Gas Storage Hot Water System Playing up

b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 11:51
Last edited 06/09/2021 - 12:43 by 1 other user

Hi Guys,

For the last few days we have noticed that hot water suddenly stops working i.e. zero pressure and within minutes it is restored. Is this something can be fixed easily. Can't afford to have plumber unless we really have to hence trying to get some ideas here.

Thanks in advance,
b_sean

Edit: It's gas water heater with storage (i.e. not with continuous flow)

Home & Garden Hot Water System

Comments

  • mskeggs on 06/09/2021 - 11:53

    Gas? Electric? Storage, continuous flow?

    • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 12:29

      Sorry for lack of info - it's gas and stroage type water heater.

  • MS Paint on 06/09/2021 - 12:03

    Mains pressure? Electric pump? Gravity fed?

    We need info if you want help.

    • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 12:29

      Sorry for lack of info - it's gas and stroage type water heater. I not sure about gravity fed - how do I check this? Thanks.

      • MS Paint on 06/09/2021 - 12:52

        Is it in your ceiling (70-80s house) then likely old gravity fed system.

        If it's gas storage I'm guessing it's mains pressured.

        • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 13:03

          No its not on the ceiling - its outside of the house on ground

          • MS Paint on 06/09/2021 - 13:09
            +1

            @b_sean: Does the loss of pressure occur on all hot water taps or just one in particular?

  • JIMB0 on 06/09/2021 - 12:13

    Check valve could be getting stuck shut. This is usually part of the shut off valve and closing it a bit can help stop it.

    • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 12:30

      Is this on the unit?

      • JIMB0 on 06/09/2021 - 12:41

        It's on the inlet pipe. Should look like a tap.

        • jellykingdom on 06/09/2021 - 13:27

          Check valve wouldn't suddenly be stopping the flow, it might stop you getting hot water to begin with, but i don't see why it would be cutting off your supply randomly

          • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 13:59

            @jellykingdom: is this the one you are referring to? https://ibb.co/Hz4nG8M

            • Montyjpm on 06/09/2021 - 14:28

              @b_sean: That's the relief valve. You lifted up the metal hinge to release the pressure every 1-2 years and let some dirty water out. Be careful of the hot water.

              • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 14:44

                @Montyjpm: Thank you….when you say "Be careful of the hot water" - I am guessing you are referring to water coming out of copper pipe connected to vavle?? Apologies for my lack of knowledge….also how long should hold it lifted?? 1/2 mins?

            • JIMB0 on 06/09/2021 - 20:40

              @b_sean: No. It's looks like this.

              https://www.bunnings.com.au/nefa-15mm-dr-brass-female-non-re…

          • JIMB0 on 06/09/2021 - 20:35

            @jellykingdom: When the burner fires up a lot of pressure is built up within the system. This presses the check valve hard against its seat which can cause it to get stuck if it's a bit old and worn out.

  • jellykingdom on 06/09/2021 - 13:25
    +1

    I have a question: what are you going to do with that information…? It doesn't sound like you should be trying to DIY it

  • b_sean on 06/09/2021 - 13:52

    thanks for your question - I am looking if there something I can fix it without needing to call for a plumber. Otherwise, I will get licensed plumber.

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