About Water Heater Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Jarrad Smith • September 12, 2024

We always take hot water for granted until it is suddenly unavailable. We rely on our water heaters for many everyday tasks, like taking a warm shower, washing dishes, or doing laundry. So, when your water heater shows signs of maintenance, it can disrupt your routine.

At Ausco Plumbing, we know how important it is to have a reliable hot water system. This is why we’ve created this guide to help you keep your hot water running with good and efficient water heater maintenance. Following our simple tips, you can do your daily tasks without any unexpected problems.

Why Regular Water Heater Maintenance Is Important?

Taking care of your water heater is more than just having a hot water supply when needed. Regularly water heater maintenance helps:

Avoid Costly Repairs: Regular maintenance is important in spotting minor issues before they turn into big, expensive hot water repairs. Fixing a small leak early or replacing a worn-out part now can save you a lot in the long run.
Make your Water Heater Last Longer: When you take good care of it, it can last longer. This means you don’t need to replace it soon—of course, this means less hassle and expense.
Get Consistent Hot Water Supply: By regularly maintaining your water heater, you can be sure it can consistently provide hot water. You also don’t have to worry about dealing with sudden temperature changes.
Keep your Home Safe: A water heater that is not maintained can be risky. Problems like gas leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning, or even tank explosions (although rare) can happen because of this.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs Maintenance

Sometimes, it is not obvious when your water heater needs a bit of attention. Here are a few signs you should watch out for that indicate that it’s time for your water heater maintenance:

Issues with Hot Water: If your hot water supply is not continuous or comes and goes, it could be due to a problem with your water heater’s heating element. In some cases, these are caused by thermostat issues or sediment in the tank.
Unusual Noises: If you hear some popping, banging, rumbling, or other weird sounds from your water heater, this could mean sediment has built up in your tank. Flushing the tank might help. However, if the noises continue, it’s time to check it out.
Rust or Leaks: If you notice rust or leaks around your water heater, it is a major sign that it needs maintenance. Rust could mean that your water heater tank is corroding, and leaks can cause water damage to your home.
Slow Heating: If your water takes longer to heat up than usual, there could be an issue with your unit’s thermostat or other heating elements.
Discoloured Water: If your hot water looks discoloured or rusty, it could mean there’s corrosion inside the pipes or tanks. You may need to replace your anode rods, or worse, the tank itself might be wearing out.

Effective Maintenance Tips for Water Heaters

Keeping your water heater in good shape doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple maintenance tips for different types of water heaters:

Gas Water Heaters

Gas water heatersuse natural gas or propane to heat water faster, making them ideal for homes with a high demand for hot water. To maintain your gas water heaters, you need to check for leaks regularly and make sure the pilot light and burner are working properly. You could also troubleshoot by checking all gas connections and dirt that clogs the burner.

Electric Water Heaters

These water heaters use electricity to warm water, which means they are energy-efficient. Electric water heaters are also often easier to install because they don't need venting or gas lines. You need to check the heating elements for wear and tear for these water heaters. Sediment may also build up in the tank, so it’s a good idea to flush it out once a year. Electrical connections should also be secure, and thermostats must be set correctly to prevent overheating.

Heat Pump Water Heaters

Heat pump water heaters use less electricity by pulling heat from the air or ground to heat your water. This makes them very efficient in warmer climates. These water heaters need a bit more specific care to run efficiently. To maintain them, you must regularly clean the air filters and coils. You can also check the heat exchanger to troubleshoot any issues because it helps with the heater system’s performance. The drainage system must also be maintained to prevent water buildup.

When to Call a Professional

Even if you keep up with maintenance, some water heater problems require professional help. Plumbers have the right tools and knowledge to handle issues that are complicated for regular maintenance. Calling a professional can save you time and effort, and more importantly, it gives you peace of mind that the maintenance is done correctly.

At Ausco Plumbing, we are always here to help you with any water issues in your home. Whether you need maintenance or repair, our hot water plumbers are ready to handle your water issues quickly and efficiently. Contact us today and enjoy hot water whenever you need it.

