Electric Hot Water Systems Melbourne

When your electric hot water system fails, you need a fast, reliable replacement — not a week-long wait. Zap Tech Energy supplies and installs electric hot water systems across Greater Melbourne, from standard storage tanks to instant (instantaneous) units, with the electrical work completed by a licensed electrician.

Storage vs Instant Electric Hot Water — Which Is Right for Your Home?

Our team helps you choose and install the right hot water system, whether storage or instant electric, based on your home’s needs.

Electric Storage Hot Water

A storage system heats a tank of water and keeps it hot for use throughout the day. Common sizes range from 50 litres (small household, single bathroom) to 400 litres (large family, multiple bathrooms).

Instantaneous (Instant) Electric Hot Water

An instantaneous system heats water on demand as it flows through the unit. There is no tank — water is heated only when a tap is turned on.

Unlimited hot water (no tank to run empty)
Compact size — wall-mounted, no floor space required
Energy is only used when hot water is drawn
Requires higher electrical capacity (may need a dedicated circuit or switchboard upgrade)
Available in single-phase and three-phase models

Storage vs Instant Electric Hot Water — Which Is Right for Your Home?

System Type	Typical Installed Cost	Best For
Electric storage 50L	$900–$1,400	Units, 1-person households
Electric storage 125L	$1,100–$1,700	1–2 person households
Electric storage 250L	$1,400–$2,200	3–4 person households
Electric storage 315L+	$1,700–$2,500	Large families, multiple bathrooms
Instant electric (single phase)	$1,200–$2,000	Small-medium households, space-constrained
Instant electric (three phase)	$1,500–$2,500	Larger households, multiple outlets

Prices include supply, installation, plumbing and electrical connections. Additional costs may apply if the switchboard needs upgrading to handle the load — Zap Tech Energy will identify this during the quoting process.

Request a Free Quote Online

Other Services

Why Choose Zap Tech Energy for Hot Water Replacement

Licensed electrician — REC 34973, all electrical connections handled by qualified tradespeople
Fast response — Zap Tech Energy aims to respond to hot water replacement enquiries on the same day
Clear, itemised quotes — pricing covers the new unit, installation, plumbing, electrical and any switchboard work
All major brands supplied — recommendations based on your requirements, budget and availability
Honest upgrade advice — if a heat pump makes financial sense for your situation, Zap Tech Energy will explain the comparison

Reviews From Melbourne Homeowners

    
 
 
      Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Team at Zap Tech are first class. From first contact with Daniel who was very informative and helped me to decide the optimal solar/battery system for my needs, to Josh and Joel who implemented the system professionally. The after sales support has been great, with the team responding promptly to my queries. The level of trust with these guys was higher than any experience I’ve had before, and was happy to also upgrade to a heat pump of Josh’s recommendation without questioning it. Highly recommend the team to anyone looking at a solar/battery system.
  
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   Dimitri Peries 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a 13kw system installed with a 30kw battery. It was really important to my husband and I to get quality so we wanted to go with a local company having read the horror stories about all the companies that are now so called solar installers. Our system is fantastic, the guys all did a fantastic job. They explained everything to us, helped us choose the right system for our location and needs. They were so professional, we couldn’t be happier with everyone at the company and can’t recommend them enough. They are a quality company and knowledgeable experts at everything solar. One thing that’s really stood out is the after care, when most just walk away Zaptech guys always respond to me. Daniel, Josh continuously answer my calls and get back to me when their busy. You get what you pay for and when you go cheap and cut corners you end up paying triple the amount for a system you’re not even happy with. Choose the best, choose Zaptech.
  
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   Courtney “Courtyp100” Powles 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ZAP Tech Energy were approached because they installed at a neighbour who seemed happy with everything. Our experience was with Josh who gave prompt responses, helpful and knowledgeable answers to questions. The follow up site inspect went very well and Daniel was thorough and again gave helpful and knowledgeable responses. The day of install, Joel and the guys turned up on time and got the job done over two days. They were considerate, polite and worked well. The site was left neat and tidy and a we were given a great explanation on how the system would work. Admin under Andi was thorough and responsive. These guys are well organised amd competitive. They are definitely worth considering.
  
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   William 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can’t recommend Zap Tech Energy highly enough. Right from the initial contact, through the quoting process, installation and commissioning I have been impressed. The installation was tricky but the Zap crew did a fantastic job and it looks great.
  
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   George Robinson 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had half an idea of PV and battery and found Josh and the team at Zaptech through a reliable source. They did a fantastic job from start to finish. The planning went well, consultation with us included. The install was professional and smooth, including a smooth commissioning. We’ve had almost zero grid cost since, including running an EV. Can recommend highly for your PV and battery needs.
  
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   Tom Huber 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had solar panels installed by Zap Tech Energy and could not be happier. From the quoting process to installation the team at Zap Tech were professional knowledgeable and transparent about the whole process and provided a competitive quote. The installation process was smooth.and it was clear they took pride in their workmanship and we are extremely happy with the final result. Overall we highly recommend Zap Tech Energy to anyone considering making the switch to Solar.
  
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   Sharyn Perkins 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience using Zaptech, always willing to answer questions about my requirements and options  for my home. Never badgering me to commit, and happy to wait for installation dates that suited me. Very impressed with their professionalism from the quote process through to the instal. Would definitely recommend them to anyone.
  
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   Stephen Fassioms 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Easy process from quote to install. Easy and straightforward overall and happy with the solar I ended up going with. Great communication, showed up on time and got the job done. Tidied up when the job was done and then helped me with how to use the system and set it up on my phone.
  
