Hot Water Systems Installation and Repair
We Install, Repair And Service Your Hot Water Systems
For professional recommendations, installations, repairs or maintenance regarding hot water systems in the Northern Territory, consult with Water & Waste Plumbing Darwin. We work with small and large hot water systems in both homes and commercial properties.
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 systems, all of which serviced and installed by our friendly qualified team.
These include:
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Solar hot water systems.
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Electric hot water systems.
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Gas hot water systems.
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Heat pump hot water systems.
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Continuous flow hot water systems.
Types Of Hot Water Systems
Solar Hot Water Systems
Solar hot water systems are a type of 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.
Pros of Solar Hot Water Systems:
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Energy Efficiency: Solar hot water systems are very energy efficient, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
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Cost Savings: In the long run, solar hot water systems can result in significant cost savings on energy bills.
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Environmentally Friendly: Solar hot water systems are a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional water heating systems.
Cons of Solar Hot Water Systems:
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Initial Cost: The initial cost of installing a solar hot water system can be high.
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Location Dependent: Solar hot water systems are dependent on location and may not be suitable for all areas.
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Maintenance Requirements: Regular maintenance is required to ensure that the system continues to operate effectively.
Pricing: The cost of a solar hot water system can vary greatly depending on the size of the system, the type of collector used, and the installation location. On average, the cost of a solar hot water system can range from $6,000 to $10,000, with larger systems costing more.
How They Work: Solar hot water systems work by using the sun's energy to heat water, which is then stored in a tank. The solar panels, also known as collectors, are mounted on the roof of a building and are used to directly heat the water. The heated water is then stored in a tank and can be used for a variety of purposes, including showers, washing machines, and dishwashers.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to keep a solar hot water system in good working order. This can include cleaning the collectors, checking the pipes for leaks, and monitoring the system's performance. Regular maintenance can help to extend the life of the system and ensure that it continues to operate efficiently.
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.
Electric Hot Water Systems
Electric hot water systems use electricity as their source of energy 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.
Pros of Electric hot water systems:
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Convenient and easy to install.
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They can be used anywhere as long as there is a power source available.
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Relatively low upfront costs, making them a budget-friendly option for some households.
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They are suitable for small to medium-sized households with a low demand for hot water.
Cons of Electric hot water systems:
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They can be expensive to run, especially for households with a high demand for hot water.
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They are vulnerable to power outages, and if the power goes out, you won't have access to hot water.
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They have a slower recovery rate compared to gas hot water systems, meaning it takes longer to heat up the water after use.
Pricing: The cost of an electric hot water system varies depending on the size of the unit and the brand. On average, an electric hot water system can cost anywhere from $800 to $2000, including installation.
How they work: Electric hot water systems work by heating water in an insulated tank using electric elements. When hot water is needed, water is drawn from the tank and sent to the taps, shower, or other outlets. The system then automatically refills the tank, ready for the next use.
Maintenance: Electric hot water systems require minimal maintenance, but it is important to keep the system clean and in good working order to ensure efficiency and longevity. Regular checks and maintenance can include cleaning the unit, checking the thermostat, and checking the heating elements. It is also important to replace the anode rod every few years, which helps prevent corrosion in the tank.
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.
Heatpump Hot Water Systems
Heat pump hot water systems are an energy-efficient alternative to traditional electric or gas-powered hot water systems. They work by using electricity to move 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.
Pros:
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Energy-efficient: Heat pump hot water systems are up to three times more energy-efficient than traditional electric hot water systems, making them a more eco-friendly option.
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Cost-effective: Over time, the energy savings from using a heat pump hot water system can result in substantial cost savings compared to electric or gas systems.
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Long lifespan: Heat pump hot water systems have a longer lifespan than traditional systems, meaning you will not have to replace it as often.
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Quiet operation: Heat pump hot water systems are much quieter than traditional systems, making them ideal for homes or businesses where noise levels are a concern.
Cons:
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Initial cost: Heat pump hot water systems tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional systems.
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Location: The efficiency of a heat pump hot water system is dependent on the surrounding temperature. In very cold climates, the efficiency can decrease, making it less cost-effective.
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Maintenance: Heat pump hot water systems require more maintenance than traditional systems, as they have more components that can malfunction.
Pricing: The cost of a heat pump hot water system will vary depending on the size of the system and the specific model. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $6,000 to $10,000 for a complete installation.
Maintenance: To ensure your heat pump hot water system continues to operate at its best, it is important to have regular maintenance carried out. This includes cleaning the air filter, checking the refrigerant levels, and checking the electrical connections. A professional plumber will be able to advise you on the best maintenance schedule for your system.
Gas Hot Water Systems
Gas hot water systems are a popular choice for many households and businesses in terms of hot water heating. These systems work by heating water in a tank through the use of natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Pros:
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Efficient: Gas hot water systems are known for their efficiency as they heat up water quickly and maintain a constant temperature.
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Cost-effective: Gas hot water systems can be more cost-effective than other types of systems, particularly in areas with low electricity prices.