Contact Ausco's Plumbers Today

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Step Into a Trade: How to Become a Plumber in Newcastle

By Jarrad Smith • July 7, 2025

Plumbing is a trade that’s always in demand across Australia, and Newcastle is no different. With new builds going up, older homes needing updates, and steady growth in the region, skilled plumbers are needed in homes, businesses, and on construction sites. If you’re looking for a hands-on job that pays well and offers long-term security, plumbing could be the right fit. This guide will break it all down: from how to get qualified, where to find plumbing apprentice jobs, and where to study plumbing courses right here in Newcastle. Why Choose a Plumbing Career? A plumbing career isn’t just about fixing taps. It’s a licensed trade that covers drainage, gas fitting, roofing, water supply, and sanitation. In Newcastle, demand is steady thanks to local construction and renovation activity. With a plumbing qualification, you can work across different sectors, start your own business, or even move into supervisory or estimating roles later on. On top of that, plumbers in Australia earn competitive wages, and apprentices earn while they learn, making it easier to get started without the burden of university fees. How to Become a Plumber in Australia To become a licensed plumber in Australia, you’ll need to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing, which most people do while working as an apprentice. It’s a mix of practical, on-the-job experience and formal training. Once you’ve finished your apprenticeship, you’ll need to register and apply for your licence through your state’s regulator—NSW Fair Trading if you’re in New South Wales. After passing the required exams, you’ll be all set to work independently in the areas you’ve trained for. Plumbing Apprenticeships in Newcastle If you're in Newcastle and looking to start your plumbing career, a plumbing apprenticeship is usually the first step. It takes about four years and combines paid, hands-on work with classroom learning. To get started, you’ll need to find an employer to take you on. This could be a local plumber, a builder, or a maintenance crew. You can find openings through: Online job boards (like SEEK or Indeed) Group training organisations in the Newcastle area TAFE NSW career support services Word of mouth and local connections As a plumbing apprentice, you’ll work alongside licensed plumbers, gaining hands-on experience with drainage systems, pipework, roof plumbing, gas fitting, and more. You’ll also attend classes as part of your plumbing apprenticeship Newcastle pathway, building your knowledge of codes, safety, and the theory behind the tools. Plumbing Courses and Training in Newcastle Newcastle offers several training options for future plumbers. The most common qualification is the Certificate III in Plumbing, which is usually delivered over four years during your apprenticeship. You can study through TAFE NSW Newcastle, which provides practical facilities and experienced trainers. Some Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) also offer plumbing courses in the region. These courses cover: Water supply and drainage systems Sanitary plumbing Roofing and guttering Workplace safety and legislation Gas fitting fundamentals Some students start with a pre-apprenticeship plumbing course in Newcastle to build confidence and get a foot in the door. These short programs can help you land an apprenticeship by giving you basic trade skills and a better understanding of the job. Plumbing Jobs and Opportunities in Newcastle Once you’ve completed your training, there are plenty of plumbing jobs available across Newcastle and the Hunter region. You could work in residential maintenance, new home construction, commercial fit-outs, or large-scale infrastructure projects. There are entry-level jobs for those finishing apprenticeships, along with more advanced roles for licensed plumbers who want to specialise or manage teams. Plumbing jobs can also lead to roles in project management, estimating, or compliance. Keep an eye on local job boards, trade group websites, and talk to your trainers or mentors. Many plumbers get hired by companies they worked with during their apprenticeship. Exploring Trade Careers Beyond Plumbing While plumbing is a solid career choice, it’s also part of a wider world of skilled trades. If you're still exploring, you might also consider: Electrical Carpentry Air conditioning and refrigeration Tiling or waterproofing Metal fabrication or welding Each of these trades has its own training path and licensing process. They all share a common thread: practical, hands-on work with opportunities to grow and earn as you build your experience. If you start with plumbing but later discover a different interest, you’re still gaining skills that apply across many trades and careers. Tips for Success in Your Plumbing Career Stay curious : Ask questions on-site and during class. Every job is a chance to learn. Build your network : Stay connected with trainers, classmates, and employers. Many plumbing jobs come through referrals. Keep your attitude right : Be reliable, show up prepared, and take pride in your work. Invest in good tools : As you progress, start building your kit with quality tools that last. Consider future training : Once qualified, you can add new plumbing classes to your license or specialise further. Launch Your Plumbing Career If you’re based in Newcastle and looking for a practical, respected trade, plumbing might be the perfect fit. Begin exploring local plumbing apprentice jobs, get to know your training options, and take the first step into a career that keeps our homes and cities running. Ready to get started? Reach out to your local TAFE or trade group, talk to working plumbers, and learn more about plumbing Newcastle locals rely on every day.