Whether you’re having a leisurely bath, a quick shower or tackling chores like dishes or laundry, you’ll understand the importance of having a reliable supply of hot water. A continual supply is especially important in busy households with multiple residents.
One solution to ensure supply is an electric hot water system. But with so many makes and models on the market, each with pros and cons, how do you choose with confidence?
A qualified plumber who provides and installs electric hot water systems can help you sort out the maze and point you in the right direction. They’ll be able to discuss buying a new system or repairing an existing one.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing an electric hot water system installer, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great electric hot water system installer?
Selecting the right electric hot water system installer can fast track your decision and get your system installed safely, professionally and quickly. That means you’ll be able to enjoy hot water in no time.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing an electric hot water system installer.
- Licensed, experienced, insured. You’ll want a plumber who is fully licenced, experienced and insured to install your electric hot water system so you can sleep easy that it’s been done well. Check out online reviews and even ask for references.
- Quality products. The market offers many makes and models of electric hot water systems, with some brands better than others. Talk to your plumber about the quality of the systems they sell.
- Great pricing. Check out pricing for the electric hot water system itself, and the cost to install it. Not all plumbers charge the same and you won’t want to overpay.
- Warranties. Electric hot water systems are an investment so ask about warranties. A quality system will have a solid warranty on both the product and workmanship.
- Quality service. You’ll want to choose an installer who is prompt, especially if it’s an emergency. Select an installer who communicates clearly and treats your property like it is their own.
Important essentials to check before engaging a plumber
Master Plumbers ACT recommends you conduct these checks before engaging a plumber. They’re easy and only take five minutes. They’ll ensure you don’t engage a dodgy plumber.
Check that the plumber has a registered business through the Australian Business Registration website.
Check that the plumber is registered on the Access Canberra List of Licensed Plumbers. If you can’t find their name, they’re probably not licensed.
Check the plumber’s website and advertising. Make sure their ABN and license number are posted and check if they have Public Liability Insurance (ask for proof when they arrive on site). Also check if they hold a membership in a reputable industry association such as Master Plumbers ACT. If they don’t have a website or don’t have this information on their site, it’s likely best to move on.
The best electric hot water system installers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Rydeau Plumbing
Family owned Rydeau Plumbing provides prompt, expert electric hot water systems service seven days a week, with rapid response, competitive pricing and fixed price quoting. Rydeau Plumbing handles residential and commercial work with a lifetime labour guarantee. No job is too big or small.
Under Managing director and senior plumber Ben Stapleton, Rydeau Plumbing installs, repairs and maintains hot water systems, including electric, gas and solar, with instantaneous and continuous flow. Rydeau Plumbing also installs and maintains storage tanks and heat pumps.
The fully trained, licensed and insured plumbers at Rydeau Plumbing offer end-to-end solutions for residential and commercial projects, using only the latest plumbing technologies and materials. Plumbers never take short cuts or shortchange customers in any way. And Rydeau Plumbing guarantees that if the team gets something wrong, they will always return to fix the problem with no fuss.
Cost-effectiveness is a hallmark of Rydeau Plumbing’s service. Written quotes are itemised and presented in advance. Pricing is fixed and pre-approved by the customer before work starts.
A member of the Master Plumbers ACT, Rydeau Plumbing services Canberra and region.
On Google, Joel Orozco wrote, “The tech was very prompt for the appointment. Went right to work and was very professional. Fees are very reasonable …”
ACT licensed plumber 2020784. Member of Master Plumbers ACT.
Climate Plus
The team of licensed, experienced, friendly electricians and plumbers at Climate Plus are experts at electric hot water system installation. Climate Plus provides knowledgeable advice on the best system, prompt quotes, and quick, efficient, no-fuss installation. Backed by extensive industry experience, electricians focus on keeping clients safe and comfortable.
Climate Plus only supplies and installs the best products from the best brands that stand the test of time. With strong supplier relationships built through years of industry experience, Climate Plus provides great prices and warranties for electric continuous hot water systems. Brands include Rheem, Rinnai, Dux, Vulcan, Thermann, Bosch and the efficient Reclaim heat pumps.
Unlike some trade electrical companies in Canberra, Climate Plus is locally owned and operated. Climate Plus’s team of local electricians know Canberra and Canberra properties.
Clients can book an appointment online or call.
On Google, Elle Askelin wrote, “Technician was very prompt and thorough. A++ service. Have used Climate Plus previously. Their online booking service it quite easy-to-use.”
MSJ Plumbing Group
MSJ Plumbing Group, family owned and operated, has over 30 years’ experience fixing and fitting plumbing and gas in Canberra and surrounding region. Services include hot water systems (replacements and service and the full range of other plumbing needs. All work is guaranteed. MSJ Plumbing Group provides service 24/7.
ACT Licensed Plumber: 2013104. Member of Master Plumbers ACT.
Peter Chamberlain wrote on Google, “I've used the team at MSJ Plumbing on multiple occasions and have always been left highly impressed!”
Jet Blast Plumbing
Jet Blast Plumbing—family owned and run—has more than 25 years’ experience. The friendly, experienced and qualified team helps with hot water system repairs and installation, blocked drains/toilets, gas fitting, leaking taps/toilets, burst pipes, and emergency plumbing services. Tony provides personal and prompt customer service and quality workmanship on all jobs.
ACT Licensed Plumber: 2018299.
Rayeed Tahman wrote on Google, “Tony was excellent and identified the issue plus installed a new hot water tank in one day.”
Water Tight Canberra
Water Tight Canberra provides plumbing, drainage and gas fitting services across the Canberra region. All work is guaranteed. Water Tight Canberra has a reputation for quality plumbing services, including installing and repairing hot water systems and electric storage hot water units.
ACT licensed plumber: 2017441. Member of Master Plumbers ACT.
On Google, Emma Fielder wrote, “Called Water Tight when our old hot water system decided to cark it at the start of a cold winter's weekend … they were thoroughly professional …”
If you’re looking for more information on hot water systems and other plumbing needs, you might like the many articles we have on the topic. This includes the best hot water systems repairers, best emergency plumbers and best blocked drain specialists Canberra has to offer. The list also includes the best plumbers in Canberra, Belconnen, Tuggeranong and the best Queanbeyan has to offer.
Your experience with electric hot water system installers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback, if you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had any experience with any of the electric hot water system installers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an electric hot water system?
An electric hot water system is often a storage tank that holds water. Cold water comes in through a dip tube and is heated using electric elements inside the tank. The hot water rises in the tank and is moved throughout your home through a heat-out pipe. You can also get tankless units.
What is the best electric hot water system?
Choosing the bet electric hot water system depends on your needs and budget. Dozens of makes and models are on the market, and different sizes too. Prices vary so talk to your installer about options.
How much does it cost to buy an electric hot water system?
The cost to buy and install an electric hot water system depends on many factors. This includes brand, size and the type of system. Some storage tanks are small and others hold several hundred litres of water. The length of the warranty can also influence the cost.
Is an electric hot water system the most energy efficient?
While electric hot water systems are one of the most commonly used hot water heaters across Australia, their energy efficiency varies depending on many factors. This includes the size and age of the system. Remember that some systems store hot water in a tank and risk heat loss while they’re on standby.
Do I need a plumber to install my electric hot water system?
Installing electric hot water systems isn’t a DIY job. It must be done according to strict Australian regulations. You’ll need to use a licensed plumber to install (or fix) your hot water system for peace of mind. You don’t want to risk causing a fire or damage with incorrect installation. You may also need an electrician, depending on your circumstance.