Hot Water Tank Replacement, Repair, And Installation

I remember the days as clearly as if it happened yesterday, we were 4 people living in a one and a half bedroom flat, the hot water tank filled half the bathroom as it was previously in a wardrobe that got renovated ‘somewhat’ to provide some room in the bedroom, Lord helps those who had to live there before the revamp.

We would wait all day for the tank to not only fill up but heat the water as well so we could all take our 5-minute turn at a wash down before it all finished, only to repeat the process for the following day. This is how my brother and I grew up, it was the norm for us, and a shock for those of our friends who stayed the night on a mattress on the floor.

My children, who seem to think that hot water comes down from the heavens at the press of a switch and with no invoice, have no concept of how it works, but I fear not, for they too will have their own homes and water tanks to take care of. Their time will come.

The issue came when there was a heavy storm and it knocked out all electrics meaning the tank could not heat up for the day, and thus an innovative plan of a boiled kettle and a bowl in the bathroom sink became the next option. Many a night we had to wash with a simple face cloth and a hope it all got sorted for tomorrow.

This too was our means for laundry if it was a particularly tight month financially, we would scrub with brushes and against boards to get the garments as close to clean as possible, some laugh, but when it’s your only choice, you do it to the best of your ability. See some old fashioned images in this link and take a trip down memory lane.

I’m thankful I came out stronger from what may seem like a tough situation, and it was, but I have always been a glass-half-full type of person.

The sound you don’t want to hear.

Trust me, I know all about the creaking and groaning of a water tank packing its bags headed for vacation, which paired with the sigh and heavy shoulders of my single-parent mother, and I knew we were headed for a rough month.

Not ever wanting to have to relive my childhood if I could help it, I regularly have our water geyser serviced and maintained. But as diligent as I may be, or how on schedule the checkups are, like with all products age is a factor that cannot be prevented, and thus the inevitable day dawns on us.

Frank, our repair guy for the past 10 years and on all appliances we own, gave us ‘the look.’ We knew it when we saw his face, he didn’t want to tell us, but it had to be done, we needed a new water heater. I won’t say I was too surprised, the old boy had done us well with Frank’s help, so an investment that would last another 5 years at least was something I could handle.

3 Signs you need a new water heater.

1. Noise. The minute I hear the grumbling I knew it was only a matter of time, I just didn’t realize that time would come sooner rather than later. Nevertheless, the sounds were an early indication, and we could make a clean installation of a new unit without much hassle.
2. Rusty water. This sounds as horrible as it looks, tainted coloured water running from the tap onto your body is the last image you want springing to mind. The earliest indication of ‘other than crystal clear water’ and I highly recommend calling in a service engineer to see what the issue could be. If you are hesitant about what to do or it’s your first time dealing with these things, check out this blog and see what others had to say about water heaters and replacements, you are not alone in this, take your time and make better choices.
3. Limited hot water. This is a red flag that shouldn’t be ignored, and certainly not a situation that will rectify itself. If you’re suddenly showering in cold water, call in a professional.

RELATED: SIX REASONS A HOT WATER CYLINDER CAN HELP GET YOU INTO HOT WATER

Who and how to choose.

Going on recommendations and referrals from friends is always the best option when it comes to using a company you can rely on, there are plenty of businesses and brands offering you the world, the best move is to take a minute and do your research. A bit of time doing homework will save you not only financially but from a big headache later on.

You want a company that will provide quality service, have years of experience under their belt so you know they will have seen and dealt with it all, and understand customer service to provide you with the level of workmanship you deserve.

If this is something that sounds like it is for you, then do some research online and check out for advice and guidance on what may best be suited for your set-up and situation. Talking to professionals in the industry will give you an idea of what’s available and the various models or options on the market.

No matter the route you opt for, make a few notes of your budget, your needs of the household, and weigh them all up before swiping your card. The most expensive is not always the best option, a professional serviceman will be able to advise which is the most cost-effective.