Gas storage hot water systems provide reliable, fast recovery hot water and are designed to deliver many years of dependable service. Like any gas appliance, they require regular maintenance to ensure safe operation, maximise efficiency and support your manufacturer's warranty.
Routine servicing helps identify worn components before they result in costly repairs or unexpected loss of hot water.
Homeowner Maintenance – Every 6 Months
Every six months we recommend carrying out a simple visual inspection of your hot water system.
Homeowners should:
- Carefully operate the Pressure & Temperature Relief (PTR) Valve.
- Operate the Expansion Control Valve (ECV) (where fitted).
- Check for water leaks around the system.
- Ensure the flue terminal is free from obstructions (where applicable).
- Keep the area around the appliance clear of leaves, debris and combustible materials.
- Inspect for signs of corrosion or rust.
- Listen for any unusual noises during operation.
Why is this important?
Regular operation of the PTR and ECV valves helps prevent mineral build-up that can cause the valves to seize or leak.
Keeping the flue clear allows combustion gases to vent safely and helps the burner operate efficiently.
Important: Always follow your manufacturer's instructions when operating safety valves, as hot water will discharge during testing. If you're unsure or unable to perform this maintenance safely, contact a licensed plumber.
JR 6-Month Gas Storage Health Check
Recommended Service – $99
A professional inspection helps ensure your gas hot water system is operating safely and efficiently while identifying potential issues before they become major repairs.
Our technician will:
- Inspect the complete hot water system.
- Check for leaks or corrosion.
- Test the PTR valve.
- Test the ECV (where fitted).
- Inspect burner operation.
- Check pilot flame or ignition system.
- Inspect the gas control valve.
- Check gas connections for leaks.
- Inspect the flue for safe operation (where applicable).
- Confirm correct burner performance.
- Check thermostat operation.
- Inspect surrounding pipework and fittings.
- Identify components showing signs of wear.
Service Price: $99
Routine inspections can improve reliability, maintain efficiency and reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.
Recommended 5-Year Major Service
Current Price: $449
Most gas storage hot water systems benefit from scheduled replacement of key components to maintain safe and reliable operation.
Our comprehensive 5-Year Service includes:
- Replacement of the sacrificial anode.
- Replacement of the Pressure & Temperature Relief (PTR) Valve.
- Replacement of the Expansion Control Valve (ECV).
- Full inspection of the gas storage system.
- Burner inspection and cleaning (where required).
- Gas leak testing.
- Flue inspection.
- Operational and safety testing.
- Inspection of pipework, valves and fittings.
Why These Components Matter
Sacrificial Anode
Most vitreous enamel-lined gas storage tanks contain a sacrificial anode.
The anode corrodes instead of the steel tank, protecting it from internal rust.
Once the anode is consumed, the tank itself begins to corrode, which can eventually result in leaks and complete tank failure.
Replacing the anode at the recommended interval is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of your hot water system.
Pressure & Temperature Relief (PTR) Valve
The PTR valve is an essential safety device that protects the storage tank from excessive pressure and temperature.
Mineral deposits and normal wear can prevent the valve from operating correctly over time, making routine testing and replacement important.
Expansion Control Valve (ECV)
Where fitted, the ECV controls pressure created as water expands during heating.
Maintaining the ECV helps reduce stress on the storage tank and associated plumbing, contributing to a longer system life.
Burner & Flue
The gas burner provides the heat required to maintain your hot water supply, while the flue safely removes combustion gases from the appliance.
A clean burner and unobstructed flue help ensure:
- Safe operation.
- Efficient gas consumption.
- Reliable ignition.
- Consistent hot water performance.
- Reduced risk of carbon monoxide hazards in flued systems.
If Your Hot Water System Isn't Working
Before arranging a service, check the following:
- Ensure the gas supply is turned on.
- Check whether other gas appliances are operating.
- Confirm the isolation valve is open.
- Check for any obvious water leaks.
- Ensure the pilot light is operating (where fitted).
- Check for any error indicators (electronic ignition models).
- Inspect the flue terminal for obstructions (where applicable).
- Listen for unusual noises during operation.
- Confirm the system has had sufficient time to recover after heavy hot water use.
If your system still isn't producing hot water, contact JR Gas & Water for professional diagnosis and repair.
General Signs Your System May Need Attention
Arrange a service if you notice:
- Insufficient or no hot water.
- Pilot light repeatedly going out.
- Burner failing to ignite.
- Rust-coloured or dirty water.
- Water leaking from the tank.
- Constant dripping from relief valves.
- Visible corrosion.
- Gas odours (leave the area immediately and contact your gas supplier or emergency services if you suspect a gas leak).
- Unusual burner noises.
- Reduced hot water recovery.
Early servicing can often prevent expensive repairs and extend the life of your hot water system.
Protect Your Warranty & Maximise System Life
Regular maintenance helps ensure your gas storage hot water system operates safely, efficiently and reliably.
Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule may also assist in maintaining warranty coverage.
Failure to maintain your system may result in:
- Premature tank corrosion.
- Worn or leaking safety valves.
- Reduced efficiency and higher gas consumption.
- Burner or ignition problems.
- Unexpected loss of hot water.
- Shortened system lifespan.
- Possible reduction or loss of manufacturer warranty, depending on the manufacturer's maintenance requirements.
Preventative maintenance is a cost-effective way to protect your investment, improve reliability and maximise the service life of your gas storage hot water system.
Please note: Maintenance requirements vary between manufacturers and models. Always refer to your owner's manual for the maintenance schedule applicable to your gas storage hot water system. JR Gas & Water services all major gas storage hot water brands in accordance with manufacturer recommendations where applicable.
