Hot Water Cylinder Replacement & Installation in Wellington

The most common sign that a hot water cylinder is failing is water leaking from the base of the unit. However, there are several other key indicators to watch for.

Look out for these warning signs:

• Leaking Water: Any pooling of water around the cylinder is a critical sign it needs immediate attention.

• Inconsistent Hot Water: If your water isn't getting as hot as it used to or runs out quickly.

• Discoloured or Rusty Water: Brown or rusty water coming from your hot taps indicates corrosion inside the tank.

• Strange Noises: Banging, popping, or sizzling sounds can mean sediment buildup is causing the element to overheat or the unit to fail.

If you notice any of these signs, get in touch with us, and we can help.

A standard, like-for-like hot water cylinder replacement typically takes between 3 to 5 hours to complete. This allows for a professional and safe installation process from start to finish.

The installation process includes:

• Draining the old cylinder and safely removing it.

• Positioning and securing the new cylinder.

• Connecting all plumbing and electrical systems.

• Testing the new unit to ensure it is operating correctly and safely.

Installations requiring significant plumbing changes, such as an upgrade to mains pressure, may take longer.

To get started, simply contact us.

For most homeowners in Wellington, yes, upgrading to a mains pressure system is highly recommended and one of the most significant improvements you can make to your home's plumbing. The difference in daily use is substantial.

The key benefits of upgrading to mains pressure include:

• Strong, Consistent Water Pressure: Enjoy powerful showers and taps that don't lose pressure when another is used.

• Faster Hot Water Delivery: Mains pressure systems can deliver hot water more quickly to your taps.

• Compatibility with Modern Taps: Works effectively with modern mixer taps and shower heads.

• Increases Property Value: It's a desirable feature for potential home buyers.

We can assess your home's existing pipework to confirm its suitability for a mains pressure upgrade.

Contact us to get started.

The right size hot water cylinder depends primarily on the number of people in your household and your daily hot water usage habits. Choosing the correct size prevents you from running out of hot water or wasting money heating water you don't use.

Here is a general guide for a typical Wellington family:

• 1-2 People: 135 Litres

• 2-3 People: 180 Litres (the most common size in NZ)

• 4-5 People: 250 Litres

• 5+ People: 300 Litres or more

Consider a larger size if your family uses multiple showers at the same time, uses a lot of hot water for laundry, or has a large bath. We can help you calculate the perfect size for your needs, just get in touch.

In 2025, the cost to replace a standard 180L hot water cylinder in Wellington typically ranges from $2,500 to $4,500. The final price depends on several key factors.

The total cost includes the new cylinder, all necessary parts like valves, and the labour from a certified plumber. Factors that influence the final price include:

• Cylinder Type: Mains pressure cylinders cost more than low-pressure models.

• Size: Larger cylinders (e.g., 250L or 300L) have a higher unit cost.

• Accessibility: Installations in tight cupboards or difficult-to-access areas may require more labour.

• Plumbing Upgrades: If you are upgrading from low to mains pressure, additional pipework and valve changes are required.

For a fixed, detailed quote based on your specific needs, get in touch with us.

If your hot water runs cold unexpectedly or doesn't last as long as it should, it typically points to a problem with your cylinder's heating ability. This is often caused by a faulty component or a simple issue with the power supply.

Here are the most common reasons your hot water is running cold:

• Faulty Element or Thermostat: These are the most frequent culprits inside an electric cylinder. The thermostat acts as the brain, telling the heating element (the muscle) when to heat the water. If either of these parts fails, your water simply won't heat up correctly.

• No Power Supply: The cylinder may have lost power. Before calling for service, check your switchboard to ensure the circuit breaker for the hot water hasn't tripped. If it continues to trip, it indicates an electrical fault that needs professional diagnosis.

• Malfunctioning Tempering Valve: This essential safety valve mixes hot and cold water to deliver it to your taps at a safe, consistent temperature. If the valve fails, it can let too much cold water through, making your hot water feel lukewarm.

• High Recent Usage: A standard hot water cylinder holds a finite amount of hot water. If your household has just used a large amount (e.g., through back-to-back showers or running the dishwasher), the cylinder will need time—often 2-3 hours—to fully reheat the new cold water in the tank.

• Incorrect Tap Mixers: In some homes, certain modern tap mixers are not fully compatible with older, low-pressure hot water systems. This can cause poor mixing of hot and cold water at the tap, resulting in a lukewarm flow.

If you've checked your power supply and are still facing issues, contact our team for a professional diagnosis and fast repair.