What parts of a hot water install can an electrician do?

For electric storage or instantaneous electric systems, a licensed electrician in NSW can:

  • Install/upgrade the dedicated circuit from your switchboard (correct breaker size, cable gauge, RCD protection).
  • Fit a local lockable isolating switch adjacent to the unit (not on the appliance), per AS/NZS 3000.
  • Provide a compliant socket‑outlet or hard‑wire connection; label the circuit, and test earth fault loop, insulation resistance and RCD trip times.
  • Perform switchboard works if required (RCDs/RCBOs, capacity checks).

If it’s a like‑for‑like electrical swap with no plumbing changes, the electrician can typically complete the electrical scope the same day; plumbing remains a plumber’s job. Some restricted licences only allow limited replacements; circuit upgrades require a fully licensed electrician.

What parts must a plumber do?

  • Water connections (cold feed, hot outlet, PTR valve drain), tempering valve installation and setting, and any relief lines. NSW requires tempered water delivery for new or renovated residential installs.
  • Decommissioning/connecting storage tanks, relocating pipework, and any gas work (for gas heaters).

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems: who does what?

Heat pumps are electric appliances that also require plumbing. Roles typically split as:

  • Electrician: dedicated circuit, lockable isolator adjacent to the unit, RCD/RCBO, outdoor weatherproofing, compliance testing.
  • Plumber: set the heat pump/tank on the pad, connect water lines, tempering valve, condensate/relief drains.

Rebates: NSW offers discounts for eligible heat pump (or solar) upgrades. Verify current eligibility via NSW Climate & Energy Action.

Why use licensed trades (and avoid “cowboy” installs)

NSW regulators have flagged safety issues with poorly installed discounted heat pumps (e.g., unsafe wiring, overheated water). Choosing licensed trades with proper testing protects your family and keeps insurance valid.

Compliance checklist (Sydney / NSW)

  • Dedicated circuit sized to manufacturer specs; RCD/RCBO fitted.
  • Lockable isolating switch installed adjacent to the unit (not on it).
  • Correct IP rating for outdoor points/isolators; proper cable route and mechanical protection.
  • Circuit labelling at the switchboard; verification tests recorded.
  • Plumber installs/sets tempering valve and completes water pipework to PCA/NCC.

Typical scenarios

Electric storage tank replacement (same size/location)

Plumber swaps tank, valves & pipes; electrician checks/updates circuit, fits isolator, reconnects and tests.

Upgrade to heat pump

Usually two trades on the same day; electrician handles isolation switch + power, plumber handles hydraulic works & tempering valve.

Instantaneous electric unit

Higher current draw may require switchboard upgrade and new cabling; plumber connects water.

Costs & time (what drives them)

  • Electrical scope: cable run length, switchboard capacity/space, RCD upgrades, outdoor isolator location.
  • Plumbing scope: relocation distance, new pipework, valve set, drain routes, access.
  • Product choice: storage vs instantaneous vs heat pump; rebates may offset costs.

FAQs

Can an electrician install the entire hot water system?

For electric systems, an electrician can complete all electrical work. Any plumbing work (pipes/valves/drains) must be done by a licensed plumber.

Do I need an isolation switch on my water heater?

Yes. AS/NZS 3000 requires a lockable isolating switch adjacent to every fixed‑wired water heater/heat pump.

Do I need an RCD on the water heater circuit?

RCD protection is required for most final subcircuits ≤32 A; many electricians fit an RCBO on the dedicated water heater circuit.

Are tempering valves mandatory in NSW?

Tempering valves are required to deliver safe outlet temperatures in new or renovated residential installs. Your plumber handles this.

Can you help with rebates for heat pumps?

Yes, we can advise on eligibility and coordinate with your plumber. See NSW Climate & Energy Action for current programs.

Need help fast?

We wire, upgrade and certify the electrical side of your hot water system and coordinate a trusted Sydney plumber for pipework and tempering valve. One call, compliant install, hot water back on quickly, the right way.

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This guide reflects NSW rules and general standards at the time of writing. Always follow manufacturer instructions and current NSW regulatory advice.