Plumbing | BUILD | Page 9

Plumbing

See how plumbing is installed in homes, and what to do in plumbing emergencies. Learn about fittings, fixtures, and water and energy efficient plumbing.

Tank/tankless hybrid hot water systems

Hybrid hot water systems combine the benefits of traditional storage tanks and instantaneous (tankless) units. They typically store a small amount of pre‑heated water for immediate use while relying on an on‑demand heating element to supply additional hot water as needed. This design aims to provide continuous hot water without the long recovery times of full storage systems or the energy spikes of purely tankless models.

Temperature controllers

Temperature controllers play a vital role in modern Australian homes, particularly in renovations and new builds that must meet today’s safety, energy and sustainability standards. These devices regulate water temperature at outlets, reducing the risk of scalding and helping households comply with current building codes.

Hot water recirculation systems

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.

Cold water diverters

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.

Natural gas hot water systems

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.

How to choose a hot water system

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.

Six hot water emergencies and how to deal with them

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.
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