FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

The installation or repair of a hot water system often requires the services of both a licensed plumber AND a licensed electrician.

At Cheapa Hot Water Sydney, all our technicians are licensed and qualified to undertake any plumbing and electrical work. Plumbers who do not specialise in the installation of water heaters may need to outsource the electrical work required to another tradesperson, thereby holding up the installation of your hot water heater and adding the extra expense of employing another tradesperson.

We can complete all work in-house and don’t have to outsource to other trades. This saves our customers time and money.

Yes, we move and reolocate hot water systems for our customers all the time.   

We can move your water heater to a different location on your property or inside the home, from inside to outside and visa versa. We can also relocate rooftop solar hot water systems to a different part of the roof to create more space for solar PV panels.  The options are endless and we’re here to help.

More information

• Moving a water heater from inside to outside »
• Removing a solar hot water system from a roof »

Your hot water heater is an expensive appliance and should be repaired or installed by a fully qualified and licensed hot water plumber.

Our specialist hot water plumbers are authorised to repair and install all water heater makes and models. We are licensed to undertake the necessary plumbing, electrical and gas work required to repair or install your hot water system – so you don’t have to waste time and money employing multiple tradespeople.

We are authorised service technicians and installers for all brands including Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Aquamax, Bosch, Conergy, Hocking, Apricus, Vulcan, Edwards Solar, Solahart, Everhot and many more.

• The benefits of employing a specialist hot water plumber »

Every single customer job is different so it is impossible for us to provide a single figure. In fact, it would be unethical of us to do this because many customers would be paying too much!

We do guarantee that our customers will receive honest advice, reliable service, and professional expertise on every job. This is expertise we don’t charge a premium for, it’s all part of the service.

In fact, using a hot water specialist like us is likely to be more cost-effective than a “traditional” plumber or electrician because we are licensed and qualified to undertake all the work necessary – plumbing, electrical, and gas fitting. We don’t have to outsource to multiple trades. This saves our customers time and money.

Additionally, we have all the tools needed to complete the job quickly and safely.  We don’t have to hire equipment or use inadequate tools to get the job done.

We carry a huge range of replacement hot water systems, giving our customers the choice to choose a water heater that suit their needs – not our bottom line!

Contact us for an over the phone quote on 0410 693 532 or send an SMS.

We can typically install a new hot water system within a few hours.  The installation of a new rooftop solar hot water system can take slightly longer.

We stock a huge range of replacement hot water systems in all shapes, sizes and price categories.  We don’t stock just one manufacturer giving you the choice to choose a hot water system that suits your budget and household needs.

As licensed plumbers, electricians and gas fitters, we can complete all the work required to quickly install a new system without having to outsource to other trades. This saves a considerable amount of time.

Additionally, we have all the tools required to get the job done safely and efficiently.

While the installation process does differ depending upon the type of water heater (solar, electric, gas or heat pump), the general process is as follows:

1. Over-the-phone quote:  When we speak with you (over the phone or via SMS), we can provide you with a cost estimate to complete the water heater replacement or installation. After answering a few quick questions, we can gain an insight into your requirements and provide you with the best solution to suit your budget and needs. For a phone quote, call 0410 693 532 or send an SMS.
2. Site assessment: Once onsite, we can evaluate the property and discuss the water heater location (if different from it’s current location).
3. Remove the old heater: If you have an existing hot water system, it will be safely disconnected and removed. We’ll take away your old water heater for recycling.
4. Supply: We stock a huge range of solar water heaters in a variety of sizes and from a number of manufacturers to ensure you get the right system for your household and budget.
5. Solar installation: Using our specially designed equipment, we can quickly and safely install the new solar hot wtaer system on your roof. There is no need to hire expensive equipment – saving you time and money.
6. Ground tank installation: If you’re opting for a ground storage tank system, this will be installed in a suitable location of your property.
7. Backup hot water setup: With solar hot water, a gas or electric booster is integrated to ensure you enjoy hot water on cloudy days or prolonged periods of low sushine. As licensed plumbers, electricians and gas fitters, we are able to complete the work necessary without having to outsource to other trades.
8. Testing: One installation is complete, we undertake a series of safety and efficiency tests to ensure your new hot water system is operating correctly.
9. Site cleanup: Once complete, we tidy up the site, remove any rubbish and leave you to enjoy trouble free hot water.
10. Government rebates: When you upgrade to an energy efficient solar hot water system, you may be elibible to claim rebates from the Government. Talk to us to find out if you’re eligible.

Absolutely! We are more than happy to come and install your new hot water system.

We are qualified to undertake all the necessary plumbing, electrical and gas work so you won’t have to employ multiple tradespeople saving both time and money.