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Unlimited hot water: Gas hot water systems are able to supply an unlimited amount of hot water, which is ideal for larger households or businesses.
Cons:
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Initial costs: Installing a gas hot water system can be more expensive compared to other systems, as it requires a connection to a gas supply and the installation of a tank.
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Maintenance: Gas hot water systems require regular maintenance to ensure they are functioning correctly, including cleaning and checking the tank for leaks.
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Emissions: Gas hot water systems produce carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to climate change.
Pricing: The cost of a gas hot water system will depend on a number of factors, including the size of the tank, the type of gas used, and the installation costs. On average, a gas hot water system can cost between $1,500 and $3,000, not including installation.
How it works: A gas hot water system works by heating water in a tank through the use of natural gas or LPG. The hot water is stored in the tank and can be distributed throughout the home or business as needed. The temperature of the water can be controlled through a thermostat.
Maintenance: Gas hot water systems require regular maintenance to ensure they are functioning correctly and to prolong their lifespan. This includes checking the tank for leaks, cleaning the tank, and ensuring the system is functioning correctly. It is recommended to have a professional check the system annually to ensure it is operating safely and efficiently.
Benefits Of Servicing A Hot Water System
Servicing a hot water system regularly is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and longevity. A proper hot water system service includes checking for any leaks, ensuring the temperature and pressure are at the correct levels, cleaning the system, and replacing any worn out parts. Here are some benefits of hot water system service:
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Increased efficiency: Regular servicing helps to keep the hot water system running efficiently, reducing energy bills and extending the lifespan of the system.
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Improved safety: Service technicians can identify and repair any potential safety hazards such as gas leaks, ensuring the safety of your family and home.
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Early identification of potential problems: A service technician can detect potential problems early on and fix them before they become more significant and expensive to repair.
The cost of hot water system service varies depending on the type and age of the system, as well as the complexity of the repair. A standard service usually costs between $150 and $450, while more complex repairs can cost more. It's advisable to seek the services of a professional and licensed plumber to ensure the job is done right and to avoid voiding the warranty of your hot water system.
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. To avoid these issues, it is recommended to have your hot water system serviced regularly by a professional plumber. The cost of hot water system service can vary depending on the type of system and the extent of the maintenance needed, but it is a small price to pay to ensure the continued reliability and efficiency of your hot water supply.
Tempering Valves & Thermostatic Mixing Valves
What are Tempering Valves And Thermostatic Mixing Valves?
Tempering valves and thermostatic mixing valves are devices used in plumbing systems to control the temperature of hot water. They are typically used in domestic and commercial settings to ensure that hot water delivered to fixtures such as showers, baths, and sinks is not too hot, which can cause scalding or other safety hazards.
A tempering valve works by mixing cold water with hot water from the storage tank to achieve a safe, consistent temperature. The valve uses a thermostatic element to measure the temperature of the outgoing water and adjusts the mix of hot and cold water as necessary to maintain the desired temperature.
Thermostatic mixing valves, on the other hand, are similar to tempering valves but typically provide more precise control over water temperature. They also often have features such as automatic shut-off in the event of a hot water supply failure, which provides an added level of safety.
In terms of installation and maintenance, both tempering valves and thermostatic mixing valves should be installed by a licensed plumbing professional, and regular maintenance and calibration should be performed to ensure that they continue to operate correctly.
Overall, the use of tempering valves and thermostatic mixing valves can help ensure that hot water delivered in a plumbing system is at a safe temperature, reducing the risk of scalding and other safety hazards.
Tempering Valves Are Law For All Hot Water Systems In The Northern Territory
Approximate Chart In Which Third Degree Burns Are Possible
55°C
30
Seconds For An Adult To Get Burnt
7
Seconds For A Child To Get Burnt
60°C
5
Seconds For An Adult To Get Burnt
1
Seconds For A Child To Get Burnt
70°C
1
Seconds For An Adult To Get Burnt
0.5
Seconds For A Child To Get Burnt
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Hot Water Systems Last?
The average lifespan depends a little on the type of hot water system you have. A continuous flow gas-powered hot water system can last 15 to 20 years with proper care. An electric hot water system has a lifespan of 8 to 12 years depending on whether it is a tank system or tankless. Your hot water system warranty is a good sign of how long it will last.
Does My Hot Water System Need To Be Serviced?
Yes! Most hot water systems require a minimum service every 6 months such as pulling the relief valve lever to ensure it works properly. Solar hot water systems may need the panels cleaned to run most efficiently. Every 1 year most hot water systems will require you to have the relief valve replaced, this is very important as it will prolong the life of your hot water system greatly. A major service is usually required every 5 years. Adhering to these rules will keep from voiding your warranty. Referring to the owners manual will provide the manufactures recommendations for your individual hot water system.
What Is The Most Efficient Hot Water System?
Heat pump water heaters are highly efficient and use 30% of the energy of a conventional electric hot water system. These systems use a refrigeration cycle to extract heat from the air to heat the water. There are 2 main types: Integrated with the tank and compressor combined.