Hot water systems are ubiquitous appliances in a household, but most of us don’t give them a second thought until they stop working or an ice-cold shower welcomes us in the bathroom. That’s when panic sets in, and the household comes to a stop. Our trusty hot water system is the most important appliance in the house, and in our blog, we detail some hot water tips that can help you avoid many hot water disasters.

We’ve seen it all at ABA Plumbing & Gas—from minor leaks to full-blown system failures. We must also mention that the same mistakes keep popping up more often than not. So, to save you from a chilly surprise (or an expensive repair bill), our hot water plumbers have compiled the three biggest mistakes people make with their hot water systems and how to avoid them.

1. Ignoring Regular Maintenance

Like any other appliance or plumbing fixture in your house, your hot water system needs a little TLC to keep running smoothly and provide your family with uninterrupted, comfortable hot water. It’s one appliance that works hard behind the scenes every single day but remains forgotten until something goes wrong and suddenly, there is no hot water.
The Problem: Several issues can occur over time due to wear and tear. These include sediment built up in the tank, worn-out parts, and other minor issues that could easily turn into costly breakdowns. Regular maintenance keeps your system in good shape, and without it, there are very high chances of efficiency drop and rise in your energy bills.

The Solution: Our Adelaide hot water plumber highly recommends scheduling a professional check-up at least once a year. A licensed plumber can carry out basic maintenance tasks such as flushing out sediment, inspecting the anode rod (which prevents rust), and just making sure that everything is working as it should. A little maintenance now can extend the life of your system and save you thousands in the long run.

2. Setting the Temperature Too High (or Too Low)

Most people don’t think twice about their hot water temperature—until they get scalded or notice their showers are lukewarm. Setting your water too hot or too cold isn’t just inconvenient; it can be dangerous or costly.

The Problem: Water that’s too hot (above 60°C) increases the risk of burns and if it’s too cold (below 50°C), harmful bacteria can thrive in the hot water system.
The Solution: The ideal setting for your storage hot water system is 60°C (to kill bacteria), but a tempering valve should ensure water comes out of your taps at a safe 50°C. If you have an instant (continuous flow) system, adjust it to a comfortable 45-50°C for showers to prevent burns and unnecessary energy use. If you’re unsure, a licensed hot water plumber can adjust it for you.

3. Waiting Too Long to Replace an Old System

Hot water systems are robust machines and last a very long time but they don’t last forever. Many homeowners make the mistake of pushing them past their limits until a catastrophic failure occurs. The problem? By the time you notice major issues, it’s usually too late for a quick fix.
The Problem: An aging system can become inefficient, drive up energy costs, and eventually fail—sometimes resulting in leaks or a complete loss of hot water. If your system is 10+ years old, it could be costing you more than you realise.
The Solution: If your system is making strange noises, taking longer to heat, or your energy bills are creeping up, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern systems are far more energy-efficient—switching to a heat pump or a gas-boosted solar system could cut your bills dramatically. A professional plumber can assess your system and recommend the best option for your home.

Hot Water Services Adelaide Residents Trust

Get in touch with ABA Plumbing & Gas today for any hot water expert advice or a hot water system repair anywhere in Adelaide. Looking for a reliable and affordable hot water system replacement? We are here to help! If you need a quick repair, a service check, replacement of an old system or a brand-new installation, we can do it all. For professional plumbing services, call us today and keep your hot water running smoothly!