Genuine job case study · A1 Plumbing Co
Wishart, Brisbane · Job completed August 2026
Job details supplied by Josh Nielsen. Prepared for A1 Plumbing Co with AI-assisted editing.
Updated
Published
Replacing a failed heat pump with a Rheem 315L hot-water system in Wishart
A Wishart homeowner woke up with no hot water and found that the hot-water circuit breaker kept tripping. Our assessment identified corrosion and a leak around the old heat pump’s heat-exchanger housing, with water reaching electrical components.
After discussing replacement options, the customer approved a Rheem 315L electric storage water heater. We completed the plumbing installation and coordinated an electrician for the electrical work.
What we found
The existing unit was a Chromagen integrated 280L heat-pump water heater. Corrosion and failure around the heat-exchanger housing had allowed water to leak onto electrical components. Following the fault investigation, we determined that the failed assembly could not be repaired and recommended replacing the system.
This was more than a loss of hot water: the leaking system also required attention to its electrical connections. We arranged an electrician as part of the replacement work.
Explaining the options before starting
We discussed replacement systems from different brands and the option of changing to solar hot water. Our recommendation was a Rheem 315L electric storage system, based on its suitability for the household’s hot-water needs, our experience with the product and the manufacturer’s warranty cover.
The customer chose this option and approved the work before installation began. This was a recommendation for this particular home; the appropriate system for another household may differ.
The replacement installation
We removed the old unit, redundant pipework and valve sets. The new installation included:
- A Rheem 315L electric storage water heater.
- A new ripple slab base.
- Replacement valves, fittings and pipework.
- A drain line and pipe insulation.
The electrician completed the electrical connections, upgraded the circuit breaker and added an electrical isolation switch.
The accompanying video shows stages of fitting the new unit’s pipework, valves and insulation, followed by a view of the installed system.
Checking the completed work
Before handover, we flushed the system, bled air from the pipework and checked for leaks. Electrical and heating checks were also completed as part of commissioning.
The result was an installed and commissioned replacement system, with the plumbing and electrical work coordinated as part of the job.
Understanding the manufacturer’s warranty
The manufactured water heater carries its own manufacturer warranty. The warranty documents supplied with the installed unit set out the applicable cover and conditions, including any differences between cylinder, component and labour cover.
See Rheem’s 315L electric water-heater information and manufacturer warranty guidance. The installed unit’s documents govern its cover.
Considering a different system? Read our guide to choosing heat-pump hot water for your home.
Need a hot-water assessment in Wishart?
We provide plumbing services in Wishart, including hot-water repairs and replacement. We assess the issue, explain your options and provide an upfront fixed-price quote for the agreed work before starting. Additional paid investigation is explained and quoted separately for approval.
A request is an enquiry. We contact you to discuss availability and confirm your appointment separately.