Gas geyser service and repair: a pre-winter checklist

What a proper service includes

• Clean the pilot jet and pilot tube; check the flame is blue and touches the thermocouple.
• Test or replace the thermocouple if the pilot struggles to stay lit.
• Clean the main burner and its air openings.
• Check the flue pipe, baffle and cap for rust, soot and blockage.
• Drain and flush sediment from the tank.
• Inspect the anode rod and replace it if mostly used up.
• Check the relief valve operates and its outlet is clear.
• Leak-test gas fittings with soapy water.

Choosing a technician

• Ask what the service includes and which parts may need replacing, before work starts.
• Ask to see old parts that are replaced.
• Avoid anyone who suggests bypassing the safety valve or thermocouple.

Uninstalling an old geyser

Close the gas valve and cap the gas line properly, close the water inlet, drain the tank through the drain valve, then disconnect water fittings and the flue. Gas line capping should be done by a competent plumber. A heavy tank needs two people and care on rooftops.

Add auto ignition at service time

A service is a good moment to fit an Autopilot kit: the geyser is clean and a plumber is already on site. The kit then keeps the geyser lighting itself through winter load shedding.