About Rheem

Rheem hot water systems have been number one with Australian customers ever since 1939. The reason for this is simple, Rheem products are high-performing, durable and long-lasting. Also, this brand’s hot water systems are energy efficient, regardless of their size or capacity. Only quality materials go into these systems, and this is why they are the brand that we highly recommend for your home. On top of all of this, Rheem offers a wide assortment of models that are suitable for all sizes of families.

Examples of the Models of Rheem Electric Hot Water Systems That We Carry

• Rheem’s Small Capacity is ideal for small spaces that require only a limited supply of hot water. Comes with a 7-year warranty.

• Rheem’s 45L COMPACT Electric number 191045 is specially made for a quick and simple installation. Its compact size is perfect for underneath kitchen benches, in a laundry room and inside cupboards. Comes with recessed plugs, dual-handed fittings and a 7-year warranty.

• 191/192 Rheemglas® models are currently our most popular electric hot water heaters. They come in sizes ranging from 25 L up to 160 L.

• Rheem Stellar® Electric Stainless Steel models combine the high-performance and purity of a stainless steel cylinder with efficient thermal capabilities. They come with a 10-year warranty.

• Rheem’s 491/492 series of electric water heaters come in single-element and twin-element styles in sizes 250 L, 315 L, and 400 L.

• RheemPlus® Electric Hot Water Heaters efficiently store water at a temperature above 60-degrees C but the maximum temperature of your tap water will never be over 50-degrees C to prevent scalding. These models come with a 7-year warranty.

Turn to Bexley Hot Water Repairs to learn additional facts about Rheem electric hot water systems and which model is the ideal one for your home and family. We will meet with you to find out your specific hot water needs and make our recommendation for the size, capacity and style of Rheem system that will work efficiently for you. All of our products and services come with a guarantee for your protection. In addition, we provide 24-hour emergency services all throughout the year.

Water Heaters: Knowing When to Replace

If there’s no hot water at all, then the choice to replace is straightforward. What about the ambiguous scenarios? Well, look for at least two telltale signs, ones that indicate imminent failure. Leakage in the area where the heater is installed, well, that’s a no-brainer. The appliance is failing. The engineer will likely check nearby pipes for signs of a damaged gasket, but the odds are good that the water heater is on its way out. Other giveaways include a noisy tank and rusty water.

Solving Pre-Installation Questions 

Contemporary water heaters are more energy efficient than their predecessors. That’s an important feature, especially when you consider how many kilowatts this large appliance can consume. Still, before that high-efficiency model can be selected properly, the technician needs to know your fuel type. Gas or electric, fuel oil or some other exotic energy source, the tech selects the water heater. The next choice is a little harder to make, but the energy efficiency question does simplify matters. Is this a standard storage heater or a tankless model? Conventional water heaters are relatively efficient, especially when they’re insulated, but the tankless variant offers an ‘on-demand’ feature that really brings home the savings.

The Nitty-Gritty of Installation 

The above points have been weighed, plus the capacity of the water heater matches the size of the property. Next, turn off the water supply and isolate the fuel source. That means the gas or oil line needs to be shut off. Likewise, the electrical circuit breaker should be switched ‘OFF.’ After the old unit has been pulled, the new model is leveraged into position. All being well, it fits perfectly. Now the various fittings require attention. Copper or plastic pipes, they must couple perfectly. In the case of that metal piping solution, matters can be simplified by employing a series of flexible metal hoses.

The installation process continues with a safety-conscious mindset. Happily, half the work is solved during the prep stage, the selection of the right water heater and knowledge of the existing fittings. From here, the newly installed model is hooked into the hot water line. Again, seasoned engineers do this job best, because they establish safe working practices. Fuel and power isolation is a must here, as is an intermediate to expert skill level.

Electric vs Gas — What’s the difference?

Obviously, the primary difference between an electric water heater and a gas water heater is the energy source that the machine operates on. The gas water heater obviously runs on natural gas while the electric water heater runs on electricity. Now, these two forms of fuel create a stark departure between how each of these water heaters will end up functioning. So, let’s go ahead and look at the functional differences between the two options by analysing a few key aspects.

Energy Efficiency – The Energy Competition

When it comes to efficiency you are going to want to opt for electric water heaters. Why? Well, we’re glad that you asked.

Gas water heater units are pretty inefficient thanks to the way that they functionally operate. For a gas water heater the water tank is always kept hot, which means that you are going to see a lot of energy being used up even when you do not need it.

