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Is Your Hot Water System Due for Replacement?
Spot the warning signs early, understand how a replacement day actually runs, and know what to expect from your Plum installation — from first call to hot water flowing.
- Same-day replacements for urgent failures
- Fixed, upfront quotes with no surprises
- Old unit removal & disposal included
- 6-year workmanship warranty
Symptom Triage — How Urgent Is It?
Match what you are seeing to one of these three columns to gauge how quickly you should act.
Replace Now
- Water actively leaking from the tank
- Visible cracks or structural damage
- Rusty or brown water from hot taps
- Smell of gas near the unit (gas systems)
- System will not heat at all
Plan a Replacement
- System is 10+ years old
- Frequent breakdowns or repeat repairs
- Loud rumbling or banging noises
- Water not reaching full temperature
- Rust visible on tank or pipes
- Sediment or grit at the bottom of the tank
Service & Monitor
- Slight temperature inconsistency
- Minor dripping from pressure valve
- Higher-than-usual energy bills
- Occasional lukewarm water
Typical Lifespan by System Type
What Happens on Replacement Day
Typical duration is 4–6 hours for a like-for-like swap; switching fuel types may take a full day.
Assessment & Shut-off
We inspect the old system and safely turn off the water and power or gas supply.
Old System Removal
The tank is drained, disconnected and removed — disposal is usually included.
New System Installation
New unit fitted with plumbing and electrical/gas connections. Switching fuel types adds time for new lines.
Testing & Commission
Tested for leaks, pressure checked and thermostat set. Continuous flow runs hot in minutes; storage needs 1–2 hrs.
Before the Plumber Arrives
What Makes a Job More Complex
Keep It Running — Maintenance Schedule
Check for visible leaks, rust or dripping valves
Flush sediment from the tank, test the pressure-relief valve
Professional service — inspect anode rod, thermostat, connections
Fix dripping taps & running toilets — they waste hot water too
Common Questions
No. Australian law requires a licensed plumber (and gas fitter for gas units) for all hot water installations.
Most same-day replacements take 4–6 hours. Continuous flow units heat immediately; storage tanks need 1–2 hours to fill and heat.
Yes — we can recommend the right capacity for your household. Larger tanks cost a little more and need more space.
We remove and responsibly dispose of the old system as part of the job — included in your Plum quote.
Yes — Victorian VEU rebates apply to eligible heat pump upgrades, and federal STCs apply to solar and heat pump installs.
Yes — changing from gas to electric (or vice versa) needs new lines and connections, which adds time and cost.
