Gas Storage Hot Water System Playing up

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)

Comments

  • Gas? Electric? Storage, continuous flow?

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

  • Mains pressure? Electric pump? Gravity fed?

    We need info if you want help.

    • 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.

      • 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.

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

          • +1

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

  • 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.

    • Is this on the unit?

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

        • 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

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

            • @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.

              • @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?

          • @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.

  • +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

  • 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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