If you want to know how to improve the water pressure in your shower, you must first determine why it’s low. The problem could be blocked pipes, faulty Ajax valves, or an issue with your water pump. However, if your house predates 1990, it could also be because your tank is not a mains-pressure hot water cylinder.

To turn down the hot water cylinder temperature, switch off the water heater power at the circuit breaker. Locate and remove the thermostat access panel using a screwdriver. Peel back the insulation and adjust the thermostat with a flathead screwdriver. But don’t go below 62 degrees because you need to sanitise and kill legionnaires disease.

Several factors determine how much it costs to replace your hot water cylinder. Your tank must be matched and sized to suit the household or business. A standard three-bedroom home with four occupants requires at least a 180-litre cylinder. Here, the cost to supply and install like-for-like systems starts from $1,800.00, and mains pressure conversions range from $2,200.00 to $3,000.00 or more. Every home has unique requirements.

This is most likely from a faulty pressure-reducing valve (PRV). It may require servicing or a replacement pressure relief valve if it is older than three years. The problem may also indicate a faulty hot water cylinder electrical thermostat.

This indicates a problem with your cold water expansion valve (CWE). Some models require a replacement cartridge, whereas some need a new valve. The issue could indicate a faulty relief valve if the wastewater is warm or hot.

A heat pump hot water system is currently the most energy-efficient heating solution for your home or business in Tauranga. Also called air-to-water heat pump systems, these units can save you up to 75% on your water heating bill. However, solar hot water and gas water heaters also provide cost-saving benefits. In addition, a gas califont is cheaper in terms of up-front costs.

Good quality gas califonts like Rinnai Infinity rarely have problems until they are at least 14 years old. When they do finally start playing up, there can be a myriad of potential causes to sort through, beginning with:

• Usually, earthing problems occur when water gets inside due to rust holes in the enclosure.
• The old Infinity controllers also cause problems. It is best to uninstall them when they are over 14 years old. 
• Incorrect gas burner pressures cause the PGFR valve to wear prematurely. 
• Power supply switches 230V to the Infinity get water in them, causing earth fault.
• Integral water filter can clog up.
• The plumbing valve PLV can clog up, causing water flow rate problems. 
• Incorrect gas supply pressures.

Temperature fluctuations with excessively hot or warm water only indicate a tempering valve problem. A replacement valve is likely required. The thermostat may also have an electrical problem, which can fail in the on position.

The problem could be plumbing or electrical. If you have no hot water, put your hand on top of the hot water cylinder connection to see if it is cold. If it is, then this is an electrical issue. If not, you know who to call – Tauranga’s hot water plumbing specialist.

Costs can vary due to labour input but range from approximately $200.00 to approximately $400.00. Different models have different components, so contact Hot Water Guy directly for a better evaluation.

Leaking valves or Crox connections are self-evident; old leaks typically have white calcium left on the pipe. If a valve leaks, a replacement is required, and if it’s a fitting, repacking the join will sort out the problem. Sometimes, the fittings have cracked, so they need replacement. A leak may also be coming from the hot water cylinder exhaust flashing.