Gas hot water repairs and replacement
Pilot won't stay lit, the unit clicks but never fires, or the tank has started to weep? From our workshop in Matraville, our licensed gasfitters and plumbers repair and replace gas storage and continuous flow systems throughout the southern Eastern Suburbs. You'll hear the options first and agree on a fixed price before we pick up a tool.
Signs your gas hot water needs attention
Pilot light keeps going out
On a gas storage tank, a pilot that won't stay alight often points to a worn thermocouple, a dirty pilot assembly or a draught around the burner. It's a common fault and usually fixable.
Ignition clicks but no flame
Continuous flow units rely on electronic ignition. Repeated clicking without lighting can mean a gas supply issue, a faulty igniter or a problem with the unit's controls.
Flue scorching or soot marks
Black marks, melted plastic near the flue or a strange smell when the burner runs suggest the unit isn't burning cleanly or venting properly. Turn it off and have it inspected.
Water leaking from the tank
Moisture around a storage tank can come from a valve or fitting, which we can replace. If the tank body itself is leaking, the unit has reached the end of its life.
Gas safety comes first
Gas appliances need to be worked on by a licensed gasfitter. Please don't try to dismantle a burner, adjust gas pressure or reseal a flue yourself. Our team holds the licences to diagnose, repair and install gas hot water safely, and we test every connection before we leave.
If you smell gas:
- Turn off the gas at the meter
- Open doors and windows
- Get everyone outside
- Don't use light switches, phones near the leak, or any flame
- Call a licensed gasfitter, such as our team on 0401 758 373
What a gas hot water repair involves
On storage tanks we commonly replace thermocouples, pilot assemblies, gas controls, relief valves and anodes. On continuous flow units we look at ignition, flame sensing, water flow sensors and the gas supply reaching the unit. We also check that the flue is clear and that the appliance is burning cleanly.
Once the fault is found, you get a straightforward explanation, the choices available and a fixed price. If a part makes sense, we fit it. If the unit is old or the tank has failed, we'll say so and help you plan a replacement instead.
Choosing a replacement gas system
Most homes come down to two gas options:
- Gas storage tank. Keeps a supply of hot water ready to go. Often fitted outdoors, and a familiar like-for-like swap for an existing tank.
- Gas continuous flow. Heats on demand, so you won't run out during back-to-back showers. These units are compact and mount on an outside wall.
A continuous flow unit can need more gas than an old tank, so we check the meter and pipe sizing before recommending one. If you'd rather move away from gas, we can also quote on a heat pump. Whatever you pick, we handle the gas connection, water connections, tempering valve and compliance certificate.
Gas hot water in southern Eastern Suburbs homes
A lot of older homes in Maroubra, Matraville and Botany still run a gas storage tank beside the back door or along the side passage. Over time, the copper gas line and older fittings around those units can need attention, so we look at more than just the heater when we visit.
Newer duplexes and townhouses in Pagewood, Eastgardens and Kingsford often have a continuous flow unit high on an external wall. These are tidy and efficient, but they do need clear airflow around the flue and periodic servicing to keep them running reliably. For homes near the beach at Malabar or Little Bay, salt in the air can corrode outdoor casings and fittings, so a regular look-over is worthwhile.
Why locals call us about gas hot water
- Licensed gasfitters and plumbers (Lic. 398171C)
- Our office is in Matraville, in the heart of the area we cover
- Upfront options and a fixed price before any work
- Our workmanship is backed by a lifetime labour warranty
- Over 100 five-star Google reviews from local homes
Common questions
Why won't my gas hot water pilot stay lit?
The most common cause is a worn thermocouple, which tells the gas valve the pilot is burning. A dirty pilot jet or a draught can also blow it out. We can test and replace the faulty part.
Can I relight the pilot myself?
Many tanks have relighting instructions on a label near the controls, and following those is fine. If it won't stay lit, or you notice any gas smell, stop and call a licensed gasfitter.
What should I do if I smell gas near the heater?
Turn off the gas at the meter, open doors and windows, get everyone outside, and avoid switches or flames. Then call a licensed gasfitter. We can come and find the source.
Is gas continuous flow better than a gas tank?
It depends on your home. Continuous flow won't run out and takes up less space, while a storage tank can suit homes with a smaller gas supply. We'll look at your setup and recommend what fits.
Why is there soot around my hot water flue?
Soot usually means the burner isn't getting the right air-to-gas mix or the flue isn't venting properly. Switch the unit off and have it inspected before using it again.
Do I need a certificate for a new gas hot water system?
Yes. Gas work in NSW must be done by a licensed gasfitter and certified. We provide the compliance paperwork for every installation we carry out.
Can you swap my gas tank for continuous flow?
Often, yes. We'll check the gas meter, pipe sizing and where the unit can be mounted, then give you a fixed price for the changeover.
Head back to our hot water services, or see continuous flow hot water, gas fitting and hot water replacement. We work in Maroubra, Pagewood, Little Bay and Kingsford.
Want to know more first? Browse our free hot water system guide for a plain-English comparison of gas, electric and heat pump systems.