Plumbing

If you're renovating your home—especially your bathroom, ensuite or kitchen—you're probably already thinking about energy efficiency and water conservation. One option gaining popularity in Australian homes is the hot water recirculation system. These systems are designed to deliver hot water instantly, without wasting litres of water while you wait for the tap to warm up.

A cold water diverter is a mechanical valve installed on a hot water line. It redirects the initial cold water, known as redwater, that sits in the pipe before hot water arrives. Instead of wasting this water down the drain, the diverter sends it to a greywater tank, a garden irrigation system, or back into the hot water storage system for reuse. These diverters work using water pressure and do not require electricity.

When you're choosing a hot water system, it’s not just about picking a brand or deciding between gas and electric. One of the most important—and often overlooked—factors is making sure the system’s capacity matches your household’s demand.

Gas remains a significant energy source in Australia, especially for heating and hot water systems. However, its availability varies by region. Urban areas typically have established gas networks, while rural and remote areas may lack infrastructure. It's essential to check with local utility providers to determine if gas is accessible in your area.

Australia's abundant sunlight makes solar energy a viable option across most regions. However, the effectiveness of solar systems varies based on geographic location, climate, and seasonal factors. Understanding these variables is crucial when considering solar installations.

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.

Hot water problems can disrupt your daily routine and cause stress. Knowing how to quickly identify and respond to common hot water emergencies can save you time, money and prevent further damage.

Choosing the right hot water system is one of the most important decisions when building or renovating a home. It impacts your household energy use, comfort, running costs and carbon footprint. With a wide range of technologies available, from traditional electric storage tanks to heat pumps and solar systems, knowing what suits your home, climate and budget is key.

For decades, natural gas has been a popular choice for Australian households, powering hot water systems, heating appliances and kitchen cooktops. However, the energy landscape in Australia is shifting rapidly.