FAQ

Cylinders

• Who can install hot water cylinders?

  Only a registered plumber can install a hot water cylinder in NZ. Make sure you ask for their plumbing ID to ensure you have a qualified tradesman.

• What size cylinder do I need?

  Typically, hot water cylinders range from 135 litres up to 300 litres with 180 litres being the most common. Call us to discuss your hot water needs and we will recommend the best size for your property.

• What is the most energy efficient hot water cylinder?

  If you are looking for the most energy efficient hot water system, we recommend installing a CO₂ hot water heat pump and cylinder. Give us a call for more information!

• How do outdoor cylinders work?

  Outdoor cylinders work just like indoor cylinders with the main difference being the cylinder and the components are designed to stand up to outdoor elements. This can be a great option if you are looking to free up a cupboard for more storage space or install a larger capacity cylinder. Talk to us now about the different options available.
  
  Outdoor cylinders are essentially the same products as indoor cylinders, with a more robust powder-coated exterior jacket applied at factory.
  
  Learn more about outdoor hot water cylinders

• Can I install a gas cylinder (water heater) if I don’t have gas on my property?

  Yes. We install Rheem and Rinnai continuous flow hot water systems, and both of these can run off 45kg LPG bottles. Contact your local power or gas company to find out gas costs in your area.
  
  Continuous flow water heaters are also commonly known as “califonts”. They are made more efficient due to only heating the water you’re using at the time.
  
  Learn more about gas hot water cylinders

• Can your cylinders work with hot water heat pumps and solar panels?

  Our standard cylinders are “solar ready” which means they are ready to be used with an open loop energy saving device such as a hot water heat pump or connected to a solar system. Cylinders for closed loop solar solutions, which require a solar coil, are also available.

• How long does it take to convert a low pressure cylinder into a mains pressure cylinder?

  A typical low to mains pressure conversion takes around 4 – 6 hours.
  
  Learn more about low pressure or mains pressure hot water systems.

• What is vitreous enamel?

  Vitreous enamel is a type of glass coating that is applied to the inside of hot water cylinders to protect the metal surface from corrosion and damage caused by high temperatures and chemicals found in water. It is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to heat and chemicals

• What are the most common hot water cylinder issues?

  Lack of pressure, leaking cylinders and no hot water are the most common issues we hear about. Call us now to discuss the best solution for your home.

• What are the signs a hot water cylinder needs replacing?

  Leaks are the first part of the visible signs that your hot water cylinder needs attention. If you have a leak and it is from the bottom of the cylinder, or there are signs of rust, then this normally means that the internal workings of your hot water cylinder are not great and it’s time to think about a replacement.

  Before a cylinder can leak externally, the water must have already escaped the inner tank. If a leak is coming from the body or base of the cylinder, it is likely that the internal source leak started approx 7-10 years ago.

  A failed element or thermostat in a cylinder of 15+ years age indicates that the cylinder has an internal tank leak and should be replaced. As water is heated inside the cylinder, the water expands and causes the cylinder to undergo a pressure increase, so the internal tank becomes more pressurised. This pressure increase results in water escaping from a pin hole leak in the inner tank (which is made of metal and is in contact with water from the moment it was filled up 15+ years ago), then dripping into the element/thermostat housing. When a new element or thermostat is installed in this circumstance, the source leak is not repaired and it is only a matter of short time before the new element or thermostat also fails. Better to replace in full and “shut the door” on it for another 15-20 years.  

• Can hot water cylinders be repaired?

  Minor repairs can be done such as replacing an element or thermostat, however if your cylinder itself is damaged or leaking you will need to replace it.

• How much does a hot water cylinder installation cost?

  The cost varies from installation to installation depending on the type of system that best suits your needs. We also offer interest free finance so you can spread your payments out over time.

• Water flowing out of my cylinder and wetting my carpet. Has my cylinder burst?

  If water is flowing out of your cylinder and wetting your carpet, it could be a sign that your cylinder has burst or has a leak. It’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage.

• Water dripping from the pipe that goes up to the roof?

  If water is dripping from the hot water cylinder pipe that goes up to the roof, it suggests a potential issue with the valves in your hot water system.

• Do I need to replace the entire cylinder?

  Replacing the entire hot water cylinder may not be necessary unless the cylinder itself is damaged, malfunctioning or older than 15-20 years.

• Is it better to fix or replace a hot water cylinder?

  For peace of mind, it is better to replace your hot water cylinder if it has extreme damage, then you won’t have to worry about your hot water system for the next 15-20 years.