Finding the six-year-old Rheem hot water cylinder leaking water all over the laundry and hallway was not the best way to start the day.
The plumber was here very quickly and advised there was no way of repairing/welding modern hot water cylinders because they use polystyrene for insulation.
I wouldn't mind so much if the cylinder had been old - Consumer advise low pressure cylinders should last for up to 40 years - but this was only six years old. And one year out of warranty.
The plumber commented that this was not uncommon in modern hot water cylinders. This is a sad indictment on modern manufacturing standards and their commitment to build down to a price, rather than providing quality workmanship.
On top of the cost of the new cylinder is extra electricity; I'm currently running a heater and dehumidifier to dry the carpet out.