Best of all, you will have the assurance that it has been installed by a licensed professional so your warranty is safe.  If it is installed by someone who isn’t licensed or qualified to undertake the installation, you risking voiding your warranty.

As hot water specialist, you can expect minimal downtime while we repair or replace your existing hot water system or install a new one.

Our trucks are on the road right now, stocked with thousands of spare parts and replacement water heaters to get back to enjoying trouble free hot water today.

To keep your hot water system is running efficiently it should be serviced every five years. This prevents breakdown and prolongs the life of your hot water heater.

We can replace parts that may be showing signs of imminent failure, preventing unexpected and catastrophic breakdown, whilst increasing the life expectency of the appliance.

It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and trouble free hot water usage.

To ensure you don’t void your warranty, any repair or service of your hot water heater should be undertaken by an experienced and licensed hot water plumbing technician.

Yes, sometimes we are able to repair older hot water systems.

Unfortunately, most water heater manufacturers stop producing replacement parts for older models and there is no alternative but to replace the water heater.

We’ve been in the business of hot water for 30+ years and do carry some legacy spare parts.  We can’t guarantee we’ve got parts for your model but it’s worth giving us a call to discuss your water heater make and model and we will advise you of the most cost effective option.

It’s worth mentioning that new-generation hot water systems are much more economical to run so, in the long term, it may be cheaper to upgrade your water heater rather than try to repair your old one.

Yes, we will beat any genuine quote. And, we offer free delivery to all Sydney suburbs.

If we supply and install your new water heater, we’ll disconnect and remove your old system and take it away for recycling.

We stock a huge range of makes and models to ensure you get the best system to suit your household hot water usage needs and budget.

If you upgrade to an energy efficient hot water system, you may be eligible to claim a Government rebate. Ask us if you’re eligible.

Yes, if you upgrade your old water heater for an energy efficient model, you may be able to claim a rebate from the Government.

The criteria differs for different areas so contact us to find out if you’re eligible and how much you can claim. Call 0410 693 532 or send an SMS.

When it comes to hot water systems, choosing the right option for your home is essential for comfort and efficiency.

With the multitude of options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to make a decision to ensure you buy the right one. That’s where we can help. To help you make the right choice, contact our friendly team for advice.  After answering a few questions, we’ll be able to provide you with a list of different makes and models that will suit your needs

• Choosing the right hot water system »

Yes, we can switch you from electric to instant gas hot water.

Instant gas hot water systems, also known as tankless or continuous flow hot water systems, offer several benefits:

• An endless hot water supply : Instantaneous hot wate systems supply hot water on demand so you don’t run out of hot water as long as there’s a supply of gas.
• Energy efficient : Since instantanous hot water systems only heat water when needed, there’s no energy wasted in keeping water hot in a tank, which reduces energy consumption and bills.
• Space saving : Instantaneous hot water systems are usually compact and wall-mounted, freeing up space that would otherwise be taken up by a large storage tank.
• No rust or sediment build up : Tankless hot water systems often have a longer lifespan compared to traditional storage water heaters because they don’t suffer from issues like rust and sediment buildup in a tank.
• Reduced risk of water damage : Without a storage tank, there’s less risk of water damage from a leaking or bursting tank.
• Low running costs : New generation instantaneous gas hot water systems are very energy efficient.

Yes, we can switch you from a gas hot water system to an energy efficient heat pump. 

Heat pumps use approximately 60% less electricity than a conventional electric hot water system offering significant savings on your electricity bills. They create less CO2 emissions than a typical gas water heater thereby reducing your carbon footprint. Powered by electricity, heat pumps take warmth from the air to heat the water, operating much like a reverse-cycle air conditioner in winter.  Heat pumps extract heat from the air outside, heating the water and storing it in a tank. Using smart technology to efficiently transfer thermal energy directly from the surrounding air into the water, means heat pumps don’t have to rely on direct sunlight or fossil fuels to provide the energy source.

You may be eligible to claim Government rebates. Ask us if you’re eligible.

• Switching from gas to a heat pump »

Unfortunately, there is not one simple answer to this question because everyone’s needs vary.  The correct answer for each individual relies on a number of different factors depending upon your hot water usage requirements, budget and choice of hot water service energy supply (i.e. gas, solar or electric).

To match you with the most energy efficient hot water system for your needs and budget, contact our friendly team for advice.  After answering a few questions, we’ll be able to provide you with some options. Call 0410 693 532 or send an SMS.

• Energy efficient hot water systems »

Which is better? Gas storage hot water (with a storage tank) or instantaneous gas hot water?

It depends on the hot water usage requirements of your household. It also depends on the space available for the system.

Click here to read about the benefits of storage vs instanateous gas hot water »

Choosing the right solar system isn’t easy but, don’t dismay, that’s where we can help!   While price will always be a consideration, it’s crucial you also receive the right up-front advice, a problem-free installation and comprehensive after-sales-service.

