Blueline Plumbing & Gas, one of Canberra's most recommended hot water systems specialists. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.
If you’ve ever looked forward to a long, relaxing shower and then discovered a problem with your hot water, you’ll understand the importance of hiring a professional and licensed plumber who can fix the problem fast.
Perhaps you have no hot water, or your hot water system is making a lot of noise, or there’s a strange odour coming from your hot water faucet. These and other issues mean it’s time to get a plumber who is experienced with hot water systems on board.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a hot water system repairer, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great hot water system specialist?
Choosing the right licensed plumber will help get your hot water system fixed as quickly as possible. It’s important to remember that not all plumbers are experts with hot water systems, so select one who is.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a hot water system repairer.
- Hot water repair experience. You’re more likely to get a fantastic hot water repair service from a plumber with years of experience. They’ve seen it all before and know exactly how to remedy issues.
- Reliable and respectful of your property. A plumber should arrive on time and ready to work. The best treat customers’ homes like their own, keeping mess and disruption to a minimum while being careful with your belongings.
- Effective communication. You shouldn’t need a plumbing qualification to understand what your plumber is talking about. A great plumber is willing to discuss the job at a level you can understand.
- Transparent pricing. Your plumber should be upfront with you about how much it will cost to fix or replace your hot water system. Quotes and invoices should be transparent, with no unexpected fees or charges.
- Quality parts and products. While using cheaper parts will save money in the short term, they generally don’t last as long and will need to be replaced sooner. For longevity and real value for money, look for a plumber who uses the best parts or products for the job – not necessarily the ones that cost the least.
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. 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.
- Ask the plumber you choose to bring proof of their Public Liability Insurance when they arrive on site.
The best hot water system specialists 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.
Blueline Plumbing & Gas
Blueline Plumbing & Gas have built a name as one of the regions most trusted hot water system specialists. Offering installations, repairs, and maintenance, the team can assist with all hot water system types, including gas, electric, solar, and even heat pumps.
This award-winning team have received regional recognition as finalists in Canberra’s Local Business Awards, and nationally at the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. Accolades aside, Blueline Plumbing & Gas are driven by providing exceptional service. From their friendly team through to the quality of their work; they are prompt, professional, and polished.
Licenced to operate across both the ACT and NSW, Blueline Plumbing & Gas is licenced and accredited. Services are conducted with safety and regulation first, delivering great results first time around.
Core to the Blueline Plumbing & Gas proposition is a focus on transparency. This means steering clear of short cuts and providing clients with clarity and all possible solutions. Only the best products and parts are used, ensuring a quality finish that can be depended on.
For added convenience Blueline Plumbing & Gas provide a two-hour service window and 30-minute notification period for clients. For great communication, friendly service, and a team who take pride in what they do, look to Blueline Plumbing & Gas.
Sharon Ghee shared this glowing review on Google, “We used Blueline Plumbing and Gas to replace our old hot water tank with a new instantaneous hot water system. Anthony was very knowledgeable explaining exactly was required and what he need to do. His quote was itemised and all communications extremely professional.”
Water Tight Canberra
Founded in 2010 by Tom Martin, Water Tight Canberra provides plumbing, draining and gas fitting services in the ACT and surrounding region. Its local team specialises in everything from solar hot water and electric storage hot water units through to gas storage and heat pumps. No hot water repair is too large or too small.
As a national 2019 Telstra Business Award winner, Water Tight Canberra has a reputation for delivering outstanding plumbing services. All work, including repairing or replacing hot water systems, is guaranteed, and plumbers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Customers say they appreciate Water Tight Canberra’s punctuality, commitment to customer service and honest advice.
In addition to guaranteeing the quality of technicians’ work, Water Tight Canberra offers a cleanliness guarantee, and an on-time guarantee. If a team member doesn’t leave their work area in the same or better condition as when they found it, Water Tight Canberra will pay for a professional cleaning service. And if a plumber is more than 10 minutes late to a job, Water Tight Canberra will waive the service call fee.
Water Tight Canberra business owner, Tom Martin. Photo: Water Tight Canberra.
Allan Baxter wrote on Google, “I arrived at my townhouse on a Friday afternoon at about 1:30 after a week away to find that the hot water service had sprung a leak … I called Water Tight and a representative (Tom) was here within an hour. After an inspection and quotation Tom undertook to replace the hot water system that day and did so …”
ACT licensed plumber: 2017441. Member of Master Plumbers ACT.
Climate Plus
Climate Plus provides specialised hot water system services, repairs and advice by licensed, experienced, friendly electricians and plumbers who keep systems working at their best so clients are safe and comfortable.
