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Split Hot Water Systems

A hot water system heats and supplies the shower, bath and taps in an apartment, house or office with heated water. Also known as a heater or cylinder, it is easy to forget how much use a hot water system gets, until of course it is out of action.

Many people are not aware, but the large majority of hot water systems have a manufacturers? life expectancy of only 6 - 10 years. If you are not sure how old your heater is, the manufacture date can be found in the specifications printed on the side on the cylinder. It is worth checking your hot water system for signs of wear and deterioration if it is over 6 years old, and it is worth being aware that cylinders over 6 years old are prone to split.

As it is in the early hours of the morning when fewest people are using water that water pressure is at its highest, this is when a hot water cylinder is most likely to split. This often means that owners are forced to pay a plumber emergency rates to have the hot water cylinder disconnected, and then to return on the next business day to replace it. Water damage to carpets and furniture is also common.

An easy and useful tip to minimise damage caused in the event that your cylinder does split is to install a tray beneath it to catch escaping water.

You can also check for rust on the inside of your cylinder by running hot water in a bath tub or sink. If the water appears slightly orange or rusty against the white background it would indicate that the cylinder is deteriorating on the inside and needs replacing. If in doubt it is worth calling a plumbing service to check the heater - the cost will be much less than the cost and inconvenience if the cylinder does burst.

If you need to install a new hot water system, you should make sure that the correct pressure limiting valve is installed by your plumber. Excessive pressure is a leading cause of cylinders splitting prematurely so by ensuring that the correct pressure limiting value is installed you will maximise the life of your heater, extending life by up to 50%. The warranty on your heater may also be void if the correct pressure limiting valve is not installed. The installation instructions that accompany your new hot water system will provide more information on this.

Jonathan Hamber is a freelance writer for PAV Plumbing Sydney. Visit the PAV Plumbing website for more information on http://www.pavplumbing.com.au/hot-water-system.html plumbing as well as many other plumbing topics. http://www.pavplumbing.com.au

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