Leaking Rheem hot water tank in Scullin Canberra before repair

When a homeowner in Scullin noticed issues with their Rheem hot water system, they called in the plumber Canberra team they could trust, Water Tight Canberra. Josh and his colleague attended promptly, delivering fast, efficient repairs that restored reliable hot water in no time.

“We were very satisfied with the service we received with the repair of our Rheem hot water tank. Josh and his colleague were friendly, helpful and efficient and completed the work quickly and well. We will certainly use Water Tight Canberra PL again whenever we have a plumbing need. Thank you.”


Problem

The homeowner’s Rheem 250L electric hot water system had begun leaking water from the temperature and pressure relief valve (TPRV), a common issue that can cause fluctuating temperatures, wasted water, and unnecessary energy use.

Hot water faults like this don’t just affect comfort; if left unchecked, they can increase electricity consumption and shorten the life of the tank. This property in Scullin had a well-installed unit from 2017, but after several years of Canberra’s hard-water conditions, the safety valve had worn out and required replacement.

Water Tight Canberra was called to supply and install a new, compliant valve to restore performance and ensure the continued safe operation of the system.


Assessment

Upon arrival, Josh carried out a thorough inspection of the Rheem hot water service and confirmed that the existing 600kPa TPR valve was no longer maintaining the correct pressure rating. The team noted mild water staining below the valve outlet, a sign of slow and continuous discharge.

Before proceeding, Josh tested the tank’s electrical components, isolation valve, and pressure settings to confirm the system was otherwise sound. Given the tank’s solid condition, the most cost-effective and compliant fix was to replace the worn valve with a new 1000kPa high-temperature relief valve, rated for Canberra’s standard mains pressure.


What Our Plumber in Belconnen Did

The Water Tight Canberra team partially drained the Rheem unit to safely remove the old relief valve. A Tomson HT55 15mm 1000kPa TPR valve was supplied and installed, sourced directly from Reece Plumbing in Belconnen.

Josh and his colleague carefully resealed all joints, pressure-tested the new connection, and checked that the discharge pipework was clear and directed safely away from the wall and paving. Once the valve was replaced, the system was refilled and reheated to operating temperature.

Final safety checks confirmed perfect function, no leaks, correct discharge flow, and consistent water temperature. The job was completed neatly, on time, and exactly as quoted.


Materials & Standards

All components used were Australian Standard (AS 3498) certified and approved for mains-pressure electric hot water systems. The Tomson HT55 valve carries a WaterMark certification, ensuring full compliance and safety under Canberra’s plumbing regulations.

The repair was carried out in line with AS/NZS 3500 Plumbing and Drainage standards, and the new valve was rated to withstand local supply pressures of up to 1000kPa.

By replacing the worn component with the correct high-quality part, Water Tight Canberra ensured long-term reliability and safety for the homeowner’s hot water service.


Results

Before: Continuous dripping from the hot water valve and temperature fluctuations.
After: A brand-new 1000kPa TPR valve fitted, pressure stabilised, and no further leaks detected.

The homeowner was thrilled with the professionalism and efficiency of the work, leaving this glowing 5-star review:

“We were very satisfied with the service we received with the repair of our Rheem hot water tank. Josh and his colleague were friendly, helpful and efficient and completed the work quickly and well.”

Another reliable, compliant, and neatly executed repair, exactly what Water Tight Canberra is known for.


Tips

To keep your hot water system in top condition, operate the relief valve every six months to clear sediment buildup and prevent sticking. If water continues to drip afterwards, it’s time to have it replaced by a licensed hot water plumber in Canberra.


Location NotesPlumber Belconnen

Scullin homes often feature older brick constructions with external hot water systems exposed to Canberra’s cold winters. Regular maintenance is key; valves, insulation, and drainage should all be checked annually to prevent premature wear.

For fast, reliable service for electric hot water system installations and repairs, or drain cleaning in Canberra, contact your local plumber Belconnen at Water Tight Canberra on (02) 6195 9991 today.


Before: Leaking 600kPa relief valve on Rheem 250L tank.
After: New 1000kPa TPR valve installed, tested, and fully compliant.

“We were very satisfied with the service we received with the repair of our Rheem hot water tank… Josh and his colleague were friendly, helpful and efficient.”

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