Blog - Page 13 of 45 - Hot Water Cylinders NZ

Posted on January 16, 2020August 3, 2022 by SiteAtion

Flexible Sacrificial Anodes: The Future of Water Heating Technology

Would you spend 449 including GST to increase your hot water cylinders lifespan by 10 years?

Of course!

Imagine living in a place filled with a light cool breeze during the day, and freezing temperatures during the night. Turning on the faucets and having warm or hot water for baths, showers, washing, and whatnots is a complete comfort – the epitome and pinnacle of rest and relaxation.

In New Zealand, this isn’t an uncommon occurrence. For a country far from the sun’s rays on the equator New Zealand is definitely a cool place, abundant of rainfall and glaciers. Temperatures in New Zealand go from 10 degrees centigrade down south, and 16 degrees centigrade up north. Throughout the year, temperatures change ever so slightly!

A specific type of tank-type water heater is the Hot Water Cylinder, that uses supply water pressure and delivers hot water to showers and taps. As this type of system does not use a cold-water storage tank, it is designed for small spaces and sometimes limited access. Hot Water Cylinders are enclosed with safety mechanisms that include relief valves, thermostats, and somtimes expansion vessels.

Why You Need A Sacrificial Anode

The problem with this type of heating system is that it does not last very long at the constant pressure and heat changes it faces. That is where a sacrificial anode comes to place. This replaceable component helps maintain and control the rate of corrosion there is in the tank and is present in every water heating system. Sacrificial anodes are often made out of magnesium and attracts all corrosive elements to prevent metal breakdown.

In the span of 10 years, these anodes become very corrosive and will degrade, contributing to the damage of the heating system itself. What many people don’t know is that this anode can easily be replaced, expanding its life to over 20 years, and getting the bang out of your buck.

It should be noted that only steel hot water storage needs a sacrificial anode. It becomes a secondary type of protection to the steel in any hot water tank. Because anode rods are created using less sturdy metals than steel, the node fends off attack from minerals and other materials in your water. This is why anodes are called sacrificial.

Another thing that many people don’t know is that sacrificial anodes must be replaced every 5 years to get over 20 years of use from the hot water cylinder! The real problem now is replacing the anode in a really small, tight, and cramped place such as the hot water cupboard. Replacing this over 1 meter long component needs wide space and it should not be removed or disconnected in the cylinder, which is terribly a huge cost.

Why Use the Flexible Sacrificial Anode?

This is where the Flexible Sacrificial Anode comes into light! This type of sacrificial anode eliminates several other challenges when it comes to replacing the anode. There will no longer be a need to drain and remove the cylinders, and you will no longer have to put a hole above your ceiling for access!

This anode needs less than 250 millimeters of clearance and is very time efficient as it can be installed in an hour. Upgrading your sacrificial anode to a flexible sacrificial anode is the best choice to make, because expanding the life span if your hot water cylinder outweighs the costs of buying a new one every few years.

Where to Buy Flexible Sacrificial Anodes

Buying flexible hot water cylinder sacrificial anodes are no longer a hassle in the country. Companies like Rheem, a New Zealand staple since 1958, sell products that are at the leading edge of hot water heating technology that benefits not only residential areas, but also the commercialized areas of the country.

Hot Water Cylinders NZ invests in innovation and technology to improve your experience with hot water systems here in New Zealand. Our latest innovation allows you to replace your existing Anode without having to dismantle your whole water cylinder installation. Becuase conventional Rods are very long it is almost impossible to replace without disconnecting the entire cylinder and its pipework enabling this physically. A flexible anode makes this possible and avoids these costs. Without much hassle our technicians will remove the degraded Rod and easily replace is with a flexible model keeping the hot water cylinder in its place which provides the same protection at a much lower installation cost.

Learn more about how to upgrade your sacrificial anode when replacing a hot water cylinder here.

Posted on November 20, 2019August 3, 2022 by SiteAtion

Is Your Hot Water Cylinder Leaking? Here are 7 Possible Causes

Leaks are never planned and when they happen, the timing is always bad!

This guide will help you identify where the leak may be coming from and what could have caused your hot water cylinder leak.

