Burst Geysers are a Popular Complaint

We get a lot of call outs for a ‘burst geyser’ so let’s take a look at what causes this problem and how prevention is better than cure!

Know what causes a ‘burst geyser’ so you can steer clear:

1. A broken thermostat creates increased pressure or temperature beyond the geyser’s capabilities which can cause the geyser to heat up to boiling point and significant damage is the result.
2. A geyser that is not regularly maintained and checked for corrosion is more likely to ‘burst’. The sacrificial anode should be replaced when necessary to ensure that corrosion is minimised.
3. Buyinh a geyser that is low quuality can also have a detrimental effect on how well it functions and how quickly it breaks – don’t compromise on quality because of cost rather get the proper parts so that your geyser doesn’t spring a leak.
4. Constant temperature changes between incoming cold water and outgoing hot water fatigues the metal of the geyser. In winter the cold water coming in is even colder, making this fatigue more pronounced because of greater levels of expansion and contraction in the metal.
5. A vacuum collapse can’t be classified as a ‘burst’ but it is a common cause of geyser failure! When the vacuum breakers inside the geyser don’t do their job, you have a problem.

Then we have geyser leaks which are so frustrating and costly in terms of water consumption. Leaks most commonly occur at the inlets, valves and fittings so check these regularly for wear and tear and replace them when you need to.

Here are our top geyser maintenance tips:

1. Do a pre-winter inspection of your geyser to see if any parts need replacing (ask your plumber to do this) and help your geyser be ready for the challenge of winter.
2. Every 3 years youru geyser should be fully drained and all the parts and components checked over by your plumber so that you can catch any problems early and spend less on maintaining your geyser.
3. Limit damage to your home by installing a drip-tray fitted to your outlet pipe so if your geyser does ‘burst’ most of the water is channeled away.
4. The thermostat of the geyser should never be set too high (we recommend 60 degrees as the optimal temperature) otherwise you will have a build-up of steam which cause issues down the line.
5. Invest in a geyser blanket to save on energy use and reduce heat loss.

If your geyser ‘bursts’ turn your water mains and electricity off immediately, then call us on 0860 APE APE for an emergency call out so we can assess the damage and fix it professionally.

www.allpande.com