There’s nothing worse than turning on the tap expecting a nice, hot shower, only to find cold water. If your hot water cylinder has suddenly stopped working, don’t panic. There are a few common reasons why this happens, and in most cases, a professional plumber can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
At South Auckland Plumbing, our expert technicians have been helping local homeowners restore their hot water for years. Here’s what could be going on with your system and how we can help.
1. Faulty Thermostat
Your cylinder’s thermostat controls the temperature of your hot water. If it fails, the water may not heat up at all or might get too hot.
Signs of a faulty thermostat include:
- No hot water, even when the power is on
- Water that’s too hot or inconsistent
- The cylinder is not clicking on as usual
Our team can test your thermostat and replace it quickly to get your hot water running properly again.
2. Broken Heating Element
Most electric hot water cylinders use one or two heating elements to warm the water. If one burns out, your cylinder will struggle to produce enough hot water or stop altogether.
A qualified plumber can safely test and replace the element, making sure your system runs efficiently again.
Tip: If you notice your hot water running out faster than usual, one of the elements may have failed.
3. Water Leaks or Pressure Problems
Leaks are another common cause of cylinder trouble. A small leak at the base of the tank or from connecting pipes can reduce efficiency and, in some cases, damage electrical parts.
You may also have problems if your pressure relief valve is faulty or blocked. These issues are best handled by professionals, as trying to fix them yourself can be risky when water and electricity are involved.
4. Power or Fuse Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the cylinder itself but the power supply. A tripped breaker or blown fuse can interrupt heating.
If you’re comfortable checking your switchboard, make sure the hot water circuit is on. If it keeps tripping, that’s a sign you’ll need an electrician or plumber to look into it further.
Why Call South Auckland Plumbing?
Hot water cylinders are complex systems, and dealing with electrical components or pressurised tanks can be dangerous without the right training.
When you call South Auckland Plumbing’s team, you’ll get:
- Fast diagnosis and repair from qualified technicians
- Expert advice on whether repair or replacement is best
- Reliable service backed by decades of local experience
We work with all major cylinder brands and handle both electric and gas systems, ensuring your hot water is restored safely and efficiently.
When to Consider a Replacement
If your hot water cylinder is more than 10 to 15 years old, it may be time to think about upgrading. Modern cylinders are more energy-efficient, safer, and better suited to growing households.
Learn more about our hot water cylinder installation services and find the right size and model for your needs.
Get Your Hot Water Back Today
Don’t put up with cold showers any longer. Whether it’s a small fault or a full replacement, South Auckland Plumbing can help.
Contact our team today for prompt, reliable hot water cylinder repairs anywhere in South Auckland.