Hot Water Systems Capalaba
Hot water repairs and replacements in Capalaba, matched to how your power is charged. Electric, gas and heat pump systems, with the old unit removed when we replace it.
Tariff 31, Tariff 33 and your hot water
Energex says water heating is around a quarter of the electricity used in a Queensland home. That’s why so many electric hot water systems in Capalaba run on an economy tariff: a cheaper rate in exchange for power that’s only on at certain times.
There are two. Tariff 31, also sold as Super Economy, Night Rate or Controlled Load 1, gives at least 8 hours of supply a day. Tariff 33, also called Economy or Controlled Load 2, gives at least 16. If your bill has a separate line for either, your hot water is probably on one.
Energex changes the timing to suit the network. As more homes have rooftop solar, it has been shifting economy supply towards the middle of the day to soak up solar power, which means supply is typically cut during the morning peak and switched back on around midday. If your tank only just got through before, a change in timing can be the first sign that it’s too small.
When the hot water runs out before the power comes back
On Tariff 31 the tank has fewer hours to reheat, so it has to hold enough hot water to get you through until supply returns. Your Home says electric storage systems over 250 litres suit off-peak heating, and smaller ones generally don’t. Energex adds that your retailer can tell you the minimum tank size for an economy tariff.
Not every system can go on an economy tariff. Electric instantaneous units can’t, because they have no tank to store water while the power is off. Heat pumps store water like an electric tank, so they can replace one in the same spot.
The wiring side is an electrician’s job: an economy tariff needs a dedicated circuit back to the meter, and sometimes a separate meter. Our side is the water heater itself. We repair it, or replace it with a unit sized for the hours it will actually get power, and lodge the QBCC Form 4 for a new installation.
Energex recommends setting the thermostat to 60°C. That’s also the minimum Queensland requires for storage, to stop Legionella. We work under QBCC licence 15504687 and gas licence L90908.
Frequently asked questions
Can’t see your question? Call us and we’ll talk it through.
Call 0418 871 269Why does my hot water run out in the afternoon in Capalaba?
If you’re on Tariff 31, the tank may only heat for 8 or so hours, and the timing can change. If you regularly run out, the tank may be too small for that tariff, or the element or thermostat may be failing. We can test it and tell you which.
How do I know if my hot water is on Tariff 31 or 33?
Check your power bill for charges listed separately from your main tariff, such as Super Economy Tariff 31 or Economy Tariff 33. Your retailer may use a different name. If it’s not clear, ask your retailer.
Is Tariff 33 better than Tariff 31 for hot water?
Tariff 33 gives at least 16 hours of supply instead of 8, so a smaller tank is less likely to run out. Which is cheaper overall depends on your retailer’s rates, so compare the two on your own bill.
Can a heat pump go on an economy tariff?
Heat pumps store hot water in a tank like an electric system and often fit in the same space. Check the tank size and the manufacturer’s requirements with us before you change tariffs, and get an electrician to do the wiring.
Do you fix electric hot water systems that have stopped heating?
Yes. We repair and service electric, gas and heat pump units, and carry out emergency hot water repairs 24/7.
Hot water in nearby areas
Not listed? We probably still cover your area, so give us a call.
Hot water running out in Capalaba? Call 0418 871 269 for repairs or a better-sized replacement.
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