Common Water Heater Problems
No Hot Water At All
Complete loss of hot water usually indicates immersion heater element failure, tripped electrical supply, or thermostat fault. We test electrical supply, check immersion heater element, test thermostat operation, and replace faulty components. Most repairs completed same visit as we carry common parts.
Not Enough Hot Water
Insufficient hot water suggests thermostat set too low, partially failed immersion element, or undersized cylinder for your needs. We check and adjust thermostat settings, test element operation, assess if cylinder size is adequate. Simple thermostat adjustment may resolve issue immediately.
Water Not Hot Enough
Lukewarm water indicates thermostat fault or partially failed element. Thermostats can drift from set temperature over time. We test actual water temperature, compare to thermostat setting, replace thermostat if faulty. New thermostat typically costs £40-60 fitted.
Water Too Hot
Dangerously hot water (scalding risk) means failed thermostat. This requires immediate repair as it's a safety hazard, especially with children. We replace thermostat immediately and test temperature after repair.
Leaking Cylinder
Water leaking from cylinder itself (not joints or valves) indicates serious problem. Cylinders can corrode through or develop splits. Small leaks may be repairable temporarily but cylinder replacement is usually necessary. We assess leak severity and advise on repair vs replacement.
Leaking From Pipes or Valves
Leaks from connections, pressure relief valve, or drain valve are usually repairable. We tighten connections, replace washers, or replace valves as needed. These repairs are straightforward and cost-effective.
Strange Noises
Banging, hissing, or rumbling from cylinder indicates limescale buildup (in hard water areas) or overheating. We inspect element for scale accumulation, check thermostat operation, and clean or replace components as needed.
Types Of Water Heaters We Repair
- Direct cylinders - With immersion heater elements
- Indirect cylinders - Heated by boiler via coil
- Unvented cylinders - Pressurized systems (we're G3 qualified)
- Thermal store cylinders - Heat storage systems
- Combination cylinders - Both immersion and boiler heating
- Electric water heaters - Stand-alone electric units
Our Repair Process
We ask about symptoms, check when hot water last worked, test electrical supply, examine cylinder and connections.
We test immersion heater element with multimeter, check thermostat operation, inspect for leaks, assess overall cylinder condition.
We explain fault found and provide clear price for repair before starting work. No hidden costs.
We complete repair using quality parts. For immersion heater replacement, we drain cylinder, remove old element, fit new element with new gasket, refill and test.
We test hot water delivery, check for leaks, verify temperature is correct, explain any maintenance recommendations.
Common Repairs & Costs
Immersion heater element replacement: £80-120
Thermostat replacement: £60-90
Pressure relief valve replacement: £70-100
Repair leaking connection: £50-80
Replace expansion vessel: £100-150
Cylinder replacement: £400-800 (depending on type and size)
Prices include parts and labour. Unvented cylinder work requires G3 qualification - we're fully qualified.
Immersion Heater Types
Different cylinders use different immersion heaters:
- 11" elements - Standard length for most cylinders
- 14" elements - Taller cylinders
- 18" elements - Large cylinders
- 27" elements - Very large cylinders
- Dual immersions - Top element for quick boost, bottom for full cylinder
- Titanium elements - For hard water areas (resist limescale)
We identify correct element type for your cylinder and fit appropriate replacement.
When Replacement Is Better Than Repair
Sometimes cylinder replacement makes more sense:
- Cylinder over 15 years old with multiple issues
- Visible corrosion on cylinder body
- Leaking from cylinder body (not repairable)
- Insufficient capacity for household needs
- Inefficient single-skin cylinder (upgrading saves energy)
- Want to upgrade to unvented for better pressure
We advise honestly when replacement is more cost-effective than repair.
Preventative Maintenance
Extend water heater life with simple maintenance:
- Annual inspection of pressure relief valve
- Check thermostat setting (60°C recommended)
- Inspect for any leaks or corrosion
- Test water temperature periodically
- Drain sediment from cylinder base annually
- Check anode rod in cylinders with them (prevents corrosion)
- Insulate cylinder with jacket if not pre-insulated
Emergency Water Heater Repair
No hot water in winter or when you have guests constitutes an emergency. We provide emergency water heater repair service. Available 24/7 for genuine emergencies. Emergency call-out: £60 plus repair costs. We aim to restore hot water same visit.
Unvented Cylinders - Specialist Knowledge Required
Unvented cylinders operate under mains pressure and have safety devices. Work on unvented cylinders legally requires G3 qualification. We're G3 qualified and experienced with all unvented cylinder types. Don't risk using unqualified person - it's dangerous and may void insurance.
Why Choose Us
- Same-day service for water heater problems
- Common parts carried for immediate repair
- G3 qualified for unvented cylinder work
- 30 years water heater experience
- Clear, upfront pricing
- All repairs guaranteed
- Honest advice about repair vs replacement
- Clean, professional service