How Often Should a Geyser Be Serviced?

Most manufacturers and plumbers recommend servicing a geyser once a year, though certain conditions mean more frequent checks are worth it.

What an annual service covers

• Flushing sediment build-up from the bottom of the tank
• Checking and, if needed, replacing the sacrificial anode, which protects the tank from corrosion
• Testing the pressure relief valve to confirm it’s functioning correctly
• Inspecting the element and thermostat for wear
• Checking for early signs of leaks around fittings and connections

When more frequent servicing makes sense

Areas with harder water see faster sediment build-up and may benefit from checks every 6-8 months. Households that have been through extended periods of load shedding, which adds extra cycling stress to the element and thermostat, also benefit from more frequent checks rather than waiting the full year.

Why sediment matters so much

Sediment isn’t just an efficiency issue — it insulates part of the tank from the element, forcing it to work harder and run hotter than it should, which shortens component life and increases electricity use. It’s also the main cause of the popping and rumbling sounds many older geysers develop.

Signs you’re overdue

Popping or rumbling sounds, longer time to heat, and rusty or discoloured hot water are all signs a geyser has gone too long without a service.

A basic annual service is inexpensive compared to the cost of a full tank replacement caused by neglected maintenance — it’s one of the better-value routine plumbing expenses a household can budget for.