A Maintenance Checklist to Keep Your Hot-Water System Running All Winter in Perth

Brad Melchiorre
Aug 5
3 min read

Ever jumped into the shower on a chilly Perth morning only to find the hot water running ice-cold?

As someone who’s lived through Perth's chilly winters, trust me—I know how frustrating that can be. But the good news is, with a bit of regular care, you can easily prevent your hot water system from turning against you at the worst possible moment. So, let's dive into the maintenance routine I follow to keep hot water flowing all winter long.

Why is Hard Water a Big Deal in Perth?

First up, let's talk about Perth’s water. The city's water supply is notoriously "hard" meaning it’s rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium. That hard water can wreak havoc on your hot-water tank, leaving thick layers of limescale build-up behind. If left unchecked, this buildup can damage the heating elements, reduce efficiency, and eventually lead to leaks.

This isn't just an inconvenience; it can hit your wallet pretty hard in repair bills. To learn more about this, check out this guide to preventing scale in water heaters.

Regular Flushing - Not Just Good Advice, It's Essential

One maintenance task I swear by is regularly flushing my hot water heater. Doing this helps wash away sediment and limescale build-up before they cause trouble. Experts recommend flushing your tank at least once a year. I personally do it twice a year because Perth’s hard water really doesn't mess around. Here’s a helpful guide on how to flush your hot water heater.

If the whole idea of flushing your system sounds tricky, don't hesitate to get professional help. It’s easy to book an appointment right here with us.

Anode Rod Checks Can Save Your Tank

The anode rod is your tank’s first line of defence against corrosion, especially in Perth’s mineral-heavy water. I’ve learned the hard way that neglecting this little rod can lead to leaks and tank damage.

I check mine annually, and replace it every three to five years or sooner, if needed. Not sure how to do it? Here's a straightforward water heater maintenance tips guide that explains exactly how to handle it.

Spotting Leaks Early Can Save You Thousands

Speaking of leaks, early detection is crucial. The Reddit plumbing community agrees - finding leaks early is like being your own water-damage detective. A handy trick I learned is the water meter test:

Turn off all water in your house.
Check the water meter. If it's still moving after a couple of hours, you have a leak.

You can find more about leak detection in this helpful water heater maintenance guide. If you suspect a hidden leak, don't mess around - get help from professionals. We've outlined the signs to watch out for in our own guide on underground water leaks.

Maintaining Proper Water Pressure

Another thing many homeowners overlook is water pressure. If it’s too high, you risk damaging pipes and the hot-water tank itself. If it's too low, you’ll struggle to get that satisfying shower pressure.

It's easy to adjust the pressure valve, but if you’re not confident, call in someone to do a quick check-up. Our page on hot-water systems offers more insights into keeping the pressure balanced.

Don’t Ignore Strange Sounds or Smells

Ever heard weird popping noises from your hot water tank? Or perhaps there's a slight odour when you turn the tap on? These signs usually mean trouble is brewing. Don't brush these off. Strange sounds often point directly to sediment buildup or trapped air.

If you’re experiencing this, it's a clear sign your tank needs attention. Check out Better Homes & Gardens' guide on preventive maintenance on a hot water heater.

Your Hot-Water System Maintenance Checklist

To sum it all up, here's the checklist I personally stick to:

Flush your hot water tank twice a year.
Check and replace the anode rod every few years.
Perform regular leak checks using the meter test.
Monitor water pressure regularly.
Pay attention to any unusual noises or smells.

Regular maintenance isn't just about comfort - it also protects your home and wallet from costly water damage and repairs. If you’ve got any doubts, you can always get in touch with us we're happy to help.

Keep your hot water flowing and those chilly Perth mornings much more bearable!