Hot Water Maintenance & Tips
The Cylinder Guy have been giving expert advice and providing hot water cylinders to NZ’ers since 2011
Mains Pressure vs Low Pressure Hot Water
Mains pressure hot water systems unlike low pressure systems gives you more equal water pressure between the hot and cold water lines throughout your home. Mains pressure systems come in many different options and are great for properties that are connected to a town supply, main water line. If you’ve got a big whanau or […]
All about outdoor hot water cylinders
Can hot water cylinders be installed outside? Hot water cylinders are a staple in every home, providing a steady supply of hot water for various needs. While they were traditionally installed indoors, in New Zealand, you can now confidently have your hot water cylinder installed outside, which brings several advantages. Advantages of installing a hot […]
Electric Hot Water Heating Systems: Leading the Way in Efficiency and Sustainability
In today’s rapidly evolving world, homeowners are increasingly prioritising energy efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness when selecting their hot water heating systems. Among the various options available, electric hot water heating systems have emerged as a top popular choice, offering a range of benefits that align with modern needs. Here’s why electric hot water heating systems […]
New Building Code Regulation: What You Need to Know From November 2024
Following an update to NZ Building Code Clause G12/AS1, From November 1st, 2024, water temperature at the tap must not exceed 50°C at the tap of any sanitary fixture used for personal hygiene (such as bathrooms). The amendment is a reduction from the current limit of 55°C. This adjustment to the water temperature limit was driven by safety […]
Switching from gas to a hot water heat pump: A smart move with The Cylinder Guy
As energy costs rise and environmental concerns grow, many homeowners are reconsidering their energy sources. One significant shift we are seeing at the Cylinder Guy is from gas hot water heating to a hot water heat pump (HWHP) hot water cylinder. This change is not just about cutting costs but also about embracing more sustainable energy solutions. Why switch […]
Is a hot water heat pump the right option for your home?
With rising energy costs and growing concerns about environmental impact, finding an efficient and sustainable way to heat water is a priority for many homeowners. Hot water heat pumps are an innovative solution that offers both energy efficiency and cost savings. But is a hot water heat pump the right option for your home? This article will […]
Celebrating a decade of innovation | Marcus and Apricus Eco
This year marks a significant milestone for Marcus and his team at Apricus Eco as they celebrate their 10-year anniversary in September. Over the past decade, Marcus has been at the helm, steering the company towards sustainable and innovative water heating solutions that have left an indelible mark on New Zealand’s landscape. The genesis of Apricus Eco Apricus Eco […]
The importance of proper water pressure in your kiwi home
Maintaining optimal hot water performance in your Kiwi home isn’t just about having a well-functioning hot water cylinder; it also involves ensuring the right water pressure. Too much or too little pressure can lead to various issues, from inconsistent temperatures to unnecessary wear and tear on your plumbing system. Getting your water pressure adjusted […]
The importance of hot water during winter
Winter is coming and The Cylinder Guy is here to make sure your winter nights stay cozy, and reliable when it comes to your hot water systems. At The Cylinder Guy, we understand the critical role hot water plays in maintaining comfort and well-being during these chilly months. Here’s why hot water is indispensable, especially […]
What to do when your hot water cylinder runs out of hot water
Running out of hot water can be a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the middle of a shower or doing dishes. When your hot water cylinder runs out of hot water, it’s important to understand why it happened and what steps you can take to resolve the issue. Here are some key actions you […]
A comprehensive comparison of hot water heat pumps: Reclaim, Apricus, and Ecospring
Hot water heat pumps are revolutionising the way we heat water for our homes and businesses. They offer energy-efficient solutions that not only save money but also reduce our carbon footprint. In this blog, we’ll compare three popular hot water heat pump models: Reclaim Hot Water Heat Pump, Apricus All-in-one Hot Water Heat Pump, and […]
Hot water heat pumps vs. Solar hot water systems
As the world continues to prioritise sustainable and energy-efficient technologies, the choice between hot water heat pumps and solar hot water systems has become a focal point for environmentally conscious homeowners. Both technologies aim to provide hot water while minimising energy consumption and carbon footprint. This Cylinder Guy blog will delve into the features, advantages, […]
The benefits of a mains pressure hot water cylinder
For homeowners seeking to elevate their daily bathing and household routines, upgrading from a hot water low-pressure cylinder to a mains pressure system can be a game-changer. Mains pressure cylinders are designed to provide a consistent and powerful flow of hot water throughout your home, offering a host of benefits that go beyond the limitations […]
Predicted Gas Price Increases
Approximately 300,000 New Zealand homes rely on gas from fossil fuel fields for heating, hot water, or cooktops, with some regions receiving gas through pipes and others using gas bottles. A recent report from the government highlights concerns about a potential “horror spiral” in the connections to the piped gas network as the move away from fossil […]
Coefficient of performance – CO2 vs R134a
At The Cylinder Guy we want to help you make the best decision if you are looking to get a hot water heat pump system. Hot water heat pump systems are highly efficient and environmentally friendly, however, not all of them are created equal. Two of the main refrigerants found in hot water heat pumps are […]
Evolution of hot water cylinders in New Zealand: A 50-year journey
New Zealanders have always appreciated the comfort of hot water, especially in the colder months. Over the past five decades, the hot water systems in New Zealand homes have undergone a remarkable transformation. From traditional methods to innovative technologies, the evolution of hot water cylinders has been a testament to human ingenuity and a response […]
Fixing holiday home hot water hassles: A quick guide
Going on a much-needed break is essential especially during the holiday season. Off to your batch or holiday home? You might find some issues with your hot water if you have not been there for a while, or if your hot water has been sitting idle. Whether these are electrical, or hot water cylinder problems, […]
