Hot Water Systems

Installation, Repair & Maintenance

We Install, Repair & Service Your Hot Water Systems.

Water & Waste Plumbing Darwin specialises in the installation, repair and service of hot water systems, offering comprehensive solutions for residential and commercial properties in the Northern Territory.

Water & Waste Plumbing can help you decide which hot water systems are the right fit for your household needs.
For installations and repairs, we source from top brands around Australia and internationally to get you the right products at affordable prices.

There are five main categories of hot water heaters, all of which are serviced and installed by our friendly qualified team.

These include:

Solar Hot Water System

Solar hot water systems are a type of hot water heating system that utilizes energy from the sun to heat water. The most common type of solar hot water system is a direct system, which uses solar panels called collectors to directly heat the water in the tank.

Key Pros

Energy Efficient & Environmentally Friendly.
Possible Long Term Cost Saving.
Good In Sunny Weather.
Lower Carbon Footprint.

Key Cons

High Upfront Installation Costs.
Bad In Cloudy Weather.
Requires Roof Space For Panels.
May Require Electricity/Gas For Boosting.

*Approximate Price is $8500 - $11500. Dependent on Size, Type, Brand & Roof Compatibility.

How It Works

Solar collectors on the roof absorb the sun’s heat and transfer it to water stored in a tank, either directly or via a heat exchanger.

Maintenance

Clean solar panels as needed, usually once annually. Check PTR valve every 6 months and replace annually. Major Service required every 5 years, includes all the above plus flush the whole system and replace sacrificial anode.

Overall

Solar hot water systems are a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly option for water heating. With proper maintenance, they can provide years of reliable service and help to reduce energy costs.

*Approximate Price is $1200 - $2000. Dependent on Size, Type, Brand & Location

Electric Hot Water System

Electric hot water systems use electricity as the primary energy source to heat water. They are a common type of hot water system used in households, and they come in different sizes to suit different households and their hot water needs.

Key Pros

Easy to install anywhere.
Low Upfront Costs.
High end systems can be programmed for off peak tariffs.
Simple repairs and Maintenace.

Key Cons

High ongoing costs.
High carbon footprint.
Can deter renters and lower house value.

How It Works

An electric element heats water stored in an insulated tank. A thermostat monitors water temperature and reheats whenever the water drops below the set temperature.

Maintenance

Check PTR valve every 6 months and replace annually. Flush the tank annually to remove sediment.

Overall

Electric hot water systems are a budget-friendly option for households with a low demand for hot water. However, for households with a high demand for hot water, gas hot water systems may be a more cost-effective option.

Heat Pump Hot Water System

Heat pump hot water systems are an energy-efficient alternative to traditional electric or gas-powered hot water systems, using electricity to transfer heat from the surrounding air or ground into the water stored in a tank. This process provides hot water for your home or business without generating any direct heat, which is why it is considered one of the most energy-efficient options available.

Key Pros

75% more efficient than electric systems.
Government rebates available.
Low running costs.
Low carbon footprint.
Off peak tariff compatible

Key Cons

High purchase prices.
Makes noise when running.
Less efficient in colder climates.
Large ground level tanks that require good airflow.

*Approximate Price is $4000- $8500. Dependent on Size, Type, Brand & Location.

How It Works

A fan draws warm air from outside. The system extracts heat from this air and transfers it to water in the tank via a heat exchanger.

Maintenance

Check PTR valve every 6 months and replace annually. Ensure the area is ventilated and debris-free.

Overall

Gas Hot Water System

Gas hot water systems are a popular choice for many households and businesses, utilizing natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to heat water in a tank.

Key Pros

Fast heating with consistency.
Cost effective for both large and small homes.
Weather and climate play no role on functionality.

Key Cons

Requires either gas line or large bottle for supply.
High install costs.
Produces emissions.
Regular servicing required.

*Approximate Price is $1500- $3500. Dependent on Size, Type, Brand & Location.

How It Works

Water is heated using a gas burner. Storage systems heat a full tank, while continuous flow (instant) systems heat water on demand.

Maintenance

Annual servicing of burner and flue. Check for gas leaks and carbon buildup.

Overall

Gas hot water systems can only use gas to heat the water when the tap is turned on. This means you'll only ever pay for what you use. First time setups can be a little expensive but ongoing cost make it worthwhile.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Hot Water System

At Water & Waste Plumbing, we’re a leader in hot water system repair. However, recognising the early signs of trouble can help you avoid costly breakdowns and further issues. Here are common signs that your hot water system may not be working efficiently:

01

Inconsistent Water Temperature

If you notice fluctuating water temperatures or if the water doesn’t get as hot as it used to, this could indicate a problem with the thermostat, heating elements or other internal components.

02

Strange Noises

Banging, rumbling or popping noises from your hot water system can indicate sediment buildup in the tank.

03

Low Hot Water Temperature

Reduced water pressure, specifically in hot water taps, can be a sign of sediment buildup, pipe blockages or issues within the hot water system itself.

04

Leaking Water

Visible leaks around your hot water system, including puddles or dampness, suggest a problem that needs immediate attention.

05

Sudden Spike In Energy Bills

Malfunctioning systems often consume more energy to maintain desired water temperatures.

Benefits Of Servicing Your Hot Water System

Regular servicing of your hot water heater is essential to maintain its efficiency, longevity, and safety. Our hot water heater servicing includes thorough inspections, cleaning, and necessary repairs. Here are some key benefits of servicing your hot water heater:

Increased Efficiency

Regular servicing ensures that your hot water system operates efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.

Improved Safety

Our service technicians can identify and repair any potential safety hazards, such as gas leaks or malfunctioning components, ensuring the safety of your family and property.

Early Problem Detection

Through routine servicing, our technicians can detect and resolve potential issues before they escalate into major problems, saving you from costly repairs down the line.

Compliance with Warranty

Regular servicing helps you adhere to the manufacturer's warranty requirements, ensuring that your warranty remains valid.

Not servicing a hot water system can lead to several negative consequences. Over time, mineral build-up and corrosion can occur, reducing the efficiency of the system and leading to higher energy bills. Additionally, components within the system can start to wear out and fail, which can lead to leaks and potentially cause water damage. Furthermore, a lack of maintenance can result in the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, putting your health at risk. At Water & Waste Plumbing Darwin, we recommend scheduling a hot water heater service at least once a year. Our licensed plumbers will provide thorough maintenance, including cleaning, checking for leaks, inspecting the tank, and optimizing the system’s performance.