Whether you use Hot Water Cylinders NZ to do the repair or not, by asking the right questions and/or providing the right information, you will save hundreds if not thousands in repairs or replacement depending on system type and size.

Cause #1: Damage Caused by External Forces

External damage may cause a leak within the hot water system. If your hot water cylinder is relatively new (7 years or less) then the probability of a leak resulting from wear and tear is low.

Some questions you may want to ask yourself are:

Have any works taken place on my property? This includes any renovation works etc.
Have I repaired or replaced a plumbing fixture? This includes minor upgrades such as replacing a tap to larger upgrades such as replacing a shower. Often such upgrades can result in leaks to your hot water system. Our specialists will quickly be able to investigate through a process of elimination to determine the cause.
Has local Council done any upgrades? Watercare can often upgrade public watermains introducing more pressure onto a private property. This added pressure may spring a leak within the hot water system.
Is your hot water cupboard often used for storage or drying laundry? It may well be that pipework has been knocked resulting in a loose connection. If this is the case, please don’t attempt to repair this yourself. You may risk the pressure blowing the fitting off which will become very difficult to isolate and will cause flooding.

The good news is that most hot water cylinder leaks can be repaired, keeping your cost low. Time is often of the essence. If you quickly identify or suspect one of the above external forces to be the likely cause, please let us know at time of booking.

Cause #2: Recent Electrical Repairs or Element Replacement

When the immersion element is damaged due to age, electrical failure or otherwise, an electrician or Limited Electrical License holder such as a plumber will need to replace the element and/or the thermostat.

When this occurs you need to be aware of several things:

Your tank has been under pressure for a long time. This pressure has been consistent but when the element is replaced the tank will “decompress” which results in the movement of all components internally, including the welded seem. Often, cylinders that have had no issues prior to this decompression will start to leak once the cylinder undergoes repressurisation. This expansion and contraction is more than enough to crack a welded seam under certain circumstances.

We always advise consumers to think carefully about an investment that could require a full replacement a few months later. Often it’s better to make this investment into a new hot water cylinder system than into a repair that represents a third of the total cost. View our “*Is Your Hot Water Cylinder Leaking?” section for more info.
Once the element is replaced, if you find a leak in the vicinity of the element, then the element seals have not been installed properly or could be faulty. This information comes in handy if you recently had your element replaced and have spotted a leak.
Always make sure that your contactor replaces the element with an equal wattage e.g 2kW should be replaced with 2kW and not the more common 3 kW. 3kW elements are cheaper to purchase and corners could be cut which may end up costing you more. A higher kW rating means more load on your existing wiring and HWC which again due to age may fail.

Cause #3: Safety Valves May Be Operating

We have some great information about cold water expansion valves. Here are a couple of resources:

Cause #4: Vacuum Relief Valves or Open Vents may be Overflowing

If you possess a Low Pressure Hot Water Cylinder then your installation will either include a vacuum relief valve or an open vent.

Cause #5: Age of Your Hot Water Cylinder

If your hot water cylinder is ageing and has sprung a leak, our recommendation is that you save any money you intended to spend on an investigation or repair. Having completed over 5,000 installations to date, our records show that 2 out of 10 repaired hot water cylinders end up being replaced within 3 months of the repair. This of course will depend on the fault, cylinder & environment, but in most cases a plumbing company will charge a fee to investigate and/or attempt a repair if you’re agreeable. It’s best to make sure that you will not be charged before they despatch a technician.

TAKE NOTE: To attempt to repair a cylinder of this age including replacement of the element may result in unintended additional damage. Element threads are often seized and too much force will crack the internal tank. Low pressure hot water cylinders are often made of copper which is a relatively soft material. It will not take much force to cause a leak.

Cause #6: Watercare & Council Watermain Upgrades

If road works are visible from your home, then there is a high chance your home is affected. Particularly if you notice a leak during or after these works are complete and you didn’t have the necessary protection in place such as a pressure reducing or limiting valve which regulates your incoming pressure.