Electricians and plumbers repair and maintain electric, heat pump and all gas hot water systems. They provide knowledgeable, prompt replacement quotes when new systems are needed, and meticulous, no-fuss installation.
Climate Plus services all brands of hot water systems, including Rheem, Rinnai, Dux, Vulcan, Thermann, Bosch and the efficient Reclaim heat pumps. Its expert team skillfully works on electric storage units, gas storage tank units, and gas instant hot water systems. They also work on electric continuous hot water and solar systems.
Clients benefit from Climate Plus’s strong supplier relationships and extensive industry experience. Climate Plus is highly respected for its hot water system work.
On Google, Di Strang wrote, “Very good service. Workman turned up right on time and completed the job quickly but thoroughly.”
Jet Blast Plumbing
Jet Blast Plumbing is a family owned and run business with over 25 years experience. They will only send you a licensed and qualified plumber to attend to your hot water service request. They will provide a free diagnosis and quote to supply, install or repair your hot water heater.
Jet Blast Plumbing can repair a leaking tank, replace hot water elements, install a tempering or pressure relief valve or offer a system upgrade with expert recommendations to suit your hot water requirements.
With a plumber on standby 24hrs / 7 days, Jet Blast Plumbing can also attend to any hot water plumbing emergencies that may arise, no matter what time of day or night. Jet Blast Plumbing offers competitive pricing and a quick response service.
As satisfied customer Vanessa Clark wrote on Google, "I submitted a query via the webpage, got a call within 5 minutes and within 15 minutes Tony was already at my place unblocking the drain. Also gave me some tips and advice on how to keep the drain clear and was a pleasure to deal with. Will definitely be calling again next time I need a plumber!"
ACT Licensed Plumber: 2018299.
Definitive Plumbing and Gas
Definitive Plumbing, locally owned and operated, is expert at hot water system installation and repairs. Fully licensed and insured, Definitive Plumbing uses the latest tools to complete jobs quickly. With more than 10 years’ experience, plumbers handle all hot water system projects, accurately and safely, using quality parts and products. Definitive Plumbing provides free, no-obligation quotes. Customer satisfaction is guaranteed.
ACT Plumbing License: 20121603. NSW Plumbing License: 291889C.
On Google, Wayne Prowse wrote, “Andy and the team were efficient, and their communication was excellent.”
MSJ Plumbing Group
MSJ Plumbing Group is a family owned and operated company with more than 30 years of fixing and fitting plumbing and gas in Canberra and surrounding region. All work and materials, including for hot water system repairs and replacements, are guaranteed.
Vanessa Vanderzwart wrote on Google, “Highly recommend! Was super happy with the fast service and affordability compared to other local businesses. Will be using again in the future!”
ACT Licensed Plumber: 2013104. Member of Master Plumbers ACT.
If you’re looking for more specialised plumbing services, check out our other articles on the best plumbers, the best emergency plumbers, the best blocked drain plumbers, the best commercial plumbers, the best toilet repair specialists the best air conditioner services and the best gas fitters in Canberra.
Water and energy saving tips
A well-maintained hot water system can reduce your power and water bills while also saving water. If you’d like to reduce your electricity bill even further, check that your hot water system thermostat is not set too high. According to Icon Water, adding cold water to very hot water to make it warm is a waste of water and energy.
For more water and energy saving tips, read our article, Water restrictions in Canberra: What locals should know + tips for saving water.
Your experience with hot water system specialists 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 experience with any of the hot water system repairers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take a plumber to replace a hot water system?
This is a good question to ask hot water system repairers when calling around to select the best one. Some experts say it can take at least an hour to remove the old water heater and several hours to install a new one, barring unforeseen complications.
Can I call any plumber to fix or install hot water systems?
Anyone who fixes your hot water system needs to be a qualified, licensed and insured plumber, however not all plumbers are experts at hot water system repairs or replacements. It’s best to ask for specific experience on the phone and you can also check out the plumber’s website to see if they list hot water systems as an area of expertise.
What are the signs that my hot water system might need replacing?
Sign indicators include gritty or discoloured water, unusual smells, funny sounds coming from your hot water heater, leaks, insufficient hot water and even the age of your heater. If you have any of these or other concerns, it’s best to contact a hot water system repairer.
How much does it cost to repair my hot water problem?
This will vary depending on the diagnosis by your expert hot water system repairer. It could be an inexpensive, quick fix or a more expensive hot water system replacement.
Will I have to pay a fee to have my hot water problem looked at in an emergency?
This is a question you can research on the repairer’s website or you can ask about costs and other charges when you call for your quote.
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