Hot water system regulations in Western Australia
Concerning hot water systems, Perth residents should know that there are strict installation regulations in place. These regulations are the WA and federal state’s responsibility to ensure that all water heating systems meet specific safety standards.
Before any work on a water system, a licensed contractor must inspect the property to ensure compliance. The contractor will make necessary repairs if any issues are found before beginning work. So, whether you’re in the market for a new hot water system or need some repairs carried out, make sure to consult a qualified system installer.
They will be able to help you understand the installation regulations in place and guide you through the process of getting your water system up and running safely and efficiently.
Can a water heater be dangerous?
It very well could depend on how old it is, how well it was installed and how often you service it. This video is an old one, but the US show Mythbusters experimented out of it
The WA government made this announcement on the topic a few years ago.
Water heaters can be dangerous and create issues for a variety of reasons.
- Improper installation – A water heater that is not installed correctly can cause an explosion. This includes using the wrong brackets, not tightening the screws properly, and using an improper sealant.
- Corrosion – If a water heater has been exposed to corrosion, it could break down and create an explosive mixture.
- Pressure – The tank will eventually leak and could explode if too much pressure builds up in it.
- Sediment Build-up – Sediment (minerals from your hard water) accumulates in the bottom of your water heater’s reservoir over time. The water is forced to run longer to heat up due to the insulating effect of this mineral layer, which causes it to overheat and deteriorate.
What are the regulations surrounding such systems in Perth?
Ensure you understand and follow these guidelines to avoid fines or penalties. If you need help installing your own water system, contact a professional licensed plumbing contractor.
Note: You’ll need to hire a certified plumber to install your water heaters if you’re installing a gas or solar hot water system with a gas booster. In places where natural gas is accessible, the federal government has attempted to phase out electrical hot water systems for years, so check with your supplier before buying one.
Low Emission Water Heater
If you want to install a new system, it is essential to consider installing a low-emission water heater. Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but electric heaters are the most common type of emissions from hot water systems.
To ensure that your hot water system doesn’t create emissions, you must also comply with gas safety regulations and other environmental guidelines. By doing so, you will be taking care of the environment and ensuring that your family is safe from potential health risks caused by polluted air and water.
Only a licensed plumbing contractor should install your hot water heater to ensure that the installed system meets the local water heater and emission standards. If a professional plumber doesn’t install a product, most manufacturers won’t cover the terms of your warranty!
Temperature and Flow Regulations
To protect consumers, hot water systems must have an automatic shut-off valve. The water inside the water tank should not drop below 60 degrees Celsius. It is vital to ensure that all bacteria are killed.
The water exiting the system cannot be hotter than 50 degrees Celsius, and this is to prevent scalding injuries. Thankfully, most water systems can deliver water at a temperature of up to 50 degrees Celsius – so even extreme WA heat won’t cause any problems!
Building Classifications
When installing a hot water system, you first need to determine which classification the water supply falls under. This is typically determined by its use – domestic or commercial/industrial.
Class 1 A, Class 1 B, and Class 2 are the three types of buildings that the rules classify. A single or attached dwelling, such as a townhouse, rowhouse, or single-storey flat, is referred to as the first. Boarding houses, guesthouses, and hospitals with fewer than 12 beds are referred to as the second class. Multi-storey structures with single occupancy apartments are referred to as the third type.
Energy efficiency ratings
Under the government’s MEPS program, all systems are subjected to energy efficiency ratings. The more stars there are, the better the system performs at its intended task. The star rating only applies to the booster in solar hot water systems.
WaterMark certification
WaterMark certification is a great way to ensure that your hot water system meets all safety standards in your state and is up to date with the latest technology. The installation must also meet specific regulations, such as working within a certain noise level.
All systems installed in Perth must be certified by WaterMark, so always speak to a qualified contractor when considering installing or upgrading one in your home!
To ensure that plumbing and drainage goods are suited for use and appropriately licensed for usage in plumbing and drainage installations, the WaterMark Certification Scheme is a compulsory national program.
Our recommendations
For instructions on how to deal with your water system, always make sure you check your owner’s manual. The following are some frequent maintenance tips from our team:
- The expansion control valve and the temperature pressure relief valve on the unit’s exterior should be opened and closed gently every 6 months.
- Every year, verify that your water heater unit’s built-in temperature controls are correctly functioning by ensuring that the water from the closest tap is not too hot.
- Every 5 years, consider replacing the valves that regulate expansion, temperature, and pressure using the services of a licensed plumbing contractor in Perth. It may need to be done more often in hard water regions like WA.
- Arrange for a trained and licensed individual to replace the anode of your water tank every 5 to 10 years to help minimize corrosion.
- Before using any electrical devices linked to your system, turn on a hot tap and check that the water flows freely (not spurting) when you return after a week or more away.
Conclusion
Understanding water system installation regulations in Perth can be daunting; however, following the guidelines outlined in this blog can help you safely and efficiently install your water system. By doing so, you will not only meet the regulatory requirements, but you will also ensure a smooth installation process for you and your residents.
