I was recently called out to a home where the customer had noticed brown water coming from their hot taps, along with a sudden loss of consistent hot water. Not long after, they discovered water leaking from their hot water system, which raised immediate concerns.
After inspecting the unit, I found that the hot water system had burst due to internal corrosion. Over time, sediment buildup and rust inside the tank had weakened the structure, eventually causing it to fail. The brown water coming through the taps was a clear sign that the inside of the tank had heavily deteriorated.
Given the condition of the system, a repair wasn’t possible. I explained to the customer that a full replacement was the safest and most reliable solution.
I proceeded to isolate and remove the failed unit and installed a brand-new, energy-efficient hot water system. Once connected, I flushed the lines to clear out any remaining discoloured water before restoring the supply.
After thoroughly testing the system, the customer had clean, clear hot water running properly again, with no leaks or issues.
If you notice rusty or brown water from your hot taps, or any signs of leaking around your hot water system, it’s important to act quickly. These are often signs of a failing unit. Get in touch with me for prompt inspections, honest advice, and reliable hot water replacements.
Why storage tanks corrode
Most storage hot water systems have a steel tank with a glass or vitreous enamel lining. Inside sits a sacrificial anode: a metal rod designed to corrode instead of the tank. Once the anode is used up, the water starts working on the tank itself. Sediment settling on the bottom makes it worse, and once rust breaks through the lining, a leak is only a matter of time. A leaking tank cannot be repaired — the only fix is replacement.
Signs your hot water system is on the way out
- Rusty, brown or discoloured water from the hot taps only.
- Water pooling or dripping around the base of the tank.
- Rumbling, popping or banging as the water heats.
- Hot water running out faster than it used to, or temperatures that swing.
- A system that is more than about ten years old — most storage tanks last somewhere around 8 to 12 years, depending on water quality and maintenance.
Simple maintenance that extends tank life
- Check the anode. Many manufacturers recommend inspecting it at around five years and replacing it if it is depleted. It is a fraction of the cost of a new tank.
- Ease the relief valve. The temperature and pressure relief (TPR) valve should be operated gently every six months, following the manufacturer’s instructions on the label. If it drips constantly or not at all, have it checked.
- Keep the area clear so a leak can be spotted early.
Repair or replace?
Faulty thermostats, elements, relief valves and gas controls can usually be repaired. Corrosion and tank leaks cannot. If replacement is needed, it is a good moment to compare options — like-for-like electric or gas storage, continuous flow gas, or a heat pump, which uses far less electricity than a standard electric tank. Our hot water repairs and replacement service covers all of them, with honest advice on which suits your household. Our guide to repairing or replacing a hot water system compares them in more detail.
We look after hot water across the Northern Beaches and the North Shore, including Frenchs Forest, Belrose and Ryde. No hot water at all? Call 0450 876 713 — it is part of our 24/7 emergency service.
