Your geyser works hard every day, so it is easy to forget about it until something goes wrong. Catching the warning signs early can save you a flooded ceiling, a high electricity bill and a cold shower.
Warning signs to look out for
- Water dripping from the overflow pipe for long periods, not just the occasional drip while it heats.
- Rusty or discoloured hot water, which can point to corrosion inside the tank.
- Banging, popping or rumbling sounds as it heats, often caused by sediment building up at the bottom.
- Not enough hot water, or water taking much longer than usual to heat.
- The geyser tripping the electricity, which usually means a faulty element or thermostat.
- Damp patches or stains on the ceiling below where the geyser sits.
Repair or replace?
Many problems can be fixed by replacing a part. Thermostats, elements, pressure valves and vacuum breakers can all be swapped out without replacing the whole geyser.
If the tank itself is leaking, a replacement is usually the only real fix. Age matters too: if your geyser is well over a decade old and starting to give trouble, it is worth comparing the cost of repairs with the cost of a new unit.
What to do if your geyser bursts
- Switch off the geyser at the distribution board.
- Turn off the water at the geyser isolation valve or the main supply.
- Open a hot water tap to release pressure in the system.
- Take photos of the damage for your insurer.
- Call a qualified plumber.
If you plan to claim for a burst geyser, check with your insurer first. Most will need a certificate of compliance for the new installation.
Small things that help
- A geyser blanket and insulated pipes reduce heat loss.
- A timer means you only heat water when you need it.
- A drip tray with a drain helps protect your ceiling if something does go wrong.
Not sure whether to repair or replace your geyser? Talk to us about your geyser and tell us what has changed. If water is actively leaking, our guide to dealing with a serious plumbing leak explains what to share when arranging help.
