When a Bruce homeowner suddenly lost hot water over the weekend, she needed a fast response, and someone who could fix the issue properly the first time. Andre, your local plumber in Canberra arrived promptly, diagnosed the fault, replaced the failed parts, and had the system running again the same day.
⭐ “Andre from Water Tight Canberra was professional and friendly, completing the job earlier than expected. The service was outstanding.” — 5-Star Google Review
Problem
The homeowner reported that her electric hot water system had completely stopped working, no heat, no hot water, and a dead tank over a chilly Canberra morning.
With a unit showing no signs of life but still receiving full power, this was a clear case of element or thermostat failure. A faulty thermostat can leave the system cold or, worse, unsafe if it overheats without triggering the safety cutoff.
For properties like this Eden unit block in Bruce, timely hot water restoration is essential, especially with multiple occupants relying on a consistent supply. Left unresolved, the problem could have led to further electrical faults or pressure issues, turning a simple repair into a costly replacement.
Assessment
Andre arrived at the property during the scheduled 10AM–2PM window and began a comprehensive system inspection.
Using multimeter testing, he confirmed 240V supply to the system but no element continuity, a classic sign of a burnt-out element. He then tested the thermostat and found it non-responsive.
After verifying that the tank body and wiring were in good condition and the circuit was safe, Andre determined that both the heating element and thermostat required replacement.
This diagnostic approach avoided unnecessary hot water system replacement, saving the customer hundreds of dollars while ensuring the fix met AS/NZS 3500 and AS/NZS 3000 electrical safety standards.
How Our Plumber Belconnen Team Solved the Issue
With the problem confirmed, Andre proceeded with a fast, compliant repair:
- Isolated power to the hot water system for safety.
- Drained the tank below element level to access the internal components.
- Replaced the faulty 3.6kW element and universal thermostat with high-quality Performa components supplied through Reece Plumbing Mitchell.
- Refilled and purged the system, ensuring airlocks were removed.
- Restored power and tested the system through multiple heating cycles to confirm correct operation.
- Checked safety and relief valves — identifying one relief valve that will require future replacement, quoted separately for transparency.
The entire job was completed within a few hours, earlier than scheduled, ensuring minimal disruption to the homeowner’s day.
Materials & Standards
This repair used only manufacturer-approved components meeting Australian standards:
- Performa 3.6kW Bolt-On Copper Element – energy-efficient, corrosion-resistant, compliant with AS/NZS 60335.
- Performa Electric HWU Universal Thermostat – temperature-accurate control and full overheat protection.
All parts were supplied by Reece Plumbing Mitchell, and the installation was completed to AS/NZS 3500 (Plumbing and Drainage) and AS/NZS 3000 (Electrical Wiring Rules).
Andre ensured the tank casing, insulation, and wiring terminals were secure and compliant before recommissioning.
Results
Before: A completely cold electric hot water system, non-responsive despite live power at the unit.
After: Full hot water restored within hours, verified for temperature, pressure, and safety compliance.
The homeowner’s review says it all:
“Andre from Water Tight Canberra was professional and friendly, completing the job earlier than expected. The service was outstanding.”
Another reliable, on-time, and professional result from the Water Tight Canberra team.
Tips
To extend the life of your electric hot water system:
- Test and service elements and thermostats every 3–5 years.
- Replace your pressure and temperature relief valves every 5 years for safety.
- Have a licensed plumber or gasfitter inspect any signs of corrosion or electrical faults immediately.
Location Notes – Bruce ACT
Homes and units in Bruce often feature compact, wall-mounted or internally located electric hot water systems that require precise access and safety compliance.
Our plumber Belconnen team specialises in efficient, compliant hot water repairs across Bruce and the Belconnen region, from elements and thermostats to full replacements.
Whether you need an emergency plumber Canberra or thorough leak detection and blocked pipes, Water Tight Canberra provides fast, reliable solutions across the ACT. Contact us today on (02) 6195 9991.
Gallery
Before: Dead electric hot water system with no heating despite active power supply.
After: New Performa element and thermostat installed, tank refilled, and hot water restored.
⭐ “Professional, friendly, and earlier than expected – outstanding service.” — 5-Star Google Review
