You listened to the marketing hype and decided to “Install a Rheem”? Good choice to keep that hot water coming on “Steady, hot and strong” – but what happens when yours stops working and you’re left with cold water after a long, hot day? Don’t worry, because like any appliance, they’re not perfect. But what do you do when your Rheem is no longer steady, hot and strong? Answer: Do some Rheem hot water system troubleshooting!
Electric Rheem Troubleshooting Guide
For electric Rheem systems:
- Check the power supply and circuit breaker
- Check the thermostat settings
- Look for element failure
- Check the pressure relief valve
If you’re not comfortable with electrical components, contact us now.
General Troubleshooting Steps
- Check for Error Codes: If you have a continuous flow Rheem, familiarise yourself with the error codes that flash up when something’s gone wrong. Look up the Rheem code and follow the instructions.
- Read the Rheem Troubleshooting Guide: This guide covers a wide range of issues across the whole Rheem HWS range, not specific to a particular model or type.
- Check the Pilot Light: If your Rheem gas hot water heater isn’t working, it might just be the pilot light has gone out or you’ve got a hot water leak. Rheem has a video on how to relight a pilot light for you.
- Check for Water Leaks: Understand how your system’s temperature relief and expansion control valves work. A little water discharge is normal during the heating cycle.
- Fix Temperature Fluctuations: Check if your heater is being affected by water flow restrictors or water-saving low-flow taps.
Solar Rheem Systems: Common Problems and Solutions
Solar hot water systems have their own unique issues:
- Check for shading on solar collectors
- Check the pump is working
- Check the backup electric or gas booster is working
- Look for glycol leaks in closed-loop systems
Do you have a heat pump?
Are you benefitting from the superior energy efficiency and smaller carbon footprint of a Rheem heat pump? You’ll also helpfully see fault codes indicated through the flashing lights on the controller, and they will vary depending on the model – for instance, the codes for the 310L model are different from the 325L model because of the specific operational issues they face.
How to Reset Your Rheem Hot Water System
Resetting your Rheem system will often fix minor issues:
- Turn off the power
- Wait 30 seconds
- Turn the power back on
- Let the system heat up and check it’s working properly
Note: Reset procedures may vary by model, check your user manual for specific instructions.
Check Your Rheem Warranty
Before you call for service:
- Find your model and serial number
- Call Rheem 1300 556 036 to check your warranty
- What’s covered and for how long
- How to make a warranty claim
Save Energy: Rheem Tips
To get the most from your Rheem:
- Insulate hot water pipes to prevent heat loss
- Set the thermostat to the recommended temperature (usually 60°C)
- Use cold water for laundry when you can
- Fix any leaking taps ASAP
- Consider a timer for electric systems
DIY Rheem Maintenance: Monthly Checklist
Regular maintenance will prevent many problems:
- Check and exercise the relief valve
- Check the anode rod
- Keep the area around your system clear of debris & obstructions
- Flush water (a drain) every now and then to get rid of sediment
- If your temperature is inconsistent, you’ll need a hot water plumber to do any modifications or to check the tempering valve.
When to DIY and When to Call a Pro
Some maintenance tasks can be done yourself, others require professional help:
- DIY: Check for leaks, reset the system, adjust thermostat settings
- Pro: Electrical work, gas fitting, major component replacement
Rheem Model Comparison: Troubleshooting by Type
Different Rheem models will have different troubleshooting:
- Continuous Flow Systems: Will often display error codes for you to diagnose
- Heat Pump Systems: Will have unique fault codes indicated by flashing lights on the controller
- Storage Tank Systems: May require different approach for gas and electric models
Compliance: Hot Water System Repairs Regulations
Check the regulations when repairing hot water systems:
- In Australia some tasks must be done by licensed professionals
- Check with your local council for your area’s requirements
- Any modifications must comply with Australian Standards
Call Rheem: Support and Hours
Still having issues? Call Rheem:
- Customer Support 1300 556 036
- Website: www.rheem.com.au/contact-us
Rapid Service Plumbing: Your Hot Water Hero
Your Rheem is reliable but it’s still a complex piece of technology. Hopefully our Rheem hot water systems troubleshooting guide has fixed the issue but if not or you’re sure something more serious is going on, call the friendly team at Rapid Service Plumbing. We’re available 24/7 in emergencies, we offer no obligation quotes and upfront pricing and we guarantee our workmanship – forever! Our plumbers service the greater Sydney areas including Canterbury-Bankstown, City of Sydney, Eastern Suburbs, Hills District, Inner West, Sutherland Shire, North Shore, and Northern Beaches. Not only that, our Melburnian neighbours can now experience high-quality plumbing services as we have expanded to Melbourne! Rapid Service Plumbing is only ever a single call away for advice and a rapid response, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.
