Plumbing

Temperature and pressure (T&P) valves are essential safety components in storage tank hot water systems. They are designed to release water when the temperature or pressure inside the tank exceeds safe limits, preventing potential damage or hazards.

Hot water systems in Australia must comply with national and state regulations to ensure safety, efficiency and sustainability. The main framework includes the National Construction Code, Australian Standards for plumbing and heated water services and product certification schemes that guarantee safety and performance.

Electric hot water systems are simple, reliable and widely available, but also among the least energy-efficient options. Due to their high running costs and environmental impact, they are generally recommended only when other energy sources (gas, solar or heat pump) are not viable.

Solar boosted (or hybrid) hot water systems use the sun's energy to heat water and incorporate a gas or electric booster to ensure consistent hot water delivery regardless of weather or seasonal conditions. These systems offer long-term energy savings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Solar panels are a long-term investment in energy efficiency, sustainability and lower power bills. But to get the most out of your solar system, regular maintenance is essential, especially when it comes to cleaning.

Heat pump hot water systems extract heat from the surrounding air to warm your water supply, offering an energy-efficient alternative to traditional electric and gas storage systems. They are especially useful where gas reticulation or rooftop solar collectors are not viable.

A home fuel cell system is a compact unit that generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction, typically using hydrogen or natural gas. The process produces heat as a by-product, which can be harnessed to supply hot water to the home. This integration of power generation and water heating offers a dual benefit, making it an appealing option for energy-conscious homeowners.

A geothermal system, also known as a ground source heat pump, uses stable underground temperatures to heat or cool a home and provide hot water. Pipes buried underground circulate a fluid that absorbs or rejects heat.

An instantaneous hot water system heats water on demand without a storage tank. When a tap is turned on, water passes through the unit and is heated instantly. This provides unlimited hot water without the recovery delays of a storage tank. These systems are usually compact and can be wall mounted inside or near the point of use.

A storage tank hot water system uses an insulated cylinder to heat and store water for household use. Electric models heat the water with internal elements, while gas units use a burner and flue. Solar systems may rely on solar energy alone or combine solar collectors with a gas or electric booster to ensure hot water is always available.