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   John 
 
 
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had Josh and his team install our solar panels (14kW) and battery (48kWh). Big job on a double storey home. The whole experience from inquiry to installation was magnificent. Josh's expertise is second to none. The installation team were incredible - timely, organised and did a great job of tidy up too. Faultless experience from a very professional small business. Thank you
  
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Highly Rated on

Zap Tech Energy has more than 60 customer reviews on SolarQuotes, where Victorian homeowners share feedback on communication, installation quality and after-sales support.

Should You Replace Like-for-Like or Upgrade?

If your old electric hot water system has failed, the simplest option is a like-for-like replacement — same type, similar size, same location. This is often the fastest and most affordable path.

However, if you are open to a more efficient alternative:

Heat pump hot water uses 65% less electricity than a standard electric tank and qualifies for significant Victorian rebates. For many Melbourne homes, a heat pump is only marginally more expensive than an electric replacement after rebates are applied. See the Heat Pump Hot Water page for details.
Solar hot water is not a service offered by Zap Tech Energy. If your current system is solar thermal (roof-mounted collectors), Zap Tech Energy can replace it with either a heat pump or electric system.

Zap Tech Energy will present all practical options and explain the cost, efficiency and rebate differences so you can make an informed decision.

Signs Your Electric Hot Water System Needs Replacing

No hot water — The most obvious sign. If the system is no longer heating, the element may have failed. For older units (10+ years), replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair.
Rusty or discoloured water — Indicates internal tank corrosion. Once the tank is corroding, replacement is the only long-term solution.
Leaking tank — A leaking tank cannot be repaired. Replace promptly to avoid water damage.
Age — Electric storage tanks typically last 8–12 years. If your unit is approaching or past this range, proactive replacement avoids an emergency failure.
Higher-than-expected electricity bills — Older units lose efficiency as elements degrade and insulation deteriorates.
Tempering valve issues — If water temperature fluctuates or is inconsistent, the tempering valve or thermostat may be failing.

Reducing Electric Hot Water System Running Costs

Off-peak tariff — Connect your electric storage tank to an off-peak or controlled load tariff. This heats water during cheaper overnight electricity rates, reducing running costs by 30–50%.
Timer + solar — If you have solar panels, a timer can shift heating to midday hours when solar production is highest, using free energy instead of grid power.
Right-size the tank — An oversized tank wastes energy keeping water hot that you never use. A 250L tank is sufficient for most 3–4 person Melbourne households.
Insulation — If your tank is in an exposed location (garage, outdoor), ensure the pipes and tank fittings are insulated to reduce heat loss.

Electric Hot Water Replacement
— How It Works

Adding a 7kW or 22kW load to your home’s electrical system is significant. Before installing an EV charger, Zap Tech Energy assesses:

# 1: Contact

Call Zap Tech Energy on 03 9404 0484 or enquire online. Describe your current system (brand, size, type if known) and the issue.

# 2: Assessment

Zap Tech Energy confirms system requirements, checks switchboard capacity and recommends a replacement unit.

# 3: Quote

A clear, itemised quote covering the new unit, installation, plumbing, electrical connections and any switchboard work.

# 4: Installation —

Licensed electrician (REC 34973) removes the old unit, installs the new system, connects plumbing and electrical, and tests operation. Most replacements are completed within a few hours.

# 5: Disposal

The old unit is removed from your property as part of the installation.

FAQ's

Electric Hot Water — Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an electric hot water system last?

Electric storage systems typically last 8–12 years. Lifespan depends on water quality, installation quality, anode rod maintenance and usage patterns. Hard water areas may see shorter tank life due to mineral buildup.

Can I switch from gas to electric hot water?

Yes. Zap Tech Energy regularly replaces gas hot water systems with electric (or heat pump) alternatives. The gas connection is capped, and new electrical and plumbing connections are installed. A switchboard assessment is required to confirm electrical capacity.

What size electric hot water system do I need?

As a guide: 1–2 people need 80–160L, 3–4 people need 250L, and 5+ people need 315L+. Actual requirements depend on water usage habits — if you have multiple bathrooms, a dishwasher and a washing machine running hot, size up.

Do you install Rheem, Rinnai and other major brands?

Zap Tech Energy installs electric hot water systems from all major Australian-market brands. The recommendation is based on your requirements, budget and availability.

Is there a rebate for electric hot water?

Standard electric storage systems do not attract government rebates. However, if you are replacing electric with a heat pump, significant rebates are available (STCs, VEU, Solar Victoria). Zap Tech Energy can advise on whether a heat pump makes financial sense for your situation.

How quickly can Zap Tech Energy replace my hot water system?

Zap Tech Energy aims to respond to hot water replacement enquiries on the same day. Installation is typically completed within 24–48 hours of confirming the quote, subject to stock availability.

Zap Tech Energy

Need an Electric Hot Water Replacement in Melbourne?

Call Zap Tech Energy on 03 9404 0484 or submit an online enquiry. Fast response, clear pricing, licensed electrician.

Electric Hot Water Systems Melbourne

Storage vs Instant Electric Hot Water — Which Is Right for Your Home?

Storage vs Instant Electric Hot Water — Which Is Right for Your Home?

Request a Free Quote Online

Other Services

Why Choose Zap Tech Energy for Hot Water Replacement

Reviews From Melbourne Homeowners

Highly Rated on

Should You Replace Like-for-Like or Upgrade?

Signs Your Electric Hot Water System Needs Replacing

Reducing Electric Hot Water System Running Costs

Electric Hot Water Replacement — How It Works

FAQ's

Electric Hot Water — Frequently Asked Questions

Zap Tech Energy

Need an Electric Hot Water Replacement in Melbourne?

Electric Hot Water Replacement
— How It Works