At Cheapa Hot Water, our solar hot water experts are trained and qualified to ensure you get the best solar solution for your situation.

We will visit your home and discuss with you your needs and requirements. We assess the site conditions and arrive at the best solar solution for you.

Contact us for advice choosing the best solar hot water system to suit your needs and budget.

Solar hot water is our specialty and, generally, our team can install a new solar hot water system within a few hours so you’ll be enjoying energy-efficient hot water that evening.

The first step in a trouble-free solar hot water installation is the planning and preparation – all of which we take care of so you can sit back and relax.

On installation day, we install the ground level storage tank first.  Once this is operational, the gas or electric backup boosters start heating the water immediately whilst we install the rooftop collectors.

Importantly, we have the tools and equipment necessary to efficiently install a roof top solar hot water on any Sydney residence or commercial premises. This means you won’t have any delays because we don’t have to outsource from other companies, it also makes our services more cost-effective.

Secondly, did you know that the installation of a new solar hot water system requires the expertise of both a plumber and an electrician?  Our solar hot water installation experts are licensed and qualified to undertake both the plumbing and electrical work required.  Again, this saves time and money and means we don’t have to outsource to other tradespeople.

For more information about the solar hot water installation process, call 0410 693 532 to speak to one of our solar specialists.

• Solar hot water system installation »

When installing a new solar hot water system, we consider the following:

• Roof space: Most houses will use 2 solar collectors which are around 2m tall x 1 m wide each. That means you need at least 2m x 2m, plus some clearance space on your roof. For a roof-mounted tank, you’ll need even more roof space .
• Ground space: You’ll also need some ground space for the ground-mounted hot water storage tank, if applicable. This isn’t necessary for roof-mounted tanks.
• North facing roof area: It is best if the collectors can be mounted facing north in order to capture the most sunlight. If you’re not sure, use a compass or go to Google Earth to check if you’ve got a north-facing roof area.
• Climate: The solar collectors will need to be placed in an area of high sunlight and minimum shade. Shade from trees and surrounding buildings aren’t ideal. Climate can also be a factor when choosing a solar hot water heater. Extreme weather areas that get frost or very high heat will need a product designed to suit the climate.

If solar doesn’t suit your home then a heat pump system is a great alternative. In the industry we call heat pumps “solar without the panels”.

For expert advice you can trust, call and speak with our solar specialists now.

Using solar panels to heat your hot water is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for homes and businesses across Sydney. With increasing gas and electricity prices, the rising cost of living, and the need to reduce our carbon footprint, more property owners are installing hot water systems that integrate with their rooftop solar panels (PV panels).

Heat pump hot water systems can be highly efficient when combined with PV (photovoltaic) solar panels.

Heat pumps extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to water (much like a reverse refrigerator).  Heat pumps use electricity to power the compressor, fan, and pump, but the process is far more efficient than traditional electric water heaters because it only uses a fraction of the energy.

Rooftop photovoltaic (PV) solar panels convert sunlight into electricity. When installed on your property, they can power your home’s electrical appliances, including the heat pump.

• Solar energy hot water systems »

No, every solar hot water system comes with a gas or electric back up system that kicks in if the solar panels aren’t able to produce enough energy to heat your hot water.

• How does solar hot water work? 

Heat pumps use technology to extract and intensify the warmth that is naturally in the air around us and then use that warmth to produce hot water.

Using a process similar to refrigerators, think of a heat pump like a fridge or air conditioner, but in reverse; instead of making everything inside cold, they make everything inside hot!

Powered by electricity, heat pumps take warmth from the air to heat the water (much like a reverse-cycle air conditioner in winter).  By extracting heat from the air outside, heat pumps use it to heat the water and store it in a tank.

Unlike solar hot water systems, they don’t use solar collectors mounted on the roof. Using smart technology to efficiently transfer thermal energy directly from the surrounding air into the water, means heat pumps don’t have to rely on direct sunlight or large amounts of fossil fuels to provide the energy source.

• Everything you need to know about heat pumps »

During daylight hours when the sun is shining, the electricity generated by your PV solar panels can directly power a heat pump hot water system using free, renewable energy from the sun.

If you have a battery storage system, excess solar energy generated during the day can be stored and used to run the heat pump at night or during cloudy periods. If no battery is available, you can time your hot water system to run during peak solar generation times.

Heat pumps typically use 3-4 times less electricity than convenientional electric hot water systems so, by combining PV solar panels with an energy efficient heat pump, you can maximise your energy savings and reduce your reliance on the power grid.  You’ll lower your carbon footprint significently, especially if you’re replacing a traditional electric or gas water heater.

In short, a heat pump hot water system paired with PV solar panels is an efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution.