Hot water is something we all take for granted—until it stops working. Whether it’s a freezing cold shower or a water heater that’s leaking all over your garage, hot water system issues can disrupt your entire day. reword
At King Solar Man, we specialise in fast, reliable hot water repairs to all types of hot water systems – electric, gas, heat pump and solar hot water systems across Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands and Logan regions. Here are 10 of the most common problems we see, what might be causing them, and when it’s time to call in the professionals.
1. No Hot Water at All
No hot water can be caused by:
-
A tripped circuit breaker
-
A blown fuse
-
A faulty thermostat
-
A failed heating element
- A failed valve
-
A leaking tank
DIY Tip:
For electric, heat pump and solar hot water systems, check your circuit breaker is turned on; check the temperature of the hot water at the tank by lifting the relief valve.
For electric heat exchange hot water systems, check the tank is filled by lifting the relief valve;
For thermosiphon solar hot water systems, check your internal booster switch is turned on (if you have one. Note, not all systems have one);
For solar hot water split systems check the circulation pump is turned on at the power point next to your tank as well as the electrical isolator, also next to the tank is turned on;
For gas systems, make sure your pilot light is on.
Call a plumber/electrician if:
The circuit breaker has tripped out, or if the temperature of the water at the tank is cold or luke warm or for any other electrical issues, call an electrician;
The water at the tank is hot, the tank is leaking or for any other valve issues call a plumber.
However, a plumber who holds a restricted electrical license can resolve all of these issues in a single visit.
2. Water Too Hot or Too Cold
Inconsistent temperatures are often linked to:
-
Thermostat issues – either a faulty thermostat or incorrect thermostat setting
-
Faulty temperature valve
DIY Tip:
Check the temperature of the hot water at the tank by lifting the relief valve and call a professional. Adjustments to thermostats or tempering valves must only be done by a licensed professional.
Call a plumber/electrician if:
If you’re getting scalding water or fluctuating temperatures, best to call a plumber who holds a restricted electrical license to resolve all of these issues in a single visit.
3. Leaking Water Heater
A leaking tank is one of the most urgent issues. It may indicate:
-
A tank leaking internally with water typically coming out the bottom of the tank, the top anode port or the electrical compartment.
-
Corroded pipes
-
Faulty pressure relief valve or other valve.
DIY Tip:
Turn off the water and power supply.
Call a plumber immediately:
An internally leaking tank cannot be repaired and requires replacement. Delays could cause water damage or mould.
4. Rust-Coloured or Smelly Water
Brown water or a rotten egg smell? You may have:
-
Rust in the tank
-
A failing anode rod
-
Bacterial growth in the heater
Call a plumber— if the tank is rusted, replacement is recommended otherwise we can flush the system or replace key components such as the anode.
5. Banging or Popping Noises
This is usually caused by:
-
Overheating components
- Faulty valves
- Faulty circulation pump (if a solar hot water split system)
A plumber who holds a restricted electrical license can resolve all of these issues in a single visit.
6. Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
This happens with gas hot water systems due to:
-
Faulty thermocouple
-
Blocked pilot orifice
-
Gas supply issues
Leave it to a licensed technician—we handle gas safely and efficiently.
7. Low Hot Water Pressure
Possible causes:
-
Mineral build-up in pipes
-
Blocked valves or filters
Call a plumber: we can diagnose the exact cause and get your pressure back to normal.
8. Hot Water Runs Out Too Fast
This may mean:
-
The heater is undersized for your household
-
Element or thermostat malfunction
- Heat exchange tank not filled
- Solar not working
Call a plumber/electrician if:
Call a plumber to addressing sizing of your storage tank, and issues relating to the solar side of your system. For all other issues, contact an electrician.
However, a plumber who holds a restricted electrical license can resolve all of these issues in a single visit. We’ll assess your usage and recommend the best long-term fix.
9. High Energy Bills
Hot water systems can silently drain energy when:
-
They’re old or poorly insulated
-
Heating elements stay on constantly
- Solar not working (if a solar hot water system)
Call a plumber/electrician if:
Call a plumber to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model and reduce your bills, or to undertake repairs to your system. Call an electrician to address heating element issues.
However, a plumber who holds a restricted electrical license can resolve all of these issues in a single visit.
10. System Is Over 10 Years Old
Most electric systems have a lifespan of 8–12 years and solar hot water systems 12-15 years. If yours is approaching that mark, ongoing problems may cost more than a replacement.
Talk to us about a new system—we supply and install leading brands at competitive rates.
🛠 Need Hot Water Repairs Fast?
At King Solar Man, we provide timely service for hot water issues. Whether it’s a repair, replacement, or emergency call-out, our licensed plumbers will get your hot water back on—fast.
📞 Call 0416 075 682Today
📍 Servicing Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan| ✅ Licensed & Insured | ⏱ Fast Turnaround