1. Regulations in Australia

In Australia, government regulations set specific standards for hot water systems to ensure both safety and efficiency:

• At the tap: Hot water must be delivered at a temperature no greater than 50°C to prevent scalding. This regulation is especially important for households with children or the elderly, who are more vulnerable to burns.
• In storage: To prevent the growth of bacteria like Legionella, your hot water storage system must heat water to at least 60°C. Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious respiratory illness, so maintaining this temperature is crucial for health and safety.

2. Why 50°C at the Tap?

Scalding from hot water can occur in just seconds, especially at higher temperatures. For instance, water at 60°C can cause third-degree burns in under five seconds. By law, new installations of hot water systems must include a tempering valve. This device mixes hot and cold water to ensure the temperature at your tap never exceeds the safe limit of 50°C. Do you have a tempering valve in your home?

3. Maintaining 60°C in Storage for Bacteria Prevention

While 50°C is the ideal temperature for taps, your hot water storage must remain at 60°C or higher. This is because bacteria like Legionella can thrive in lukewarm water, particularly in storage tanks or pipes where water can sit for extended periods. By keeping your storage temperature at 60°C or above, you reduce the risk of bacterial growth and safeguard your family’s health. Some other bacterias that could lurk are Pseudomonas, Mycobaterium avium, E. Coli, Aeromonas or Klebsiella Pneumoniae.

4. Energy Efficiency and Your Water Heater

It is a balance for your hot water system. While you want to ensure water is hot enough to prevent bacterial growth, unnecessarily high temperatures can increase your energy consumption. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient water heater or installing a thermostatic mixing valve can also help keep your energy costs down while ensuring your family stays safe.

5. Hot Water System Maintenance Tips

To keep your hot water system running efficiently, regular maintenance is key. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Annual servicing: Have your hot water system inspected by a licensed plumber at least once a year to ensure it’s operating at the correct temperatures and without faults.
• Check your tempering valve: Make sure your tempering valve is functioning properly. This device is essential for regulating the temperature at your taps and preventing scalding.
• Flush your tank: Regularly flushing your hot water storage tank can help remove sediment buildup, which can impact both water quality and the efficiency of your system.

6. When to Call a Professional

If your hot water system isn’t maintaining the correct temperatures or if you notice unusual smells, noises, or fluctuating water pressure, it’s time to call Proven Plumbing & Gas Services. Ready for an upgrade? Proven Plumbing & Gas are licensed and experienced at hot water installations – whether gas, solar or electric. Proven Plumbing & Gas can help ensure your home’s hot water system is safe, efficient, and compliant with Australian regulations.

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