Electric water heater units are much more efficient with their use due to the nature of the system. Still, this efficiency is sometimes mitigated by the higher operating costs of electrical power.

Performance – Peak Performance Variables
Now that we have talked about energy consumption let us talk about the actual performance factors between an electric water heater and a gas water heater. They both perform vastly different and this can be the ultimate deciding factor.

Gas water heaters can typically heat and re-heat their entire tank in a single hour. The re-heating process is called the ‘recovery rate’ and it is much quicker than their electric counterparts. Electric water heaters heat up slower but they are more ‘green’ in their energy consumption.

Ultimately, the deciding factor between an electric and gas water heater comes down to your personal needs. Analyse the size of your home and how many people you are seeking to surface. Then take this information to a professional and make your choice.

The Solar Water Heater System

A solar water heater operates in the exact fashion that you would expect: via solar power. Solar water heaters are becoming more popular in certain areas because they offer a more affordable, convenient, and efficient energy source for customers who want to get away from gas or electric systems. Solar water heaters have a few requirements before they can be installed but a professional company can outline those for you before installation. Let’s look at the key factors each solar water heater system must pay attention to:

1. Collector Area – Solar water heaters operate on solar energy and as such, it is required that enough energy is collected from the sun for the system to properly operate. Depending on the size of your home, you may need to have a larger collection area.

2. Storage – Much like a regular gas or electric water heater, you must also be aware of the size of your storage tank when shopping for a solar water heater. Typically, a small, 60 gallon, tank can sufficiently provide hot water for up to three people. As your family grows larger you must also look at tank sizes to match.

3. Climate – Finally, solar energy requires enough sun to be effective. In climates where you have shortened days or extensive cloudy periods, this system would not be as effective. That is why solar water heaters also operate on dual-systems, where a backup energy source will kick in if required.

Practical Benefits of Solar Water Heaters

Now that we’ve looked at three important aspects to a solar water heater, let’s look at a few practical benefits of the system.

1. Efficient – Not only are you going to reduce your carbon footprint, but you are also going to maximise every watt of spent energy. Solar water heaters are incredibly efficient.

2. Affordable – While solar water heaters have a higher cost of entry than conventional gas or electric systems, you can expect your utility bills to be cut in half. Over the long run, you will save money on your purchase.

3. Green – Solar energy is renewable and free. As long as the sun is there, so too is your hot water.

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems – The Basics
If you walk into your utility closet and find a heat pump water heater there you’ll know that you have a high quality system installed into your house. However, just knowing that it is high quality doesn’t mean you’ll understand why. Let’s break down the entire system so you can get a good understanding of what is going on beneath the surface.

Heat pump water heaters, like the Quantum Compact 200L, use an electric charge in order to take heat from one place and move it to another. This is different than a standard gas based water heater because instead of generating heat, a heat pump water heater is instead transferring it around. Imagine a refrigerator and how it operates. In a refrigerator the system is designed to pull heat from a box and expel it into the surrounding area. For a heat pump water heater, also commonly shortened to the acronym HPWH, heat from the surrounding air is pulled into the system in order to directly heat the water in the tank. In order to maximise the value of your heat pump water heater you will need to keep it in a room with a controlled temperature, at least above 4.4 degrees Celsius.

Benefits of a Heat Pump Hot Water System

Now that you are familiar with the heat pump hot water system we can take a closer look at the benefits of having one within your home. Despite how uncommon they appear to most customers, these systems actually offer a host of benefits that are worth the switch.

1. Efficiency – Instead of generating the heat directly, the HPWH will transfer heat via electricity. This makes the entire system two to three times more efficient than gas alternatives.

2. Price – Because these systems are so efficient, and they often come with different energy efficiency options, you can almost customise your expected utility bills.

With a heat pump hot water systems in your home or business you can take control of your utilities once and for all. Consult with a professional in order to learn more about the system and get a quote for installation.

What are symptoms of a failing water heater?

Did you know that the vast majority of water heater purchases are made when a home owner has theirs break down unexpectedly? It’s true! You’ll likely end up making one of those emergency purchases too unless you pay attention to the following symptoms.

1. Leaking – If you notice that there is moisture or even a small amount of water, around your water heater then you might have an actual fracture or leak. Metal expands when it heats up and this expansion can lead to stress fractures over time.

