Hot Water System Parts

What is it: The hot water outlet is the pipe where heated water exits the tank and travels to your taps and appliances.

Commonly found: This part is typically found at the top of the hot water tank.

Common issues: Corrosion and loose connections can cause leakages.

Average lifespan: 10-20yrs.

What is it: This is an electrical switch that is able to completely shut off the power to the hot water system, which is essential for safety during emergencies or maintenance.

Commonly found: You will typically find this isolation switch on the wall near the hot water system.

Common issues: Loose connections and switch failure may result in an inability to isolate power.

Average lifespan: 10-20yrs.

What is it: If the temperature or pressure exceeds safe limits, this essential safety device will automatically release water from the tank. This will protect your system from dangerous explosions.

Commonly found: The TPRV is located on the side of the tank and had a discharge pipe that leads outside.

Common issues: Leaking due to debris or corrosion, failure to open when needed.

Average lifespan: 5-10yrs.

What is it: Delivers a safe temperature to your taps and appliances by mixing hot water from the tank with cold water.

Commonly found: On pipework leading to the hot water outlet, near the tank.

Common issues: Leaks and blockages, failure to mix water properly which results in water thats too hot or too cold.

Average lifespan: 10-15yrs.

What is it: This is a combination valve that services two purposes:

1. Limits the pressure within the hot water system to a safe level.
2. Prevents back-flow of hot water into the cold water supply line.

Commonly found: This part is typically found installed on the cold water inlet pipe leading into the system.

Common issues: Valve failure which allows back-flow, failure to limit pressure which can lead to high pressure and parts damage.

Average lifespan: 10-15yrs.

What is it: Protects your system and your plumbing from damage caused by water expansion upon heating. It will allow a small amount of water to escape during expansion to ease pressure.

Commonly found: Installed on the cold water line near the tank.

Common issues: Leaking and failure to open, leading to excessive pressure.

Average lifespan: 5-10yrs.

What is it: This is where water discharged from by TPRV or expansion control valve will travel through. Allowing excess to be disposed to a safe place outside your home.

Commonly found: Connected to the TPRV and/or expansion control valve and it usually leads to a drain outside.

Common issues: Pipe blockages preventing proper drainage.

Average lifespan: Typically lasts the life of the system.

What is it: The pipe that supplies cold water to your hot water system.

Commonly found: Typically you’ll find this connected to the bottom of the hot water tank.

Common issues: Leaks and blockages prevent proper functioning.

Average lifespan: Typically lasts the life of the plumbing.

What is it: The electrical connection that supplies power to the heating elements within the hot water system.

Commonly found: Usually at the bottom of the tank, this part will be connected to the thermostat and heating elements.

Common issues: Loose connections and faulty wiring at common problems with this part.

Average lifespan: Typically lasts the life of the system.

What is it: The ripple design of this slab provides extra strength as it’s purpose is to support the entire hot water system.

Commonly found: Underneath the hot water tank.

Common issues: Cracking and deterioration over time, commonly due to ground shifts and age.