Essential Geyser Maintenance Tips for Coastal Homeowners in the Greater Overberg Region

Nikki Otto
5 days ago
2 min read

Living along the beautiful coastline from Betty's Bay to Hermanus is a privilege, and we have so much to be grateful for that rust that naturally occurs is something very small in the bigger picture. In this post I hope to bring awareness to taking care and looking out for geyser rust and maintenance.

Understanding the Coastal Environment

The Greater Overberg area is right by the ocean, which means homes here get a lot of salty air and moisture. This can really shorten how long your geyser lasts and how well it works.

Saltwater corrosion in coastal areas can cause materials to corrode 5 to 10 times faster than in non-coastal climates, with metal surfaces like those on geysers being particularly vulnerable. This can lead to significant challenges in maintaining hot water at home.

The Impact of Saltwater on Geysers

Saltwater corrosion can cause all sorts of issues for geysers. If the metal parts start rusting and getting weaker, you might notice leaks and your geyser not working as efficiently. Homeowners might find they're not getting as much hot water, or worse, the geyser could completely fail. This can happen in about 5 to 10 years if the rust isn't dealt with.

Plus, salt can wear down heating elements, which might cause your energy bills to shoot up by as much as 30% if the geyser isn't running efficiently.

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections are crucial for managing saltwater's impact on your geyser. Check your geyser annually for rust, corrosion, exterior discoloration, leaks, or water pooling around the base. Address any issues promptly, as a small leak can lead to major repairs. Regular monitoring can prevent costly repairs or the need for a full replacement.

Professional Maintenance

Getting regular professional check-ups can help spot problems early on. Plumbing companies and plumbers provide maintenance plans that can help preserve or maintain your geyser or replace it when it starts giving issues. .

Your Key to Successful Geyser Management

Keep your hot water flowing and avoid pricey repairs with some simple upkeep. AquaFlow Plumbing is here to help you maintain or replace your geysers, to keep your home or guesthouse operating to it's optimum.