Storage Water Heater Maintenance: DIY vs. Pro in Kogarah

If you live in Kogarah or nearby St. George suburbs, having a reliable hot water system isn’t just a luxury — it’s something you count on every day. From that warm morning shower to keeping your café’s kitchen running at peak hours, your storage tank water heater quietly does the heavy lifting. But like any appliance, it needs proper storage water heater maintenance. When problems pop up, the tricky part is deciding whether to grab your tools or call a licensed plumber.

This guide is here to make that decision easier. We’ll go over what you can safely handle yourself, the risks of DIY, and why professional maintenance is often the smarter choice. We’ll also share a couple of practical tips you can use right now to keep your system running well.

A well-maintained storage tank doesn’t just give you consistent hot water — it also saves you money by running more efficiently and lasting longer. Neglect it, and you could be dealing with expensive repairs or a complete replacement sooner than expected.

Understanding Your Storage Tank Hot Water System

A storage tank water heater works by heating water and storing it until you need it. The main components include:

The Tank

Holds the heated water and is insulated to keep it warm for extended periods.

Heating Element or Gas Burner

Depending on your system, this heats the water inside the tank.

Thermostat

Controls the temperature to ensure it’s hot enough but not dangerous.

Anode Rod

A metal rod that attracts minerals and prevents corrosion, protecting the inside of your tank.

Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve

If the pressure gets too high, this safety feature releases it.

In Kogarah homes and businesses, we often see similar issues crop up: sediment building up at the bottom of the tank, rusty or discoloured water, inconsistent water temperatures, or strange noises like banging and popping. Each of these is a sign your system is asking for attention. The sooner you deal with them, the easier and cheaper the fix usually is.

DIY Maintenance Tasks You Can Safely Handle

There are a few low-risk maintenance jobs you can confidently do yourself:

Check the Temperature Setting

Your thermostat should be set to around 60°C. This temperature is hot enough to prevent harmful bacteria like Legionella from growing, but not so hot that it risks scalding you. Keeping your energy bills low is another benefit.

Visual Inspections

Every couple of months, take a good look at your water heater. Check the pipes, connections, and the area around the tank for signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage. Spotting a minor issue now could prevent a major one later.

Partial Flushing

Minerals from your water supply can settle to the bottom of the tank over time and turn into sediment. A partial flush can help remove some of this buildup. Turn off the gas or electricity, connect a hose to the drain valve, and pour a few litres of water down the drain until it's clear. This simple step can improve heating efficiency and extend the life of your system.

Pro-Tip: Set a reminder in your phone to check your water heater every three months. They only take a minute or two, but they can save you a lot of money over time.

Some homeowners also take on small tasks like replacing an anode rod or adjusting the thermostat themselves. Just remember that these jobs require the right tools, a bit of know-how, and a good understanding of safety precautions.

The Risks and Limitations of DIY Work

While DIY might seem like a money-saver, it comes with risks. Gas leaks, electrical faults, and overheating water aren’t just inconvenient — they can be dangerous. Misdiagnosing an issue might lead you to replace the wrong part or overlook a bigger problem entirely.

Improper repairs can also void your manufacturer’s warranty, meaning you won’t have coverage if the system fails. And even if you enjoy a bit of weekend tinkering, the time and effort involved in learning and doing these repairs properly can outweigh the savings.

Why It's a Good Idea to Hire a Professional Plumber

Calling in a licensed plumber gives you several significant advantages:

Accurate Diagnosis

A trained eye can quickly find the real cause of the problem without trial and error.

Safe Handling

Plumbers are equipped to deal with high-pressure water, gas lines, and electrical components safely.

Specialised Tools

Professionals have tools and equipment you won’t find in your average toolbox, ensuring the work is precise and thorough.

Warranty Compliance

Many manufacturers require maintenance and repairs to be carried out by licensed professionals for the warranty to remain valid.

Long-Term Savings

Proper servicing can prevent costly breakdowns and improve your system’s efficiency, meaning lower energy bills over time.

From experience, I’ve seen the difference professional intervention makes. A Kogarah homeowner once tried fixing their pilot light issue on their own. After a week with no hot water, they called us. We found that the DIY attempt had damaged the thermocouple — a simple fix turned into a more costly repair. We handled it the same day, but it could have been sorted more quickly and at a lower cost if they’d called us first.

When to Call a Plumber for Your Storage Tank

You should get a professional involved if you notice:

Persistent Leaks

Even small drips can be signs of a bigger issue, like corrosion inside the tank.

No Hot Water

This could be due to heating element failure, thermostat issues, or a bigger system fault.

Unusual Noises

Banging, popping, or rumbling often means sediment has built up in the tank.

Rusty or Discoloured Water

This could signal internal rusting, which might lead to a complete tank replacement.

Pilot Light Issues

If your gas system’s pilot light keeps going out, it could be a problem with the thermocouple or gas supply.

It’s also worth booking annual professional maintenance. In some cases, your warranty might even require it. Even if you’re confident doing smaller tasks, a complete system check by a licensed plumber once a year keeps things running safely and efficiently.

Pro-Tip: Don’t wait until your water runs cold to call for help. If your system starts making odd noises or your water pressure changes suddenly, those are early warning signs that can prevent a complete breakdown if addressed quickly.

Best Practices for Storage Water Heater Maintenance

Flush it Regularly

Sediment buildup reduces efficiency and can cause damage. A complete flush once a year by a professional keeps things clean inside the tank.

Replace Anode Rods

This sacrificial rod protects your tank from corrosion. Replacing it before it’s completely worn out can extend your tank’s lifespan significantly.

Monitor for Rust or Leaks

Look for signs of corrosion or water around the tank's base and fittings.

Get Annual Inspections

Even if you handle small jobs yourself, a yearly inspection by a plumber ensures all components are safe and working as they should.

FAQs About Storage Water Heater Maintenance

Do I need to flush my water heater?

Yes. Flushing clears out sediment that reduces efficiency and can damage the tank.

How do I know if my water heater needs to be flushed?

Signs include popping noises, rusty water, or running out of hot water faster than usual.

What happens if I never drain my water heater?

Sediment will build up, making the system work harder and shortening its lifespan.

Does vinegar clean water heaters?

It can. Vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits, but should be used carefully to avoid damaging the system.

Can storage heaters be serviced?

Definitely, regular servicing is essential for performance, safety, and warranty protection.

What if I need to get storage water heater maintenance services?

If you’re in Kogarah or anywhere in the St. George area, All Needs Plumbing is ready to help. We have 24/7 same-day service for no extra cost, a 15% discount for seniors, and $150 off brand-new hot water systems. 

Our licensed team does everything, from minor fixes to full replacements, so you don't have to worry about getting hot water. Call All Needs Plumbing today and let us keep your storage tank in top shape for years to come.

Available 24/7 For Emergency

1300 110 230 Get a Free Quote