Why Your Hot Water Cylinder is Not Heating

Is your hot water cylinder not heating properly? There's nothing more frustrating than stepping into the shower only to find that the water is cold. If your hot water cylinder isn’t heating as it should, it could be caused by a variety of issues. Let’s break down the most common reasons why your hot water cylinder might not be heating.

1. Accidentally hit the switch

One of the common causes of a hot water cylinder not heating is the switch being turned off. In New Zealand it is very common to fit a hot water unit inside the linen cupboard and we have found it common to accidentally hit the switch when reaching in for fresh linen. If you notice that your water is lukewarm or not heating at all, first check to see if the switch may be turned off.

Pro tip: Avoid putting too many items around the Hot water cylinder to protect the switch as well as the pipework.

2. Electrical Problems

For electric hot water cylinders, an issue with the electrical supply could be the culprit. A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse can cause the hot water cylinder to stop heating. If you're experiencing no hot water and the switch seems fine, it’s worth checking your switchboard. 

Caution: We recommend you not going further than flicking the switch at your switchboard. Electrical components can be very dangerous and should be left to the professionals.

3. Element Failure

The most common issue to why your hot water cylinder is not heating is the element inside your hot water cylinder could be faulty or have worn out over time. When this happens, the element won’t heat the water properly, leading to cold showers and baths. If you've ruled out other issues, get in touch and we'll recommend a quality electrician to help.

Advice: Don’t attempt to replace the element yourself. It's a job best left to a licensed electrician. We work with quality electricians and we can book in a repair on your behalf, ensuring your hot water system is back in action quickly.

4. Leaking Hot Water Cylinder

Maybe you notice water pooling around your hot water cylinder or peak under your house and see there are pipes are leaking. A leaking hot water pipe or hot water cylinder can cause a drop in pressure and temperature, making it difficult for the system to heat water properly. This can be due to rust, corrosion, or damage to the pipework and cylinder itself.

Pro tip: Leaks are often a sign that your hot water cylinder needs replacing. Before getting a plumber out, have a quick look around as this may save you money if the plumber does less investigating.

5. Incorrect Installation or Age of the System

If your hot water cylinder is old, it may simply be on its last legs. Systems typically last between 15 to 20 years, and as they age, components wear down, causing them to fail. Additionally, poor installation can lead to ongoing issues and stress on your hot water system.

Insight: Check the data plate on your hot water cylinder to find the age of your system and that may help you decide if it’s time for a replacement. PlumbSolve specialize in installing and maintaining hot water cylinders throughout Auckland.

Call PlumbSolve for Fast, Reliable Hot Water Cylinder repairs in Auckland!

Ready to fix your hot water cylinder issue? Contact us for an affordable quote. Whether it’s a minor repair or a full replacement, we’re here to help.