The Problem
A homeowner in Swan View contacted Swan’s Professional Plumbing after their storage hot water system failed and began leaking.
Rather than automatically replacing it with another storage tank, we provided the homeowner with two options: install a similar storage system or convert to a continuous flow hot water system.
The homeowner chose to switch to a Thermann 26L continuous flow system, which heats water on demand instead of storing heated water in a tank.
Our Solution
Changing from storage to continuous flow required more work than a standard hot water system replacement.
A continuous flow unit needs a greater gas supply because it must heat water quickly whenever a tap is opened. The existing gas line had been designed for a storage system that heats water gradually and could not provide the required gas flow for the new unit.
To complete the conversion correctly, we:
- Decommissioned the failed storage hot water system
- Removed the old unit
- Installed the Thermann 26L continuous flow system
- Upgraded the gas supply with a new 32mm gas line from the first branch
- Arranged installation of a new power point
- Connected the required water and gas pipework
- Commissioned and tested the new system
The gas line upgrade was an essential part of the installation. Without sufficient gas flow, the new continuous flow system would not operate as designed.
The Result
The homeowner’s leaking storage unit was removed and replaced with a properly supplied and commissioned continuous flow hot water system.
The total cost of the installation was $7,068.60 including GST.
While that is considerably more than a straightforward storage tank replacement, the price reflects the infrastructure required to change hot water system types, particularly the substantial gas line upgrade and new electrical connection.
This Swan View job shows why the price of a continuous flow hot water system installation depends on more than the cost of the unit itself.
Considering Changing Your Hot Water System Type?
If your existing hot water system needs replacing, you do not necessarily have to stick with the same type.
Swan’s Professional Plumbing can compare your replacement options and check whether the existing gas supply, electrical connection and pipework are suitable before you make a decision.
That means you know what the complete installation involves and what it will cost before the job begins.
