A fast, same-day solar hot water heating repair.
We recently received a call from a customer in Forestville, on the Northern Beaches, who noticed they were running out of hot water. They explained that their rooftop solar hot water system had been very reliable for around 12 years, and they never ran out of hot water – even when they had guests stay. We arranged to attend the property at midday, when the customer could come home from work and give us access.
Once on-site, we climbed onto the roof and discovered that their solar hot water heating system was leaking. The storage tank had corroded, allowing water to escape and run down the roof into the gutters. Because the tank was constantly losing water, it couldn’t hold its full capacity or heat it effectively. As a result, the household ran out of hot water far more quickly than normal, even though the solar collectors were still working.
Leaking hot water system? Call us for fast help on 0410 693 532. We’re here to help 24/7.
Solar hot water replacement
Unfortunately, the customer’s old solar hot water system had reached the end of its lifespan and was beyond economical repair. Corrosion inside the tank had led to leaking, while the overall performance had noticeably declined.
We only recommend replacement when it is genuinely the most cost-effective and reliable solution for the customer. Unfortunately, once a rooftop storage tank begins to corrode internally, the structural integrity of the tank is compromised. The steel cylinder deteriorates from the inside out, causing leaks that cannot be patched or sealed reliably. Even if temporary repairs are attempted, the corrosion will continue to spread, leading to more leaks, poor heat retention, reduced efficiency, and a high risk of sudden tank failure. At this stage, repair costs outweigh the benefits, and full replacement is the only safe and cost-effective long-term solution.
We discussed replacement hot water system options and the customer opted for a new Rheem Hiline Solar Hot Water System with a 300 litre storage tank capacity (model: 52L300).
As solar hot water specialists, we have the equipment to safely remove the old water heater from the roof and install the new one. This could be done in the same location, adjacent to the customer’s rooftop solar panels.
The result was a highly efficient, reliable hot water supply that works seamlessly with the home’s existing solar power setup to minimise running costs.
The benefits of solar water heating
Solar water heating offers a wide range of advantages for homeowners looking to reduce energy costs and improve reliability. Modern systems provide higher efficiency, improved solar collection, and better insulation for superior heat retention. With full manufacturer warranties and a longer system lifespan, you can enjoy dependable hot water with lower long-term running costs.
By integrating your solar hot water system with your home’s solar PV setup, you benefit from significantly lower electricity bills, enhanced energy efficiency, a smaller carbon footprint, and a better return on investment from your solar power system.
Following this customer’s system replacement, the household now enjoys a reliable supply of hot water year-round, improved performance, and noticeably reduced running costs through smart solar integration. It’s another successful installation from the Cheapa Hot Water team—helping Sydney homeowners stay comfortable while cutting energy use.
Rheem solar hot water heating systems
The Rheem Hiline 52L Series directly heats water as it passes through collectors and rises back into the storage tank. This Hiline 52L300 rooftop hot water system has a storage capacity of 300 litres and services 2-5 people. It has a stainless steel tank and is available in 4 x COLORBOND colours.
Using the rooftop solar PV system to reduce running costs
The new solar hot water system features an electric booster element that activates only when solar energy alone isn’t enough. By connecting the booster to the customer’s existing home solar PV system, they now use their own solar electricity rather than drawing from the grid. Gas boost options are also available.
Features
- Available in 4 COLORBOND® colours
- Stainless steel tank.
- Gas or electric boost options – for days when the sun doesn’t shine.
- 300L tank capacity is suitable for 2-5 people.
- Available with 2 x NPT200 or 2 x L or 2 x CSA2007 collectors – to “collect” energy from the sun.
Specifications
- Model: Rheem 52L300
- Type: Rooftop Solar
- Size: 2-5 people
- Capacity: 300 litre
- Location: Rooftop Solar
Warranty
The system comes with generous warranty coverage depending on the type of collectors installed. For systems using NPT200 collectors, the warranty includes 7 years on the cylinder and collector supply, 3 years on cylinder and collector labour, and 1 year on parts supply and labour. Systems fitted with L or CSA2007 collectors benefit from an extended 10-year cylinder and collector supply warranty, 5 years of cylinder and collector labour, and 5 years of parts supply and labour. These warranties apply to installations in single-family domestic dwellings, and terms and conditions may vary. Contact us for full details.
Solar water heating repair service
We’re here to help 24/7. No call-out fee.
If your rooftop or split-system solar hot water heater is leaking, inefficient, or more than 10 years old, speak with the team at Cheapa Hot Water. We repair, service, and replace all solar hot water systems, including Rheem, Solahart, Rinnai, Apricus, Chromagen, Edwards, and Quantum.
- Why choose us: We are licensed solar hot water specialists, authorised to repair and install all solar water heating system makes and models.
We are licensed hot water plumbers and authorised service agents for all major brands. - Fast local service: Our service vehicles carry thousands of spare parts and replacement systems so we can repair or replace your unit quickly. Importantly, there is no waiting weeks for spare parts or a replacement hot water system to arrive.
- Save time and money: Because we’re licensed to repair, service, and install all solar and heat pump systems, you do not need to hire multiple trades.
- 24/7 emergency repairs: If you suddenly lose hot water or discover a leak, we can help any time of the day or night.
Solar hot water assistance
Whether you’re dealing with a leaking tank, no hot water, or a system that’s past its prime, Cheapa Hot Water offers fast, professional solar water heating repairs, emergency replacements, and scheduled maintenance across all Sydney suburbs. Our licensed specialists repair every make and model, carry the spare parts needed for same-day fixes, and can install a new energy-efficient system if your old unit can’t be saved.
Regular servicing every five years also plays a crucial role in preventing breakdowns, extending system lifespan, and keeping your warranty valid.
With more than 30 years of experience, you can rely on Cheapa Hot Water for trusted advice, quality workmanship, and prompt service whenever you need it.
Call us today for expert help with solar hot water repairs, replacement, or maintenance.
We offer a fast, same day hot water service to all Sydney suburbs including: Northern Beaches, Upper and Lower North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Hills District, Inner West, Western Suburbs + Blacktown, St George + Bexley, Campbelltown, Sutherland Shire, Penrith, Liverpool, Hornsby, and Ryde.