2. Rusty Water – If you ever get brownish, rusty water coming out of your faucet then you are likely running into a major issue. Rusty water doesn’t always mean a failing water heater, however. Run your faucet until you release about 5 gallons of water, if it begins to run clear then you have a pipe issue.

3. Noise – As water heaters get older you’ll find that sediment builds up toward the bottom of the tank. This leads to a banging and clanging sound that you’ll hear when your water heater first starts to heat up. This is a sign that your water heater is outliving its usefulness.

Why does a water heater break down?

Okay, we introduced you to a few symptoms that may mean your water heater is failing. Now let’s take a closer look at why your water heater might have broken down.

1. Internal Rust – Rust in your water heater can become a bigger problem than you’d expect if left untreated. There are sacrificial anodes within your water heater that help to prevent corrosion inside of your water heater. Over time these elements are consumed and if they are not replaced you’ll find rust begin to build up.

2. Sediment Buildup – We already mentioned sediment build up above, so we won’t go into it too much here. Basically, sediment builds up on the bottom of your water heater and if left alone will eventually destroy your utility. This is particularly problematic if you are dealing with hard water.

3. Age – Water heaters are only designed to last around 10 to 15 years. If you’ve surpassed this age then you are destined for a breakdown sooner than you think. Pay attention to the symptoms we listed above in order to keep ahead of the curve.

Finding a Reliable Hot Water System

Did you know that the majority of hot water systems sold to customers are for precisely the scenario that we listed above? Nobody wants to go shopping for a hot water system but they do it because they need to. Taking one cold shower is bad enough to never want to do it again. If you find yourself needing a hot water system replacement immediately then take a deep breath and focus on the following tips.

1. Consider fuel types.
The most efficient and affordable type of fuel is natural gas but for some Australian households, this type of energy may not be available. Most electric hot water systems are already being phased out from production because they are terrible for the environment, unreliable, and expensive. Solar energy is also an option for people who have it available.

2. Analyse water consumption.
If you live alone in a small home then your water consumption needs are going to be small. If you live in a home with four other adults then you are likely going to need something a little heftier. Solar assisted hot water systems are perfect for a small home. Larger hot water systems that run on natural gas are ideal for bigger homes. It’s all about tailoring the system to your needs.

3. Avoid buying the same model.
If your 15 year old hot water system worked you can just replace it with another 15 year old model of the same brand, right? Not exactly. When it comes to hot water systems there have been massive innovations and new regulations laid down over the years. Old systems are woefully inefficient and they are typically terrible for your electric/gas bill and equally bad for the environment.

4. Look at your space.
if you have a ton of room then installing a high end gas system is more realistic. If you are running in a smaller space then you can consider more economically packaged hot water systems.

Closing thoughts
No matter how you decide to remedy your hot water system issues make sure you consult with professionals and do your own research. You should also be aware of any government rebate programs for greener hot water system replacements.

Certain Hot Water Repairs Cannot Wait

While a malfunctioning thermostat on your hot water heater can wait for repairs during normal business hours, other issues such as a leak cannot wait and require emergency service. If you ignore leaks from a hot water heater, it can lead to damage to your house. Water can seep into sub-flooring and cause the wooden elements of it to swell and even start to decay. In addition, an old hot water heater can just stop functioning all together without notice. This calls for an immediate replacement.

Other Reasons Not to Wait on Hot Water Heater Repair

At times, the changeable weather in Sydney is a sufficient reason not to wait on repairing your hot water heater since you never know when you may need warm or hot water at your fingertips. On occasion, you may have guests staying at your house, and this is a terrible time to have the hot water heater malfunction. If it does, you will want and need an immediate solution.

We Service All Versions of Water Heaters with Our 24/7 Emergency Repair Services

Our company is adept at repairing or replacing all versions of hot water heaters. We will come solve your issues 24/7 all throughout the year in Sydney, Australia, since we understand that emergencies happen according to their own schedules. We do not want you to be inconvenienced any longer than necessary.

The Brands That We Offer to You

Another benefit when you turn to us for your 24-hour emergency hot water repair service is the fact that we offer the following quality brands when you require a replacement or a new hot water heater:

• Rheem
• Rinnai
• Dux
• Quantum

Browse through our website to learn additional information about our products, services and company. Also, keep our phone number in or near your phone for easy access when issues occur, regardless of the time of day or night. We guarantee quality products and workmanship with each call for help that we answer.