customers love how we arrive on schedule, protect your floors with drop cloths, and leave the workspace spotless—often in a single visit. Whether you’re upgrading to a high-efficiency model, flushing sediment to extend equipment life, or calling after-hours for an emergency leak, we bring the tools, parts, and friendly attitude you expect from a neighbor. Trust HEP’s Plumbing Techniques to keep Newcomb’s showers steaming, dishes sparkling, and energy bills pleasantly low.
FAQs
What size tank water heater do I need for my Newcomb home?
The right size depends on how many people live in the house and how you use hot water. A two-person household usually manages with a 125–160 L tank, while a family of four often needs 250–315 L. If you run multiple showers, a dishwasher and a washing machine at the same time, go up a size. Our technicians can calculate demand using Australian Standard AS 4234 and your actual usage patterns to recommend the ideal capacity so you never run out of hot water but don’t pay to heat water you won’t use.
How long does a standard tank water heater last and when should I replace it?
Most vitreous-enamel steel storage heaters last 8–12 years in the Geelong/Newcomb area. Stainless-steel models can push past 15 years if maintained. Replace the unit if you see rust-coloured water, moisture around the base, or hear rumbling sounds caused by sediment build-up. Once the tank wall begins to corrode, repairs are not economical. Upgrading before a catastrophic leak avoids property damage and lets you take advantage of newer, more efficient models.
Are there any local regulations or permits required in Newcomb for replacing a water heater?
Yes. Under Victorian plumbing regulations, any water heater installation or replacement must be carried out by a licensed plumber with a VBA (Victorian Building Authority) compliance certificate. If the new unit uses gas, an additional gasfitting endorsement is required. Electric units over 50 L and all gas units also need a ‘Certificate of Electrical Safety’ from a licensed electrician if hard-wired. Our team handles all permits, compliance certificates and council notifications, so you remain fully covered and insured.
What routine maintenance should I perform to keep my tank water heater running efficiently?
1. Test the PTR (Pressure & Temperature Relief) valve every six months by gently lifting the lever—water should flow freely then stop when you release it. 2. Drain a bucket of water from the drain cock annually to flush sediment that insulates the element and reduces capacity. 3. Replace the sacrificial anode every 5–7 years (or 3–4 years if you have hard or bore water) to slow internal corrosion. 4. Check for leaks around fittings and the tank base monthly. If you’re uncomfortable performing these tasks, book our 25-point water-heater service and we’ll handle it for you.
Why is my hot water running out quickly and how can I fix it?
Common causes include: (a) a failed thermostat or element that can’t keep up with demand, (b) excessive sediment reducing the effective volume of the tank, (c) a worn dip-tube allowing cold water to mix prematurely, or (d) simultaneous high-flow fixtures oversizing demand. First, confirm the thermostat is set between 60 °C and 65 °C (legal minimum is 60 °C to prevent Legionella). Flush the tank to remove sediment; if performance doesn’t improve, the element or dip-tube may need replacement. We diagnose the exact cause and advise whether repair or replacement is more economical.
How can I improve the energy efficiency of my existing tank water heater?
• Insulate exposed hot-water pipes with 15 mm closed-cell foam. • Fit an insulating jacket around older tanks (never cover the top of gas units). • Install low-flow shower heads (9 L/min or less) and aerated taps. • Set the thermostat to 60 °C—every 5 °C drop below 70 °C saves about 5 % in heating costs while still meeting health regulations. • If you have off-peak electricity, ensure the heater is wired to that tariff. • Consider adding a tempering valve and raising the storage temperature to 65 °C, then mixing down at the outlet; this stores more usable hot water without extra energy use. When it’s time to replace the unit, ask us about high-efficiency gas, heat-pump or solar-boosted systems eligible for Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) rebates.