An increase of pressure may result in:

Safety valves suddenly discharging water
Open vents overflowing
Burst hot water cylinders

To add to the strain, often debris will find its way into households causing other issues such as hot water fluctuation or blockages on valves such as toilet inlet vales and hot water system valves. If you intend to install a pressure reducing valve, it is highly recommended you also install a strainer which will isolate any unintended debris from entering your home.

If you would like more information about Watercare compensation for watermain leaks and processes, please visit the following article: Watermain Leaking? Here is What You Can Do.

Cause #7: Dissimilar Metals & A Failed Sacrificial Anode

Every steel hot water cylinder contains a specialised Hot Water Cylinder Sacrificial Anode. Over time they break down so your hot water cylinder doesn’t. But what happens when are fully broken down? What will protect your hot water cylinder?

Whilst this is one of the causes a cylinder may leak, you may ask your, “well isn’t it a bit late once my cylinder is leaking?” You are absolutely right! This information won’t help if your cylinder is leaking but it will provide you with some knowledge around why it may be and what you can do to prevent it from happening again.

For other faults such as electrical faults or no hot water at all, please visit the following resources:

The above is a short list of causes that apply more than others. We also come across dozens of isolated causes which we have not included due to their rarity.

If you are unsure what may have caused a fault on your hot water cylinder, why not give us a quick call and speak to our highly qualified hot water cylinder specialists?

In many cases we can identify the fault over the phone at no cost to you. Alternatively, in 80% of all cases, we are able to identify the fault over the phone and immediately advise of repair and/or replacement costs. Hot Water Cylinders are New Zealand’s #1 hot water specialists and are ready to assist 24/7.

Posted on October 9, 2019August 3, 2022 by SiteAtion

Why Choose the Rheem Stellar?

Rheem is considered to be one of the most trusted names in New Zealand when it comes to water heaters. Even in the early days, they have provided the latest in water heating technology and have thus branched out to other products, as well as catering to both the residential and commercial markets. For the home, Rheem has introduced several products, such as the Gas Continuous Flow Water Heater, the Indoor Gas Storage, and lastly the outdoor gas storage.

Outdoor Gas Storage

For the Outdoor Gas Storage, the Rheem Stellar is now considered to be the most efficient gas storage water heater available in New Zealand. In fact, it is even known as the “king” of gas water heaters designed for outdoor installation.

It boasts of a high flow rate ability delivering up to 40 litres of water per minute that is why this makes it ideal for homes with numerous bathrooms, high delivery tap ware, massage showers, and homes with high hot water consumption. Another reason why this product is considered as one of the best is that has no electrical connections therefore making it still work in cases when power breaks down. Also, what is reassuring to the client is that it has a 10-year warranty.

Two Model Types of the Rheem Stellar Gas Water Heater:

Model	Approx. Storage Capacity (Litres)	# People in Moderate Climate	# People in Cold Climate	Installation Location	Gas Type
Stellar 850330NOZ	130	2-5	2-4	Outdoor	Natural
Stellar 850360NOZ	160	3-6	3-5	Outdoor	Natural

Model	Stellar 850330NOZ	Stellar 850360NOZ
Approx. Storage Capacity (Litres)	130	160
# People in Moderate Climate	2-5	3-6
# People in Cold Climate	2-4	3-5
Installation Location	Outdoor	Outdoor
Gas Type	Natural	Natural

Both Rheem Stellar models are available in natural gas only and also for outdoor installation. Because of its mains pressure, it can power many taps at one time. The Stellar 850330NAZ has a 130L capacity and has a superior 200L per hour hot water recovery while the Stellar 850360NAZ has a 160L capacity and a 175L per hour hot water recovery. Not only does the Stellar have finer qualities, it also has a modern styling that blends well with the external home environment. Both have the Stellar SuperFlue which increases efficiency and performance.
Pros and Cons of a Rheem Stellar

Pros of Rheem Stellar:

• A gas water heater has faster heating compared to electric models. An electric heater takes at least an hour to heat up 25 gallons of water whereas a gas heater can heat up a 50-gallon tank. This is important if you have a large family because of the high demands for hot water.
• Another advantage of using a gas water heater is that it has potentially lower cost. Although electric heaters are more energy efficient compared to gas heaters but gas heaters make up the cost by having electricity cost more than a natural gas in some places.
• Gas heaters can still work even if there’s a blackout. Since gas heaters do not have any electric connections, this make them work even in cases of power outages.
• The Rheem Stellar is specifically designed as a direct replacement if you have a Vulcan Freeloader.
• Another important thing to note if you are using or going to use the Rheem Stellar is that, you do not have to have space indoors since this is for outdoor use.
• It is also for mains or high pressure.
• If you are using a big overhead shower or a rain-head the Rheem Stellar can still deliver enough water for you.
• For a large family, having multiple bathrooms is a must so using this product is essential since it delivers at least 40 litres of water per minute.
Cons of Rheem Stellar:

• Gas water heaters can cost a bit higher as compared to an electric heater upfront and in its maintenance and installation but in the long run, you can then make up for your expenses.
• This has a shorter life span compared to an electric water heater. Electric water heaters can last up to 13-14 years compared to a gas water heater which can only last up to 13 years.
• It has a more difficult installation process because it includes a ventilation system. If your home has no gas line or has no previous gas heater, pipes or a gas line may need to be installed.
• If there is only the two of you in the household then using the Rheem Stellar may not be the best option for you. A lot of energy is used to heat up large amount of water and your consumption is low therefore it would not be advisable to have this installed in your home.
• It is started or controlled by a pilot light which means if this goes out, you may have issues turning on your water heater.
• The Rheem Stellar is designed for large consumption of hot water; it could take up a lot of outdoor space. This could be a problem if this is located in an access way or something similar.
• Rheem Stellars can take up high amount of gas consumption. If your area has a high cost for natural gases then this could be an issue for you.
• If the whole family shower at the same time, the Rheem Stellar may not be able to answer to the demand since it does not supply endless amount of hot water.
• If you are out to work or on a holiday, the Rheem Stellar could still be consuming gas.
• Lastly, this is not available for use in LPG.
You must take into consideration that at least a quarter of your energy costs goes to heating that is why, you have to make sure that you are making the right decision when choosing the best water heater for your family. Operational expenses are not the only factor that you have to consider, you must consider also the upfront cost and the maintenance cost as well.
Rheem Stellar Stainless Steel Electric Water Heater

There are now two available Rheem Stellar models, which is the gas and then introducing the electric water heater. The stainless steel water heater is at least 40% lighter compared to the vitreous enamel which makes it easier for plumbers to handle, transport and then do the installation. It is also aesthetically pleasing being it is in a modern design as well as offering durability. The key features of the Rheem Stellar Electric are:
• It has superior energy efficiency which gives it a lower energy cost compared to other conventional electric water heaters.
• It has a better performance of 12-24% against the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS).
• Available in a wide range of sizes such as: 80L, 125L, 160L, 250L and 315L
• If you are located in an area where there are economical off peak tariffs then the 160L model and up is the one suitable for you.
• Long term maintenance costs and services are reduced since the Rheem Stellar electric heater does not require a sacrificial anode for protection.
• It has a 75°C maximum thermostat setting which is higher compared to other products.
• This product also has a 10-year cylinder warranty
Rheem Stellar Gas 330 Stainless Steel

• It has a reduced energy costs with 5 Star energy efficiency rating.
• Its hot water capacity is up to 390L in the first hour.
• The Rheem Stellar has better recovery when hot water is needed since it has 185L of mains pressure of hot water recovery every hour and an additional 50L additional recovery through the inbuilt user-adjustable mixing valve.
• Because of its mains pressure the Rheem Stellar Gas can accommodate the needs of a large family.
• Just like the Rheem Stellar Electric, maintenance and services are reduces since it does not need a sacrificial anode for protection.
• It also has a 10-year cylinder warranty.
• Replacing a Vulcan Freeloader:
• If you have an existing Vulcan freeloader and its causing you trouble and needs replacing you will be pleased to hear that by replacing it with a Rheem Stellar, you are practically replacing it “like for like”. Only a small modification needs to made to the gas pipework (more from one side to other) which is straight forward. Other than that, the location and all plumbing can be reused to install the Rheem Stellar.
• Checkout our Vulcan to Rheem Stellar replacement special here.