Why consider a hot water heat pump system
Here at The Cylinder Guy, we offer a range of different hot water cylinders and solutions to suit your specific requirements. If you are looking for a hot water heating solution that is energy efficient, eco-friendly and provides long term savings, consider a hot water heat pump, it’s worth the cost! How hot water heat pumps work […]
Supporting homeowners with hot water heat pump installations
In today’s world, where environmental concerns are becoming increasingly important, finding ways to make our homes more energy-efficient is crucial. One effective way to do this is by installing a hot water heat pump system. Not only does this reduce your carbon footprint, but it also leads to significant savings on energy bills. Unlike traditional water […]
Unravelling the Hastings hot water cylinder mystery
The mystery surrounding the alarming rate of hot-water cylinder failures in Hastings, New Zealand, has finally been solved. A new report, commissioned by the council and conducted by Stantec Consulting, sheds light on the root cause of the issue. The data collected from plumbers and hot-water cylinder manufacturers revealed a shocking statistic: low-pressure copper hot-water cylinders […]
Hunson Model RT direct mains pressure hot water cylinders: What you need to know
Hot water cylinders play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing us with the comfort and convenience of hot water whenever we need it. However, the market for hot water cylinders is constantly evolving. One such example is the discontinuation of Hunson Model RT direct mains pressure hot water cylinders. In this article, we […]
Hot water cylinders explained – how they work
Hot water cylinders are designed for simplicity and convenience. Let’s explore how they work to provide you with a constant supply of hot water. Similar to an electric jug, hot water cylinders rely on an element encased within an insulated and reinforced storage tank to heat and maintain the surrounding water to the required temperature, […]
Chlorine Causing Issues With Pipes And Cylinders
While corrosion and leaks to water pipes and hot water cylinders can be caused by a number of things, it is widely understood that chlorinated water can contribute to the issue. The compounds in chlorine react with copper, steel and plastic polyethylene pipes in varying degrees potentially causing premature bursts or leakage.The practice of chlorinating water has […]
Things To Consider When Choosing Your Hot Water Installer
Having access to hot water is an essential element of any household. You need it to cook, clean, take a shower – and plenty of other things. Because your access to hot water is important to you, it only makes sense that you’d want to select the most reputable installer you can find.Having an installer […]
Do I need a new hot water cylinder?
One of the questions that we get asked a lot at The Cylinder Guy is whether our customers need a new hot water cylinder or whether the current one can be repaired. There are normally two reasons that we get called out, the first is around the cylinder leaking, and this can be anything from a slow […]
Gas hot water heating options in New Zealand
Gas is a popular choice for heating water in New Zealand households, for a number of reasons. If you already have a gas connection for cooking appliances, it’s easy to add gas power for hot water also. This will reduce your power bill, as no electricity is required to keep the water warm all the time – […]
Pros and cons of solar water heaters
Renewable energy technology has been generating a lot of buzz lately, as it becomes more efficient and less expensive to install. Solar hot water systems are one major application of sun-derived power, and with heating cylinders making up a large part of most households’ power bill, it’s no wonder there’s a lot of interest in it.When making […]
How to choose a new hot water system
When selecting a new hot water heating system for your home it is important to choose a water heater that will not only provide enough hot water for the entire family when they need it, but also one that it will do so in an energy efficient way, ultimately saving you money long term. Choosing the right […]
How to choose the right hot water cylinder for me
Having hot water on tap is something we tend to take for granted, hot showers every morning or a steaming hot bath at night are just ‘there’ when we need them. This is all thanks to the humble hot water cylinder, an often under appreciated appliance, but one that certainly would be instantly missed if it […]
Common mistakes to avoid when buying a hot water cylinder
In New Zealand most hot water cylinders are simply buried somewhere in the back of the cupboard, quietly doing their glorious job of heating our water. It isn’t until the dreaded cold shower one morning that we fully appreciate the vital task they perform. Buying a new hot water cylinder can be a daunting task; […]
Electric Hot Water Cylinders
Electric hot water cylinders are the most common form of hot water heating system found in New Zealand, using an electric heating element to heat the water in the cylinder, providing a constant supply of hot water. They can be configured for mains-pressure or low-pressure setups depending on the cylinder type and hot water valves used based on household […]
How do I drain a hot water cylinder?
The unthinkable has happened, you have opened the cupboard where your hot water cylinder is located, and you notice that it is leaking. Worse still, it’s late in the evening and the chance of getting a qualified tradesman in to fix the problem is next to nil. So what can you do as first aid to stop […]
Pete’s advice if your hot water cylinder is leaking!
Leaks can be caused by a number of factors, including loose connections, faulty parts, excessive pressure, cracks in the tank and most commonly corrosion due to age. Leaky hot water cylinders will cost you money by increasing electricity and water usage. When you consider 30% of the average power bill is spent on heating hot water it makes […]
Pete’s tips on maintaining your hot water cylinder
Your hot water cylinder is probably the last thing on your mind when it comes to household maintenance tasks, but this often overlooked appliance does need some attention once in a while to keep it running at peak performance levels and prolong its potential lifespan. Below are some simple maintenance tips that you might want […]
All about gas water heating
A common concern people have when purchasing a gas hot water heating system is the future of gas in New Zealand. Rest assured gas will remain a vital source of energy in New Zealand homes for many decades to come There is a misconception that the government is banning gas energy. This is absolutely not […]