Rheem hot water repairs, servicing and replacement
Rheem systems are a familiar sight in Sydney laundries and side passages, and we see a lot of them. From our Matraville base, we repair, service and replace Rheem hot water systems for homeowners across the southern Eastern Suburbs. We'll check what's going on, lay out your choices and give you a fixed price before any work begins.
Rheem problems we often see
Electric storage not heating
On Rheem electric tanks, a cold or lukewarm supply usually comes down to the element or thermostat. We test both and replace whichever has failed.
Gas storage pilot or burner faults
A gas Rheem tank that won't stay lit, or lights and then drops out, may need a new thermocouple, a clean of the burner or a replacement gas control.
Continuous flow unit not firing
Rheem's instantaneous models can stop heating because of an ignition fault, a flow problem or low gas supply. If the controller shows a code, note it down for us.
Heat pump running but water stays cool
A Rheem heat pump that hums along without heating well may have an airflow, refrigeration or booster element issue. We'll diagnose it and talk you through the fix.
Repairing and servicing your Rheem system
Rheem makes several kinds of residential hot water units, including electric and gas storage tanks, gas continuous flow and heat pumps. Each has its own common wear parts, and we carry many of the general-fit components on our vans.
A service visit on a storage tank usually includes:
- Testing the temperature and pressure relief valve
- Inspecting the sacrificial anode and replacing it if it's worn down
- Checking the element and thermostat, or the burner and pilot on gas models
- Looking over the cold water valves and tempering valve
- Checking the tank and connections for early signs of leaks
Regular servicing doesn't make a tank last forever, but it can help you get more years out of it and catch small problems early. We repair, service and replace Rheem systems, and we work on most other brands too.
When a Rheem should be replaced
Once a storage tank starts leaking from the cylinder itself, it's done. The same goes for units where the cost of parts is creeping close to the value of a new heater. We'll give you an honest view rather than selling you a repair that won't last.
If you're replacing, you don't have to stay with the same type. You might stick with a Rheem tank of a similar size, or move to a heat pump or continuous flow unit if that better suits your household. We'll explain the trade-offs, measure the space and give you a fixed price that includes removal of the old unit and all compliance paperwork.
Rheem systems in southern Eastern Suburbs homes
In older brick homes around Matraville, Malabar and Botany, it's common to find a Rheem tank that has been swapped like-for-like more than once, still sitting on the original copper or galvanised pipes. When we replace these, we also check the nearby isolation valve, the relief valve drain and whether a tempering valve has been fitted, so the new unit is set up to current standards.
Units fitted outside in Maroubra, Coogee and Little Bay cop more salt air, which can speed up corrosion on casings, fittings and external controls. If you live close to the coast, a regular service is a sensible way to spot that wear before it causes a breakdown.
Before you call
- Find the label on the side of the unit and note the brand and type (electric, gas, continuous flow or heat pump).
- If there's a controller or display, write down any code it shows.
- Check the switchboard on an electric unit, or that the gas is on for a gas unit.
- Look for water pooling under or around the system.
- Smell gas near a gas Rheem? Shut it off at the meter, open the windows and doors, move everyone outdoors, avoid switches and flames, and ring a licensed gasfitter like us.
Why locals trust us with their Rheem
- Locally based in Matraville and working throughout the southern Eastern Suburbs
- 100-plus five-star Google reviews
- No-cost on-site quotes with a fixed price up front
- Lifetime labour warranty on the work we carry out
- Licensed plumbing and gasfitting team (Lic. 398171C)
Common questions
Do you repair all types of Rheem hot water systems?
We work on Rheem electric storage, gas storage, gas continuous flow and heat pump systems in homes. Tell us what you've got when you call and we'll come prepared.
How often should a Rheem storage tank be serviced?
A check-up every few years is a good habit, and more often if your water is hard or you live near the coast. The relief valve and anode are the key items to keep an eye on.
My Rheem tank is leaking from the bottom. Can it be fixed?
If the water is coming from the cylinder, unfortunately not. If it's from a valve or fitting, it can usually be repaired. We'll find the source and tell you which it is.
Is it worth repairing an older Rheem?
It depends on the fault and the age of the unit. A new element, thermostat or valve on a sound tank is often good value. We'll give you both options so you can decide.
Do I have to replace my Rheem with another Rheem?
No. You can choose a similar Rheem model or a different brand and type. We'll recommend options that suit your home and how much hot water you use.
Are you a Rheem warranty service provider?
No. We're an independent plumbing business that repairs, services and replaces Rheem systems. If your unit is still under the manufacturer's warranty, check with Rheem first about warranty claims.
What information helps you quote on a Rheem replacement?
A photo of the unit and its label, where it's located and how many people live in your home. We'll still visit to measure and confirm before giving you a fixed price.
Back to our hot water services, or read about hot water servicing, replacement and gas hot water. We look after Rheem owners in Coogee, Matraville, Eastgardens and Malabar.
Want to know more first? Take a look at our free guide to hot water systems before you choose your next unit.