Ironically, hot water systems act up most in Summer!

Outlining the reasons why instantaneous (or tankless) hot water systems sometimes experience issues during warmer months – may help you understand why regular maintenance is important. Here are the top 5:

1. Reduced Water Demand:

In warmer weather, people generally use less hot water because the incoming water is naturally warmer, and they tend to take shorter or cooler showers.

This reduced demand can lead to longer intervals between system activations, which can cause sediment buildup in the heat exchanger or pipes. This buildup can affect performance and make the system respond less efficiently when it’s used.

2. Incoming Water Temperature:

The temperature of the incoming water is higher during the warmer months. Because instantaneous systems heat water on demand, the system must adjust its heating rate to reach the set output temperature.

In some cases, this can lead to temperature fluctuations, as the system’s sensors and controls might struggle to maintain a consistent output temperature when the temperature difference between the incoming and desired hot water is smaller.

3. Gas Burner Issues:

These systems rely on a gas burner to heat the water. In warmer months, gas systems can sometimes have trouble regulating the flame to match the reduced heating demand, which may cause inconsistent temperatures.

Additionally, any minor buildup or obstruction in the burner (if the system has gone without recent maintenance) can further impact performance.

4. Expansion and Contraction:

With the changing temperatures, the metal components within the system may experience thermal expansion and contraction, which can lead to minor leaks or other issues if any parts are already worn or damaged.

5. Ventilation and Environmental Factors:

Warmer months might mean more dust, pollen, or other airborne particles in the environment, which can get into the system, especially if it’s located outdoors or in an area with poor ventilation.

These particles can obstruct burners, fans, or vents, affecting efficiency and possibly causing strange odours. Regular maintenance by your Central Coast plumber, especially cleaning the burner, checking for sediment buildup, and ensuring proper venting, can help mitigate these issues and keep the system running smoothly.