When a local Latham homeowner noticed a gas smell around an ageing Aquamax water heater, they did the right thing: they called in the expert plumber Canberra locals rely on. Within days, our team had diagnosed the issue, replaced the unsafe system, and delivered a seamless upgrade to a Rheem 170-litre 4-star gas hot water system, fully compliant and warranty-backed.
⭐ “Great service and made everything sound so easy. I needed a new gas-water heater tank installed and Brayden at Water Tight explained all the viable options, before installing it fast and quick. Thanks!” — 5-Star Google Review
Problem
The existing Aquamax gas hot water system, more than a decade old, had started leaking gas while in operation, a serious safety and efficiency concern. Not only was the gas odour alarming, but the system’s age meant it no longer met modern safety or efficiency standards.
A failing gas water heater poses both fire and carbon monoxide risks, particularly in older Canberra homes where units are often installed close to living areas. Beyond safety, the homeowner faced rising gas bills and unreliable hot water, not ideal as autumn approached.
If left unattended, the leak could have escalated to a full system failure or a dangerous gas incident. That’s why the call came through promptly, and Brayden from Water Tight Canberra was dispatched the same day to assess the gas fitting situation.
Assessment
On arrival, Brayden conducted a full gas soundness test in accordance with AS/NZS 5601 Gas Installations, confirming the presence of a leak at the water heater’s gas control valve. The tank itself was nearing the end of its service life and was no longer viable for repair.
Using our CCTV and diagnostic inspection process, we verified that the rest of the gas supply system was sound, isolating the problem to the appliance only.
As part of our transparent service approach, Brayden provided three clear replacement options, including both gas and electric hot water systems. We handle every brand and system type. After explaining each in plain terms, performance, warranty, and long-term operating costs, the homeowner selected the Rheem 170L 4-Star external gas storage unit, offering fast recovery, improved efficiency, and a solid 10-year cylinder warranty.
How Our Plumber Belconnen Team Solved the Issue
Once approval was confirmed, our team organised materials through Southern Plumbing Supplies, including the Rheem 170L gas unit, copper pipework, Ezipress fittings, and a full 15mm tempering, duo, and pressure-reduction valve set.
On installation day, Brayden and his apprentice arrived at Latham on schedule. The process included:
- Isolating gas and water supplies safely.
- Draining and removing the old Aquamax unit.
- Installing the new Rheem 4-Star natural gas storage system.
- Replacing all critical valves to meet AS 4032.2 temperature control and AS/NZS 3500 plumbing compliance.
- Conducting full gas pressure testing and system commissioning.
- Completing the clean-up and safe disposal of the old tank.
The work was completed in a single day, minimising disruption to the homeowner’s routine. Brayden also walked them through system operation and maintenance steps, leaving the property with reliable hot water that night.
Materials & Standards
This job used high-grade, warranty-approved fittings and materials:
- Rheem 170L 4-Star External Gas HWS (Natural Gas) – 10-year tank warranty
- Rye Metal Tempering & Duo Valves – AS 4032.2 compliant
- Ezipress fittings and copper pipework – corrosion-resistant, long-life performance
- Pressure Reduction Valve – ensuring balanced water pressure and extended system life
Every connection was tested against AS/NZS 5601 (Gas) and AS/NZS 3500 (Plumbing and Drainage). We only install equipment that meets or exceeds Australian Standards and manufacturer specifications, ensuring performance, safety, and warranty protection.
Results
Before: a leaking, inefficient Aquamax gas system with a persistent gas odour and inconsistent heating.
After: a brand-new Rheem 4-Star unit providing steady hot water, faster heat recovery, and significantly improved gas efficiency.
The system operates quietly and reliably, and the new valve set provides long-term protection from pressure or temperature faults.
The 5-star Google review summed it up best:
“Great service and made everything sound so easy. I needed a new gas-water heater tank installed and Brayden at Water Tight explained all the viable options, before installing it fast and quick.”
Tips
To keep your gas hot water system running efficiently:
- Have it serviced every two years by a licensed gasfitter.
- Check for rust, leaks, or odours regularly.
- Test your tempering valve annually to maintain safe outlet temperatures.
Location Notes – Latham ACT
Homes in Latham often feature older copper and galvanised water lines, making pressure regulation critical during system replacements. Gas leaks are also more common in ageing installations due to material fatigue.
Our plumber Belconnen team services Latham and the broader Belconnen area, specialising in compliant upgrades and safety-focused gas work.
For fast, reliable service in the ACT, contact Water Tight Canberra today on (02) 6195 9991 for plumbing services, including blocked drains Canberra, or emergency plumbing services.
Gallery
Before: Ageing Aquamax gas tank with visible corrosion and gas smell detected.
After: Rheem 170L 4-Star natural gas system installed with new valve set and copper reticulation — fully compliant and commissioned.
⭐ “Great service and made everything sound so easy…” — 5-Star Google Review
